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Florida BaseballBiz
West Tampa Baseball, Music & Faith with Mike Baluja
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Mark Corbett
- Mark welcomes guest Mike Baluja, who Mark calls, Mr. West Tampa”
- Baluja businessman, songwriter, and baseball historian.
- Conversation centers on the Little League World Series and the rich baseball history of West Tampa.
- The Alessi Bakers baseball team & Joe Magadan
- The rise and changes of West Tampa Little League since the 1960s.
- Community roots in immigrant cigar families and neighborhood culture.
- Legendary players from the area, including Lou Piniella, Tony La Russa, Tino Martinez, Luis Gonzalez, David Mgadan, and more.
- Ricky Alfonso (“The Cat”) won 3 championships at Tampa Catholic High School - rained out in 1 championshiop
- How adversity in baseball has made Mike find new ways to work effectively
- Discussion on community bonds through baseball – from families in the stands to generational connections.
- Mike shares stories about his grandson Julian’s baseball journey, including playing in Batavia and transitioning into coaching.
- Conversation shifts to Mike’s songwriting career, his reflections on Tampa, and how he weaves faith and community into his music.
- Closing thoughts on how baseball, family, and faith intertwine to shape lasting memories and future opportunities.
Mike Baluja's music can be found on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDd6iuGXDYGuVntiu-joe6g
You can find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark at baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com