Episode 36: Built By Baseball: Success, Setbacks, and Starting Again Ft. Zak Blair

In this episode, I sit down with Coach Zak Blair — former All-American player, professional baseball player, college coach, scout, and now the owner of B2 Baseball and B2 Fastpitch in Ohio.

Zak’s journey through the game is one built on performance, resilience, and purpose. From growing up in Jefferson, Ohio, to earning Under Armour All-American honors in high school, he went on to compete at the Division I level at Winthrop before transferring to Mercyhurst, where he put together a record-breaking season and earned All-American recognition. His summer in the Cape Cod League further cemented his reputation, as he became an All-Star, the only Division II starter in the All-Star Game, and the recipient of the Daniel Silva Sportsmanship Award.

We talk through his path from college standout to being drafted by the Chicago Cubs, the lessons he learned in professional baseball, and how his experiences in scouting and college coaching helped shape the philosophy he brings into player development today.

Zak also shares the vision behind B2 Baseball and B2 Fastpitch, what separates the organization from others, how he develops both the physical and mental side of athletes, and what players and parents often misunderstand about recruiting.

This episode is full of insight for players, coaches, and parents who care about long-term development, doing things the right way, and building something that lasts.

Interested in the B2 Bulls? Check it out here: https://b2baseball.com/