Under the Halo Podcast: Getting to Know Jack Kochanowicz

Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Jack Kochanowicz has solidified himself in the Angels starting rotation in 2026.

The 25-year-old right-hander sits down with host Trent Rush on this episode of the Under the Halo Podcast, the official podcast of Angels Baseball. Rush and Kochanowicz dive into his path to the Big Leagues, growing up near Philadelphia, what his family means to him, and more!

Catch the Under the Halo Podcast with Trent Rush for in-depth interviews with Angels players, coaches, and other members of the Angels family. Watch the podcast at youtube.com/angels or listen at angels.com/fans, on the AM830 app, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Episode Time Stamps:
00:27 - Word Association Game
4:13 - The worst spelling and pronunciation of "Kochanowicz"
6:18 - Growing up in the Greater Philadelphia area and watching Mike Trout
7:08 - Jack Kochanowicz’s draft day story
8:15 - The journey to Pro Ball and being a late bloomer at 15-years-old
10:41 - Ranking the priority of Philly Pro Sports teams while growing up
11:31 - Grandpa’s boisterous Phillies fandom
14:13 - Who are you closest with on the team?
15:17 - Talking during games when he doesn’t have a start that night
16:39 - When did the sinker become his “money” pitch?
17:17 - Offseason mechanical adjustments
18:20 - Receiving lessons and praise from Mike Maddux
19:13 - Being in the Big Leagues, getting sent down, and working his way back
21:12 - Non-baseball hobbies
21:47 - Tattoo tour
23:18 - Being close with his grandpa growing up, baseball park trips
24:29 - What do you think your career/journey means to your family?
25:03 - When did you realize you could be a Big Leaguer?
25:41 - What would you do be doing if you weren’t playing baseball?
26:20 - Jack Kochanowicz the Cat Owner
27:23 - Any obscure travel trips trying to visit ballparks?
28:12 - Have you set goals on what you want to accomplish in your career?
29:00 - Other athlete connections
29:32 - Surprises from pitching in the Majors