Meet Bobby Basham

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bobby Basham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bobby, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
A lot of people think training baseball players is as simple as tossing some balls, running a few drills, and calling it a day. What they might not realize is that while starting a training program is easy, doing it well is incredibly challenging. At Union Baseball Systems, we lean heavily on science and cutting-edge technology to analyze performance and guide development. Tools like motion capture, bat sensors, and high-speed cameras are integral to what we do, but the tech alone isn’t enough.

The real work comes in translating all that data into actionable changes for our athletes. It takes a deep understanding of biomechanics, psychology, and the game itself to make meaningful progress. Add in the fact that every athlete is unique, and you quickly realize there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a meticulous process, but when you see those improvements—whether it’s a sharper swing, increased velocity, or a kid gaining confidence—it makes all the effort worth it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been a journey shaped by my love for baseball, a willingness to take risks, and a desire to help others reach their potential. I started as a player in the Reds and Padres organizations, which gave me firsthand experience in the grind and dedication it takes to succeed in this game. After my playing days, I found my way to Northwestern’s business school and then transitioned to the corporate world. While I gained invaluable skills there, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I missed being involved in baseball.

That led me to a 12-year career in the Chicago Cubs front office, where I worked in various roles, including as the Director of Player Development. Managing the Cubs’ minor league system gave me incredible insight into building a player development pipeline and helping athletes turn potential into performance. During the pandemic, my wife and I made the decision to move to San Diego to be closer to her family, and that’s when the idea for Union Baseball Systems really took shape.

Union Baseball is designed to be the player development system for kids in San Diego who are striving to become elite baseball players. What sets us apart is our commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with a holistic approach to development. We’re not just about numbers and metrics; we focus on creating individualized plans that combine physical, mental, and technical growth for every athlete.

Was it easy?
Absolutely not. Transitioning from playing to business, back to baseball, and then starting a company came with plenty of challenges. Building Union Baseball from the ground up was no exception. There were moments of doubt, countless late nights, and the constant pressure to deliver results. But I’ve learned that perseverance, collaboration, and staying true to your mission can overcome almost anything.

What am I most proud of?
I’m most proud of the culture we’ve built at Union Baseball. It’s a place where kids feel supported, challenged, and inspired to chase their dreams. Watching an athlete achieve something they’ve been working so hard for—whether it’s hitting their first home run or committing to a college program—is incredibly rewarding.

What do I want the world to know?
I want people to know that Union Baseball isn’t just a training facility—it’s a system that helps kids become better players and better people. We believe in the power of hard work, the importance of community, and the value of dreaming big. At the end of the day, it’s about helping these young athletes unlock their full potential and giving them the tools to succeed on and off the field.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
San Diego and Southern California have so much to offer, and some of my favorite activities highlight the region’s unique charm. I love exploring the incredible food scene on Convoy Street, playing a round of golf at Torrey Pines with its stunning ocean views, and whale watching off Dana Point—it’s an unforgettable experience. La Jolla is another favorite, whether it’s kayaking around the caves or enjoying a fresh seafood dinner with a sunset view. The mix of natural beauty, great food, and outdoor activities makes this area truly special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely, I couldn’t do what I do without the incredible team around me. I want to give a huge shoutout to my business partners—Matt McLoughlin, Andrew Givens, and Marcus Hatley. These guys are the backbone of Union Baseball Systems, and their unique strengths make us the team we are today.

Matt has an incredible talent for connecting with people, whether it’s our athletes, their families, or our staff. He has a way of building relationships and fostering trust that’s unmatched. Andy is hands down one of the best strength coaches I’ve ever come across. His knowledge, precision, and ability to get results are unparalleled. And then there’s Marcus, who’s truly a one-man shop at our San Marcos location. With his experience as a former big leaguer and his background coaching at one of the top facilities in the country, he brings a level of expertise and dedication that’s invaluable.

Together, we form a team where each of us is an equal part of the puzzle. Our success is a reflection of the passion and effort we all bring to the table, and I couldn’t ask for a better group to work with.

Website: www.unionbaseballsystems.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unionbaseballsystems/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-basham-a518499/