Two Paths, One Field: Malik Abdul and Taj Bates (Ep. 81)

One Month In: Resetting the 2026 MLB Season (Ep. 84)

In episode 84 of the Playoff Push Podcast, host Jack Dobbins returned from a hiatus to recap MLB's first month and a half of the season. He highlighted the Atlanta Braves' remarkable performance, leading MLB in batting average and ERA despite early season injuries to key players. Other notable discussions included the Pittsburgh Pirates' unexpected success, the Tampa Bay Rays' strong recent streak, and the New York Yankees' home run leadership. Jack also updated his division predictions, with the Yankees taking the AL East, Cleveland Guardians winning the AL Central, Seattle in the AL West, Atlanta Braves in the NL East, Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central, and Dodgers in the NL West. Follow the show on Instagram @playoffpushpod, TikTok @playoffpushpod, and subscribe on YouTube at Playoff Push Podcast. If you’re enjoying the interviews, leave a rating and share the episode, it helps the podcast grow.

Building the Board: Our 2026 NFL Draft with Cayden Stewart (Ep. 83)

On Episode 83 of the Playoff Push Podcast, Jack Dobbins is joined by first ever five-time guest Cayden Stewart for a full breakdown of the 2026 NFL Draft. Together, the two go pick-by-pick through their own mock drafts, debating and explaining each selection in the top 10. They also highlight key prospects, potential trades, and team fits across the board, offering high-level analysis and differing perspectives throughout. A detailed, back-and-forth look at the 2026 NFL Draft from both sides of the table. Be sure to check out Cayden's work at Cadestarters.com [http://Cadestarters.com]. Follow the show on Instagram @playoffpushpod, TikTok @playoffpushpod, and subscribe on YouTube at Playoff Push Podcast. If you’re enjoying the interviews, leave a rating and share the episode, it helps the podcast grow.

Across Leagues and Continents: Jay Jackson (Ep. 82)

On Episode 82 of the Playoff Push Podcast, Jack Dobbins is joined by Jay Jackson to discuss a career that took him across multiple levels of professional baseball. Jackson reflects on his long path to the major leagues and his dominant tenure playing in Japan, where he established himself as a high-level pitcher. He also shares stories from the many cities he played in around the world, his transition into coaching with the West Virginia Black Bears, including leading them to a 2025 Draft League championship, and the creation of his app following his playing career. A wide-ranging conversation about perseverance, global experiences, and life after the game. Check out the S.M.I.L.E Zone at www.the-smile-zone.com [http://www.the-smile-zone.com] Follow the show on Instagram @playoffpushpod, TikTok @playoffpushpod, and subscribe on YouTube at Playoff Push Podcast. If you’re enjoying the interviews, leave a rating and share the episode, it helps the podcast grow.

Two Paths, One Field: Malik Abdul and Taj Bates (Ep. 81)

On Episode 81 of the Playoff Push Podcast, Jack Dobbins is joined by Taj Bates and Malik Abdul for a conversation about two very different paths through the game of baseball. Bates reflects on growing up in the Virgin Islands, developing into a versatile player, and building a standout college career. Abdul discusses his physical development, navigating injuries throughout his college career, and the resilience required to keep progressing. Together, they share experiences playing alongside each other at Southern, facing off in the Draft League, and what it’s like to compete with players who understand the same grind. Follow the show on Instagram @playoffpushpod, TikTok @playoffpushpod, and subscribe on YouTube at Playoff Push Podcast. If you’re enjoying the interviews, leave a rating and share the episode, it helps the podcast grow.

Jace Miner and the Reality of the College Baseball Journey (Ep. 80)

On Episode 80 of the Playoff Push Podcast, Jack Dobbins is joined by Jace Miner to discuss a baseball journey that has taken plenty of turns. Miner reflects on moving between Texas and Pennsylvania, playing four sports in high school, and rising as a highly recruited prospect. The conversation follows his college path from Wichita State to Oklahoma and back again, along with the challenges that come with transferring and adjusting at each stop. Miner also shares stories from playing alongside pro talent like Payton Tolle, his time with the Frederick Keys in the MLB Draft League, and even his early introduction to the game through blast ball. Follow the show on Instagram @playoffpushpod, TikTok @playoffpushpod, and subscribe on YouTube at Playoff Push Podcast. If you’re enjoying the interviews, leave a rating and share the episode, it helps the podcast grow.