Episode 19: Tyson Ross

Show Notes

From the Clubhouse to the Community: A Conversation with Tyson Ross Starting a new job is always a challenge. New faces, new routines, new dynamics. Now, imagine that job is with a professional sports team. The stakes are higher, the environment is intense, and the “office” includes elite athletes and coaches with their own tight-knit cultures. That was my reality in 2013 when I joined the San Diego Padres front office. What made the transition easier? Players like Tyson Ross. In the latest episode of the podcast, I sat down with Tyson—former Padres pitcher, current LA Dodgers front office member, and all-around incredible human—to reminisce about those early days, talk about the evolution of the game, and discuss how he’s giving back to his community now that his playing days are over. A Warm Welcome into the Padres Family When I first joined the Padres, I spent six weeks at spring training in Peoria, Arizona, getting to know the players and learning the ins and outs of the clubhouse. It was an intimidating experience—walking into a big-league locker room, tasked with helping reshape the team’s brand and culture, all while trying not to step on any toes. Tyson, along with guys like Andrew Cashner, Yonder Alonso, and Will Venable, didn’t just tolerate the new “front office guy”—they embraced me. They taught me what mattered to players, what the organization could do better, and most importantly, they helped me understand how to build authentic relationships between players, fans, and the franchise. Tyson recalled that moment when I was asked to introduce myself to the team. I mentioned my past as an on-air personality, and someone (I still can’t remember who) shouted out, “What was your on-air name?” When I sheepishly responded with “The Big Bamboo,” the nickname stuck instantly. It broke the ice and set the tone for the relationships that would follow. Building a Better Padres Experience The early 2010s were a transformative time for the Padres. New ownership wanted to invest in the fan experience and the team’s culture before making the big-ticket player acquisitions. I remember Ron Fowler telling me, “We don’t want to invite people to our house unless the house is ready for the show.” This approach wasn’t just about adding flashy scoreboards or promotions—it was about creating a sense of pride and belonging for players, staff, and fans alike. Tyson saw that shift from the player’s perspective and appreciated how the front office was actively working to understand and support the guys in the clubhouse. The Bonds That Baseball Builds One of the most memorable moments Tyson shared was about his younger brother Joe Ross, who also made it to the big leagues. Tyson told the story of getting traded to the Padres in 2012 while living with Joe during the offseason. One morning, Tyson got a call from then-GM Josh Byrnes, welcoming him to the Padres and telling him to break the news to his brother. “Hey, we’re teammates now,” Tyson told Joe. Though they never got to play together in the majors, the bond they shared through the game was special. Tyson even recalled the surreal experience of pitching for the Padres one night, then flying across the country the next morning to watch Joe make his MLB debut with the Nationals. Moments like that underscore how deeply personal baseball can be. It’s more than a game—it’s about family, community, and the connections built along the way. Giving Back Through “Loyal to My Soil” Since retiring, Tyson has focused on giving back to his hometown in the Bay Area. During the pandemic, he founded “Loyal to My Soil,” a nonprofit that hosts free baseball and softball camps, donates equipment, and provides educational workshops for kids. “We just want to grow the game and build community through sport,” Tyson explained. What started as a small initiative has grown into a series of camps that serve hundreds of kids annually. Tyson brings in current and former players, partners with local college teams, and focuses on making the game fun and accessible. It’s all about giving kids the kind of opportunities and experiences that inspired him as a young player. One story that stuck with me was Tyson’s memory of attending a baseball camp as a kid, where Eric Chavez’s brother gave him a pair of batting gloves. That small gesture made a huge impact on him—and years later, Tyson passed those gloves along to a young fan who had missed out on catching a foul ball at an A’s game. It’s a beautiful example of how a seemingly small act can have a lasting ripple effect. Lessons from the Game Throughout the conversation, Tyson reflected on the life lessons baseball taught him—lessons he now passes on to the next generation. The biggest one? Never underestimate the impact of small gestures and acts of kindness. “Whether it’s holding the door open or giving someone a thoughtful gift, you never know what that moment could mean to someone,” Tyson shared. It’s a philosophy that applies both on and off the field. Baseball is a game built on daily routines, quiet moments, and a relentless grind. It’s also a game that, at its best, brings people together—whether it’s players in the clubhouse, fans in the stands, or a kid at a community camp learning how to throw a curveball for the first time. The Power of Relationships This episode was a reminder of why I love this game. It’s not just about the wins and losses—it’s about the people. From spring training bonds to community programs, the relationships we build along the way are what make sports truly special. Tyson’s story is a perfect example of that. He’s someone who used his platform not just to succeed on the mound, but to make a positive impact far beyond the ballpark. So, what’s the takeaway? Care. Care about the people you work with. Care about your community. And when you have the chance to give back, even in small ways, do it.