🏆 How to get a job in MLB

A Dynamic Career in Baseball

Ben’s journey in sports began with a dream of joining ESPN’s Sportscenter. However, a pivotal internship with the Lowell Spinners shifted his focus to baseball operations, specifically scouting and player development. His career progressed through various positions with Bill James’ Baseball Info Solutions, the Arizona Fall League, and the New York Mets.

During his tenure at the MLB from 2009 to 2015, Ben served in the Commissioner's Office, rising to Senior Director of Baseball Development. His responsibilities included managing transactions, rules, contracts, and drafts, overseeing MLB Urban Youth Academies, creating programs like the Breakthrough Series instructional showcase program, and coordinating events like the All-Star Futures Game and World Baseball Classic. For nine years, Ben has worked for the Texas Rangers, overseeing player and staff programs focusing on career development, leadership, mental health, education, and organizational culture. He has been instrumental in launching the Rangers University education program and managing various facets of baseball operations, including salary arbitration, contract negotiations, and scouting assignments.

Ben’s diverse experiences in MLB and team operations have provided him with unique perspectives, and his time at MLB focused on the sport’s growth, fan engagement, compliance, and rule enforcement at a macro level. In contrast, his work in team operations centers on gaining competitive advantages, daily performance analysis, and supporting player excellence, all aimed at achieving the ultimate goal of winning championships.

Mental Health & Fostering Leadership

Ben emphasizes the importance of education, awareness, and accessibility in addressing mental health within the Texas Rangers organization. Destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting proactive well-being practices are foundational. The Rangers employ a staff that includes mental health professionals, mental performance coaches, and personal development staff to support individuals in establishing a solid personal foundation. This approach aims to intersect well-being and high performance, fostering an environment where individuals can flourish.

Ben stresses the importance of self-identity and self-evaluation in developing leadership skills among players and staff. Knowing one’s strengths and areas for improvement enables genuine and authentic leadership. The organization offers various programs, resources, and opportunities for continuous growth in these areas.

Overcoming Challenges & Definition of Success

Ben’s career trajectory has been shaped by numerous challenges that tested his resilience. Early in his career, he faced many rejections and setbacks, encountering numerous "no’s" before securing roles that propelled him into professional baseball. Despite initial setbacks, Ben’s perseverance and willingness to take on diverse roles led to significant advancements in baseball operations. His career progression was characterized by moving across different departments and assuming increasing responsibilities, demonstrating humility, curiosity, and meticulous decision-making in each transition. Ben’s ability to learn outside his primary domain and contribute proactively to various projects enabled him to showcase additional skills and seize opportunities as they arose.

Ben’s definition of success goes beyond titles and salaries—it's rooted in qualities like humility, empathy, and integrity. He noted, "if you can check those items, at the end of the day, the score will take care of itself." His leadership style, marked by a growth mindset, a focus on practical solutions, and attention to detail, sets a standard for sustainability and effectiveness in his roles. These traits shape Ben's approach and foster a culture within the organization that breeds success naturally.

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