What does it take to go from a baseball-less high school in Montana to the bright lights of Major League Baseball? In this episode, Jeff Ballard shares his incredible journey, from choosing Stanford over a draft offer, to starring alongside future legends like Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire on Team USA, to carving out his place in the Orioles rotation.

We dive into his breakout 1989 season (18 wins, Cy Young votes), what clicked that year, and the reality of sustaining success at the Major League level. Jeff also reflects on facing elite hitters like Don Mattingly, turning a triple play, and learning from managers like Cal Ripken Sr., Frank Robinson, and Jim Leyland.

Plus, life after baseball, a geophysics degree, and a rapid-fire “Binge Burner” round featuring some of the biggest names of his era.

00:00 Intro

00:28 Favo ...