The STF Crew welcomes a small town guy from Magnolia, AR (20 miles from STF Headquarters) who just so happened to have been selected number #1 in the MLB Draft back in 2010 by the Chicago Cubs: Hayden Simpson!

We've planned to have him as a guest since our podcast began. Hayden has a story to tell that most of us haven't heard. If you know of Hayden, you may have heard the tragic story of an unknown pitcher from a small town in Southern Arkansas who was picked up in the first round of the 2010 draft. The story typically hinges on how he developed mononucleosis immediately after signing with the Cubs. Then, the story turns to how mono wiped him out and eventually ended his career...he just never got his 96 mph fastball back. And, what's worse, you may have heard even nasty rumors that were started about Hayden. Not to mention the ruthlessness of the media (both local and national) in Chicago who never forgave Hayden for "not showing up", as it were.

Well, if that's the "story" you know, then you are dead wrong.

Listen to the truth from Hayden regarding the business of professional sports. Let his experience at the top level be a warning for those who venture into professional sports.

Some information we uncovered after some research verified what Alan had been saying for a long time now...Hayden had mono. But, mono didn't end Hayden's career. The machine of Major League Baseball did.