The Mariners Have Cut Me Off: Embracing Change and New Opportunities

In the world of sports media, change is inevitable. Sometimes, it feels like a door closes just as another one opens, guiding us toward new paths. Recently, I received news that the Seattle Mariners have decided to cut off my media credentials. This decision has led me to reflect on my journey and the opportunities that lie ahead, and I want to share my story with you all.

A Journey Begins

My journey into the realm of sports media began three and a half years ago, in December 2021, when I uploaded my first video about the Seattle Mariners. It was a humble start, focusing on a specific trade that had just occurred. Little did I know that this video would be the spark that ignited my passion for covering the Mariners and would eventually lead to incredible opportunities.

Having grown up two and a half hours south of Seattle and being a graduate of Washington State University with a double major in finance and marketing, I found myself combining my love for sports with my professional background. After college, I dove into the world of mortgage lending and have spent the last nine years helping people finance their homes. However, my passion for baseball and sports media was something I pursued on the side, a hobby that grew into something much larger.

Building Connections

As I continued to create content, I reached out to the right people on social media. Through persistence and a bit of luck, I was able to secure media credentials through Major League Baseball, thanks in part to the Seattle Mariners. This access allowed me to get up close and personal with the players, interviewing them on the sidelines and sharing their stories with my audience. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities the Mariners organization provided me during this time.

Every trip to Seattle, every video I created, was an investment in my brand. I funded these endeavors out of my own pocket, driven by a passion for the game and the desire to connect with fellow fans. As my channel grew, I began incorporating mortgage ads into my sports videos, targeting sports fans and athletes who might need my services. It was a unique approach, blending my two worlds and allowing me to help others while pursuing my passion.

Transitioning to a New Phase

However, as my brand continued to grow and as life has happened along the way, there've been some changes. Access to players seemed more restricted, and I found myself unable to connect with them as much as I would have hoped while also not being able to commute to Seattle as often. This shift in access prompted me to reevaluate my approach and future intentions. I realized that I wanted to conduct more in-depth interviews with players, exploring who they are beyond the field and discussing topics that resonate with them personally. This format of interview couldn't be done on a sideline, and needed to be ~30-45 min+ in length to expand on topics and their story. 

I made the tough decision to be upfront with my media contact at the Mariners about my long-term goals. I expressed that I wanted to help players with their mortgage financing needs, aiming to become the go-to lender for athletes and sports fans alike. Unfortunately, this transparency led to the Mariners deciding to revoke my media credentials, citing concerns of a conflict of interest and that my goals moving forward do not fall in line with what it means to be a member of the media.

Finding Silver Linings

As you might imagine, initially this was a tough change to process, a door closing on an incredible opportunity that I had cherished. Yet, I realized that this change will open up new avenues for my business and brand. Instead of being restricted to the sidelines, I can now create content from my home office, unrestricted by the need for permission to interview players. This newfound freedom allows me to reach out directly to players and conduct interviews on my terms, focusing on topics that matter to them.

While I will miss the excitement of being on the field and the immediate interaction with players, my passion for the Mariners and baseball remains unchanged. I am committed to continuing my coverage of the team and creating unique content that showcases the players in a new light. This pivot is not about losing access; it’s about embracing new opportunities and focusing more on my ability to help sports fans and athletes in the ways I know best.

Advice for Navigating Change

For anyone facing a difficult decision or contemplating a significant change, I want to share some insights I've gained from this experience. It's essential to recognize that sometimes, the most challenging decisions can lead to the most rewarding outcomes. Here are a few key takeaways:

• Be Honest with Yourself: Understanding your long-term goals and aspirations is crucial. Don't shy away from expressing those goals, even if it means risking what you currently have.
• Embrace Change: Change can be intimidating, but it often leads to growth and new opportunities. Don't be afraid to pivot and explore different paths.
• Build Your Own Lane: Create a space that reflects your passions and interests. Your journey is unique, and it's essential to carve out your path.
• Value Relationships: The connections you make along the way are invaluable. Cherish those relationships and stay connected with your network.

Looking Ahead

As I move forward, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I will continue to cover the Mariners passionately, but now I can also expand my focus to include interviews and content that delve deeper into the lives of the players as well as assisting them with their mortgage financing. This shift allows me to engage with the fanbase on a more personal level, sharing stories that resonate with both fans and athletes alike.

Moreover, I remain committed to helping sports fans and athletes with their mortgage financing needs. Being licensed in Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, and Arizona, I aim to assist players in purchasing homes not just in Seattle but also in their hometowns, wherever that may be. My goal is to build trust and provide valuable insights into the home financing process, ensuring that my clients feel supported every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while the Mariners cutting off my media credentials may seem like a setback to some, it is a necessary step in my journey. It allows me to pivot and explore new opportunities, ultimately leading to greater growth for my brand and business. I am grateful for the experiences I've had thus far and look forward to what the future holds.

To all my supporters, whether you've been with me from the beginning or are new to the channel, thank you for your encouragement and engagement. Your support fuels my passion for baseball and motivates me to continue creating content that resonates with you.

If you or someone you know is looking to buy, sell, or refinance a home, please feel free to reach out to me, Connor Webb, The Couch GM. I would be more than happy to connect and help you navigate the mortgage process.

Remember, don’t be afraid to walk away from something good to chase something great. Embrace change, and let it lead you to new horizons.