Chasing David MacKinnon: The Grit, Grind, and Global Game

In this episode of Talent Chasing, Chad, Jasper, and Brian sit down with David MacKinnon, whose unlikely path from 32nd-round draft pick to Major League Baseball is a masterclass in grit, growth, and global perspective. David opens up about life in the minors, the mental grind behind the game, and how reworking his swing changed everything. He shares how family support and relentless adaptation kept him going through injuries, setbacks, and overseas transitions. The conversation dives into David’s time playing in Japan, comparing cultural differences, clubhouse dynamics, and the high expectations placed on foreign players. The crew also chats about coaching ambitions, the future of baseball across continents, and even quirks like smoking in locker rooms. It’s an honest, insightful look at the human side of professional baseball—from dugouts in the U.S. to diamonds in Asia.