New England Baseball Journal Podcast: Recent Episodes
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Host Dan Guttenplan sits down with Team Massachusetts head coach Bill O'Connell and pitching coach Steve Healy to break down the team’s historic run at the three-year-old national tournament in Omaha. The coaches share the inside story behind their shift in pitching philosophy, the unexpected benefits of carrying a shorter roster, and what it’s really like for players to dive into the vibrant "Baseball Mecca" atmosphere of the College World Series remnants.
Key Takeaways:
The 16-Player Advantage: After falling from an 18-man roster to 16 due to an injury and an absence, Team Massachusetts found their "magic formula." The smaller roster allowed the exact same nine starters to stay in a consistent rhythm, getting four to five at-bats every single game.
Pounding the Zone: Shifting away from past years of chasing high-velocity arms that run up deep pitch counts, the coaching staff intentionally selected elite strike throwers. The strategy paid off massively: the staff led the tournament with only 13 runs allowed over four games, averaging a staggering 1.7 walks per game.
The Omaha Experience: From staying in North Carolina's former College World Series hotel to riding scooters around the city, the tournament offers a professional-grade atmosphere. Players also received major perks, including customized gear in the Stinger Sports "Stinger Room" and free cleats from Square.
Coaching Chemistry: Merging four high school head coaches into one staff succeeded through a strict delegation of duties. While Bill handled the offense, Steve Healy and Chris Costello acted as defensive coordinators, pulling all-night scouting reports to give their pitchers a distinct edge.
Dan and Pat review late-season Massachusetts high school baseball, projecting likely tournament tiers from MIAA power rankings. They discuss BC High as the clear Division 1 frontrunner, with teams like St. John’s Shrewsbury, Taunton, Franklin, Natick and others chasing; Natick’s 14-3 season, senior depth, and pitching highlights are noted. A major focus is Bishop Feehan’s Brody Bumilia, whose starts draw huge crowds and 15–25 radar guns; Pat describes his elite velocity, pitch mix, mass scout exit after he was pulled, and his first earned runs of the season after previously allowing only two unearned. They cover Braintree’s late skid, Division 2 contenders like St. Mary’s and Walpole and debate the returning Super 8 format and margin-of-victory impact, with Hamilton-Wenham’s 18-0 profile cited. They also preview Player of the Year finalist candidates and end with a minor-league team name trivia game.
Topics
00:44 D1 landscape and BC High
02:15 Natick rising contender
03:39 Brody Bumilia scouting circus
07:22 What 100 mph looks like
09:07 Bumilia season arc and draft buzz
13:26 Top 10 and St Johns Shrewsbury
16:19 Taunton surge vs Franklin slump
19:29 Braintree outlook and Brooks injury
20:44 Braintree Slump Watch
22:09 Division 2 Contenders
22:23 St Mary's Title Push
23:45 Super 8 Format Debate
27:20 Player of the Year Names
29:41 Three Up Three Down Trivia
33:52 Minor League Branding Chat
34:49 Podcast Wrap Up
ISL champion coach Brendan Morrissey recounts leading Milton Academy to the ISL title as the No. 6 seed, surviving a 7–6 opener vs. Roxbury Latin that ended with bases loaded and a freshman reliever escaping, then riding hot bats and dominant pitching to consecutive shutouts in the semifinal (9–0 after an eight-run first) and final, including a combined no-hitter as Jameson Gray peaked at the right time. Morrissey contrasts ISL and MIAA playoffs, explains building pitchers up slowly so they’re fresh in June, discusses velocity and injury concerns, outlines Milton Academy admissions-driven recruiting, and shares a measured approach to college placement. A “Three Up, Three Down” segment covers athlete-fan interactions, momentum, and underrated/overrated stats.
Topics
01:17 Roxbury Latin Thriller
02:49 Freshman Closes It
03:38 Home Field Advantage
04:33 Will Pierce Breakout
05:59 Championship Mindset
06:49 No Hitter And Dogpile
09:13 MIAA Vs ISL Coaching
10:51 Peaking For Playoffs
12:32 Jump To Milton Academy
13:47 Velocity And Recruiting
14:04 Velocity And Arm Health
14:53 In Game Pitcher Management
15:25 Milton Recruiting Reality
16:43 College Paths Beyond D1
18:35 Travel Ball And Honest Guidance
19:45 Fans Versus Players Debate
22:56 Momentum And Snowball Innings
25:27 Overrated And Underrated Stats
28:27 New Defensive Odds Metrics
29:25 Podcast Wrap And Thanks
Dan and Pat recap early-season New England prep baseball, discussing the latest prep coaches poll and teams and players standing out. Dexter ranks No. 1 behind deep Division I-level pitching; Austin Prep started hot before losing to Cheshire Academy; Canterbury and Choate Rosemary Hall remain unbeaten; and the ISL features strong starts from Belmont Hill, Nobles, and surprise 3–0 St. Mark’s. They note coaching transitions at Cheshire (following an underage drinking incident on a Florida trip) and Phillips Andover, plus early struggles from preseason No. 1 Avon Old Farms and non-league losses for Deerfield. Worcester Academy’s Tallon Roseboro and other standout players are highlighted. The episode ends with a “Three Up, Three Down” 1986 Red Sox–Mets trivia contest.
Topics
00:42 Early Season Standouts
00:51 Dexter Loaded Roster
02:02 Undefeated Contenders
03:47 Cheshire Coaching Shakeup
06:08 Andover Transition Stability
07:04 Avon Old Farms Slide
09:45 Deerfield Strategy Explained
11:23 Worcester Transfer Impact
12:39 St Marks Surprise Start
15:42 Belmont Hill Walkoff Win
17:14 Nobles Pitching Returns
17:32 ISL Contenders Breakdown
18:39 Tier Rankings and Bubble Teams
19:49 Standout Prep Players
22:07 Red Sox 86 Trivia Setup
22:58 Red Sox Player Clues
25:24 Mets Legends and Seinfeld Hint
28:01 Tiebreaker and Sign Off
Dan Guttenplan and Pat Donnelly review the first two weeks of the MIAA baseball season, noting public schools Taunton, Franklin and Braintree atop the power rankings and discussing factors behind sustained success like coaching, culture, feeder systems and player development. They cover Catholic Conference parity and how strength of schedule might affect MIAA seeding, highlight standout performances., and the rise of teams like Winchester and Natick. The show closes with “Three Up, Three Down” on memorable MLB strikeouts, infield plays and outfield throws.
Topics
00:40 Podcast Intro and Agenda
01:11 Public Schools Lead Rankings
03:20 Hockomock Program Culture
05:47 Catholic Conference Gauntlet
09:56 Walpole No-Hitters
11:28 Super 8 Baseball Talk
13:30 Lincoln-Sudbury Power Bats
15:14 Plymouth North Consistency
18:17 Freshman Breakout Ethan Edmonds
20:46 Middlesex League Early Standouts
26:02 Lefty Throwing 100
27:22 NIL Changes Draft Choice
28:01 Early Season Game Impressions
29:58 Teams And Players To Watch
31:18 Weekly Coverage Schedule
33:18 "Three Up, Three Down"
33:37 Greatest Strikeouts Ever
36:53 Best Infield Plays
40:19 Most Memorable Outfield Throws
44:16 Final Wrap And Thanks
Dan welcomes Bridgewater-Raynham head coach Cam Fox, also an assistant coach for Team Massachusetts, to discuss the start of the MIAA high school season, evaluating players in short indoor tryouts, and building a three-team program (freshman, JV, varsity). Fox emphasizes selecting coachable, hustle-oriented players who can be valuable anywhere, then placing them where they’ll get development and playing time, using scrimmages to refine decisions. He describes structured, efficient practices focused on doing simple things well—baserunning, pitching in the zone, and fundamentals—while balancing spring schedule challenges like weather and school events. Fox reflects on learning under longtime mentor Bill O’Connell at Braintree and the Super Eight experience, supports its return, and previews Team Massachusetts’ Omaha tournament with a win-first mindset. The episode’s “Three Up, Three Down” covers World Baseball Classic interest, favorite New England baseball venues, and MLB rule changes.
Topics
00:51 Settling In At BR
02:11 Tryout Tips For Players
04:35 Evaluating Indoors Fast
07:06 Practice Planning Efficiency
08:48 Leaving Braintree For BR
12:15 Team Massachusetts Omaha
14:14 Travel Ball Versus Legion
16:39 Recruiting Then And Now
18:48 Building BR Philosophy
19:09 Simple Baseball Standards
20:22 Aggressive Baserunning Drills
21:41 Super Eight Memories
22:58 Bring Back Super Eight
23:55 Three Up Three Down
24:24 WBC Reactions
27:07 Best New England Parks
29:26 Rule Changes Debate
33:22 Wrap Up And Thanks
Dan Guttenplan interviews Kevin Barnaby, Groton School head baseball coach and Nor’easters Tewksbury program director. Barnaby explains that tryouts are less about results and more about earning coaches’ trust through controllables like showing up early, hustling, being coachable, communicating, asking appropriate questions, and dressing in neutral or school colors rather than other travel gear. He describes Groton’s fast, chaotic evaluation drills to test reactions to adversity, and outlines the team’s optional five-day Vero Beach trip featuring multiple practices, scrimmages and workouts. Barnaby discusses his public-school playing background, Groton’s academic draw and global student body, minimal overlap between Groton and Nor’easters, his shift toward administrative duties, and a college-placement approach prioritizing academic, financial and social fit amid transfer-portal dynamics.
Topics
01:17 Tryout Tips: Trust Intangibles
02:56 Dress the Part at Tryouts
03:42 Earning Coaches' Trust
04:22 Chaotic Tryout Evaluations
06:31 Vero Beach Spring Trip
08:28 In-Season Development Plan
09:29 Coach Barnaby Background
10:21 Why Choose Groton?
11:38 Groton vs. Nor’easters Balance
12:51 Running Nor’easters Program
14:01 College Recruiting Guidance
16:00 When Recruiting Happens
17:34 Success Stories: Stewart Allen
18:41 Staying Connected After Graduation
20:28 ISL Pitching Depth and Rivalries
22:26 Keeping Underclassmen Engaged
24:25 Sponsor Break: Netting Pros
25:15 "Three Up, Three Down"
25:38 Ted Talk Coaching Philosophy
28:40 Who to Watch in MLB 2026
30:37 Weirdest Things Seen in Baseball
34:09 Podcast Wrap and Thanks
Dan Guttenplan interviews Belmont Hill head baseball coach David Cunningham, who is entering his fourth season. Cunningham discusses preseason anxiety, returning players and using early March tryouts and scrimmages to build toward an ISL title after reaching last year’s championship game. He explains Belmont Hill’s intentional choice to stay north instead of taking spring trips, relying on indoor cages, turf fields and local scrimmages, and he describes his mentorship under legendary coach Mike Grant and his own emphasis on the mental side of the game. They cover the hectic ISL schedule, recruiting for Belmont Hill (including reclassifying), collaborating with club coaches and camps for college placement, ISL parity and the tournament format, and the value of multisport athletes. A “Three Up, Three Down” segment debates cold-weather baseball, Hall of Fame standards, and loudest stadium memories.
Topics
01:10 Preseason Mindset
02:25 Motivation After Finals
03:43 Staying North For Prep
04:51 Indoor Turf Workarounds
06:05 Coach Mike Grant Legacy
07:56 Mental Game Coaching
09:46 In-Season Weekly Grind
11:18 Recruiting For Prep
13:29 College Recruiting Help
15:48 ISL Parity and Prep
18:24 Thoughts On ISL Tournament
20:10 Standing Out In ISL
20:56 Belmont Hill Values
21:38 Baseball Culture and Support
22:01 Boarding Limits Explained
22:39 Why Multi-Sport Matters
24:39 Recruiting Where to Watch
26:01 Video and Evaluation Tips
27:20 "Three Up, Three Down"
28:04 Is Baseball Too Cold?
30:52 Hall of Fame Standards
34:18 Loudest Stadium Memories
37:55 Final Thanks and Wrap
Dan Guttenplan interviews Central Connecticut State coach Charlie Hickey, the longest-tenured Division 1 coach in New England, about how college baseball has changed with the transfer portal, NIL, and accelerated recruiting. Hickey discusses CCSU’s late February start, training indoors during winter, and the challenges of recruiting in the Northeast. He shares what he looks for in players, balancing freshman development with experienced transfers, and replacing key pitching innings. They cover fall practice benefits, conference title expectations, and the difficulty mid-majors face in NCAA regionals vs. SEC/ACC depth. Hickey also critiques showcase velocity culture and injury risk. “Three Up, Three Down” explores fandom, clutch hitters and baseball’s golden age.
Topics
01:00 30-Plus Years in College Baseball: What’s Changed (Portal, NIL, Longevity)
02:28 Opening Day Prep in New England: Snow, Travel and Gym Workouts
04:16 Recruiting in the Northeast: Finding the Right Fit
05:33 Showcases vs. Real Baseball: Traits Coaches Still Value
07:54 Transfer Portal Strategy: Balancing Older Transfers and Freshmen
09:59 Where to Evaluate Players: High School Coaches, Visits and Practices
11:35 Recruiting Timeline and Identifying Undervalued Prospects
13:30 What a D-1 Year Really Looks Like: Fall Ball, Winter Build-Up, Early Starts
17:43 Sustained Success at CCSU: Conference Titles, Scheduling and Replacing Stars
20:15 Can Mid-Majors Compete in Regionals in the NIL Era?
22:24 Velocity Obsession and Arm Injuries: Mixed Messages in Modern Pitching
25:53 Three Up, Three Down: Why We Root for Teams
29:20 Game 7 Pinch-Hit Draft: Who Gets the Clutch Base Hit?
31:15 The Golden Age of Baseball (and Can We Get It Back?)
35:16 Wrap-Up, Thanks, and Where to Subscribe
Dan Guttenplan speaks with Andrew Dickson, the coach at Choate Rosemary Hall, about his successful efforts to build a competitive baseball program in the Founders League. Coach Dickson shares insights into his priorities when he first took over the program, including increasing the number of college-bound players and establishing a strong team culture. They discuss the recruitment process, the impact of the transfer portal on college baseball, and the importance of player development. Additionally, Dickson talks about his experiences and mentors from his previous coaching roles and how these have influenced his coaching style.
Topics
00:40 Building a Competitive Program at Choate Rosemary Hall
03:03 Recruitment Strategies and Challenges
08:14 Establishing a Winning Culture
09:15 Personality Assessments in Coaching
12:06 Mentors and Influences in Coaching
14:03 Sustaining Success and Future Goals
25:04 "Three Up, Three Down": Fun Baseball Questions
30:31 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan welcomes assistant coaches James Simboli and Dylan Sanchez from the Salisbury School coaching staff. They discuss the legacy of their late coach Kevin Huber, who recently passed away. The conversation covers Kevin’s impact on players, his coaching style, and reminiscences from both coaches’ experiences. They also talk about how the team will move forward while honoring Kevin’s memory and the values he instilled in the program. The episode highlights the importance of togetherness and the continued support needed to uphold the program's foundation.
GoFundMe page for Kevin Huber: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-coach-kevin-john-huber
Topics
00:20 Remembering Coach Kevin Huber
00:47 Memorial Service Reflections
01:53 Personal Stories and Impressions
03:23 Coaching Style and Impact
12:51 Interactions with Assistant Coaches
15:42 Continuing the Legacy
18:02 Looking Ahead to the Season
24:02 Final Thoughts and How to Help
Dan Guttenplan interviews Pat Moriarty, head coach of the Deerfield Academy baseball team. Moriarty discusses his journey from coaching at Springfield Cathedral to Deerfield, where he turned a struggling program into a championship contender. The conversation covers recruiting strategies, building a strong team culture, and the importance of player development both on and off the field. Moriarty also reflects on the mental and physical preparation required for youth baseball players and shares his personal experiences with coaching his son's youth baseball teams. The episode concludes with insights into Deerfield's outlook for the upcoming season.
Topics
01:12 Pat Moriarty's Coaching Journey
03:27 Building a Winning Program at Deerfield
05:57 Recruiting Strategies and Challenges
16:40 Player Development and Training
26:51 "Three Up, Three Down" Segment
34:40 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan Guttenplan sits down with Marc Deschenes, the new owner of the Lowell Spinners, a Futures Collegiate Baseball League team. Mark shares his journey from nearly missing out on baseball in Lowell to reviving the Spinners with a focus on community engagement and player development. He discusses the strategic assembly of the new ownership group, which includes notable baseball figures like Johnny Damon and Jonathan Papelbon. Mark also delves into his professional baseball career, touching on his experiences with the Cleveland Indians and his transition into business with Pison Technologies, a company that develops wearable cognitive training tools. The episode wraps up with a fun segment of baseball trivia and memorable moments.
Topics
00:40 Background of the Lowell Spinners
01:33 Formation of the New Ownership Group
03:03 Building the Team and Community Engagement
04:36 Roster Development and Recruitment
08:49 Promotions and Fan Experience
14:31 Professional Baseball Journey
21:19 Career Decisions and Transition from Baseball
22:22 Introduction to Pison Technologies
23:44 How Pison Technologies Enhances Baseball Performance
26:56 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Memories and Trivia
37:04 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up
Dan is joined by Scott Patterson, founder of Northeast Baseball, who discusses the intricacies and evolution of travel baseball programs in New England. Scott shares his experiences and insights from the recent WWBA tournaments, the pivotal Fort Myers and Jupiter events, and explains how these tournaments serve as major recruiting platforms. The conversation delves into the challenges of modern-day baseball recruiting, the importance of relationships in the recruiting process, and the impact of new recruiting rules. Scott also narrates the development processes for his players, touching on their off-season training, the significance of finding the right college fit, and the role of relationships with college coaches. The episode concludes with a fun segment 'Three Up, Three Down,' discussing quirky baseball moments, knuckleball pitchers, and memorable MLB events.
Topics
00:29 Overview of WWBA Events
01:37 Recruiting Focus at Fort Myers
02:12 Changes in Jupiter Event
04:37 Importance of Relationships in Recruiting
08:08 Challenges in High School Recruiting
16:49 Assembling Fall Rosters
19:57 Winter Preparations at NEB
22:54 NEB Facility and Culture
24:52 Developing Better Baseball Players and Human Beings
25:09 Prime Location and Diverse Training Opportunities
26:04 Success Stories of Young Athletes
28:42 Vision for a Travel Baseball Program
31:13 Three Up, Three Down Segment
31:54 Memorable and Unlikely Baseball Moments
39:05 The Art of the Knuckleball
43:19 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
Dan speaks with Chris Costello, head coach at Walpole High School and coach for the Northeast Gators travel ball team. They discuss Walpole's successful season, the team's journey and challenges, and Costello's coaching influences. The conversation also touches on Costello's perspective on high school baseball development, the role of travel baseball, and recruiting strategies. The episode concludes with a segment featuring controversial baseball rules and their implications, offering deep insights and personal anecdotes from Costello's extensive experience in the sport.
Topics
00:42 Reflecting on the Championship Season
01:36 Overcoming Past Challenges
03:01 Coaching Journey and Influences
04:22 The Talent of 2019 and the Super Eight Tournament
05:28 Cam Schlittler's Development
07:55 Northeast Gators and Travel Baseball
09:10 Recruiting Challenges and Advice
16:35 Team Massachusetts and the Omaha Experience
21:08 Specialization vs. Multi-Sport Athletes
24:14 The Importance of Playing Multiple Sports
25:56 Transitioning from Professional Baseball to Coaching
26:46 Building a Coaching Career in Walpole
28:15 Rivalries and Traditions in Massachusetts Baseball
29:22 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball's Controversial Rules
33:42 The Chase Utley Rule and Player Safety
36:53 The Ghost Runner Debate
41:19 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan dives into the remarkable story of Dom Driscoll, a sophomore baseball prospect from Middleborough High School, and his father, Bill Driscoll. Dom shares how he overcame a congenital heart condition, underwent multiple surgeries from birth, and defied medical expectations to become one of the top baseball prospects in the class of 2028. The episode delves into the emotional journey from diagnosis to recovery, the importance of support from family and mentors, and Dominic's unwavering determination to excel despite his condition. Also featured are discussions on favorite batting stances and memorable baseball cards, adding a touch of nostalgia and fun to the conversation.
Topics
00:23 Dom Driscoll's Early Life and Diagnosis
05:13 Overcoming Adversity: Dominic's Surgeries and Recovery
09:32 Dom's Passion for Baseball
10:52 Joining the Team and Early Challenges
13:57 Building a Home Gym and Batting Cage
18:27 Inspiring Others: The Greg Olsen Connection
19:55 A Dream Come True: Fenway Park Experience
20:49 Unexpected Banquet Surprise
21:10 Make-A-Wish Journey
24:04 NEB and Training Commitment
27:31 Three Up, Three Down Segment
37:27 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan talks to David Cataruzolo, head coach at Roxbury Latin, discussing various aspects of Independent School League (ISL) baseball. Topics include changes to the ISL fall season rules, the introduction of post-season tournaments, and a review of Roxbury Latin’s performance in previous seasons. Razo highlights the team's young roster and returning key pitchers for the upcoming season. The conversation covers coaching strategies across different sports, the balance between academic and athletic excellence at Roxbury Latin, and the recruitment challenges both for the school and for players aiming to play college baseball. Razo also shares personal insights into his coaching philosophy, influenced by his upbringing with legally blind parents, and discusses the importance of fostering team unity and player development.
Topics
00:37 ISL Fall Season Changes
01:38 ISL Post-Season Tournament
02:56 Reflecting on Last Season
04:05 Team Dynamics and Key Players
05:06 Fall Season Activities and Philosophy
06:14 Coaching Hockey vs. Baseball
08:33 Transition to Coaching
11:11 Recruiting for Roxbury Latin
15:28 ISL Competitors and Season Outlook
16:47 Personal Background and Coaching Philosophy
20:52 Three Up, Three Down Segment
28:36 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan interviews Sean Callahan, the new Head Coach of Stonehill College's baseball team. Callahan discusses his transition from assistant to head coach, his recruiting philosophy, and his approach to building a cohesive team. He shares insights about the differences in recruiting from the transfer portal versus high school prospects, and the importance of loyalty and culture in his program. Callahan also reflects on his previous coaching experience at Framingham State and his time with the Cape Cod League's Hyannis Harbor Hawks. The podcast concludes with a segment called 'Three Up, Three Down,' where Callahan and Guttenplan answer questions about baseball stadiums, underrated players, and memorable postseason moments.
Topics
00:14 Meet Sean Callahan: New Head Coach at Stonehill
00:30 Transitioning to Head Coach: Challenges and Strategies
01:09 Recruiting Philosophy and Strategies
02:10 Balancing High School and Portal Recruits
04:09 Building a Competitive Team: Offense and Defense
05:35 Success at the Division One Level
06:45 Sean Callahan's Journey Back to Stonehill
09:41 Advice for Aspiring Stonehill Players
12:03 Strength and Conditioning Program
13:41 Summer Communication and Player Development
16:01 Team Cohesion and Mental Health
17:47 Coaching Experience in the Cape Cod League
19:43 Sean Callahan's Playing Career and Transition to Coaching
21:43 Three Up, Three Down: Fun Q&A Segment
28:17 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up
Dan welcomes the manager of Shrewsbury Legion Post 397, Frank Vaccaro. The discussion covers the recruitment of top players, the benefits of Legion baseball over AAU programs, and the holistic development offered by Legion's team-oriented environment. Vaccaro emphasizes the importance of teamwork, life lessons, and realistic college placement goals rather than the costly promises often associated with AAU baseball.
Topics
00:17 Guest Introduction: Frank Vaccaro
00:31 The Rise of American Legion Baseball
00:57 Recruitment and Team Philosophy
01:47 The Importance of Teamwork
04:21 Player Development and College Recruitment
07:16 Challenges of College Transfers
08:55 Coaching and Costs in Legion vs. Travel Baseball
14:19 Legion Baseball Schedule and Player Development
18:03 Advice for Aspiring College Players
19:58 College Recruitment and Scholarships
21:27 Realistic Expectations in Baseball
22:28 Life Lessons from Baseball
23:22 Three Up, Three Down Segment Introduction
23:52 First Baseball Memories
25:50 Most Iconic Baseball Records
28:30 Players to Remember
33:32 Concluding Remarks
Dan interviews Coach Mike Glavine from Northeastern Baseball. The discussion covers the team's achievements, including 17 shutouts and 49 wins, the role of senior leadership, and the impact of new and transfer players. Coach Glavine emphasizes the importance of a strong support staff and teamwork. They also talk about recruiting strategies, player development, and the balancing act between traditional coaching methods and new technologies. The episode concludes with a segment on baseball strategy, including the intentional walk, pitching changes, and the resurgence of small ball in modern baseball.
Topics
00:41 Recap of an Incredible Season
02:33 Challenges and Strategies
05:21 Coaching Staff Changes
07:47 Player Turnover and Recruitment
11:07 Recruiting Philosophy and Process
16:39 Summer Recruiting and Future Prospects
22:14 Navigating the Recruitment Process
23:18 The Competitive Landscape of New England College Baseball
24:39 The Impact of Pitcher Velocity and Injuries
28:57 Embracing Technology in Baseball Training
33:16 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Strategy Discussion
44:22 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
Dan is joined by newly appointed Brown University baseball coach Frank Holbrook to discuss the whirlwind process of his recent hiring, transitioning from his previous role at Northeastern University, and his vision for the future of Brown's baseball program. Holbrook shares insights into the recruiting landscape, the development of facilities, and his coaching philosophy, emphasizing a dynamic and relentless playing style. He also highlights the support and encouragement from his former colleagues at Northeastern and provides a sneak peek into the aggressive approach Brown will undertake to build a robust and competitive team.
Topics
00:27 Frank Holbrook's Hiring Process
02:06 Coaching Journey: From Wheaton to Northeastern
08:33 Recruiting Philosophy and Strategy at Brown
10:01 Building a Coaching Staff
15:37 Future Plans and Vision for Brown Baseball
27:55 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan and Pat Donnelly offer a comprehensive recap of the MIAA State Baseball Tournament as it heads into its final weekend. They delve into notable performances and players from the tournament, discussing state championship matchups across divisions, including standout teams like Braintree, Chelmsford, and Walpole. The discussion also covers predictions for the finals, player injuries, and candidates for MIAA Player of the Year. The episode closes with a segment on stolen bases' value in modern baseball and personal reflections on memorable rookie seasons. Additionally, a touching tribute to Cape Cod League Hall of Famer Sol Yas.
Topics
01:10 Division 1 Tournament Recap
03:32 Braintree's Journey to the Finals
06:24 Chelmsford's Impressive Run
11:58 Division 2 Tournament Highlights
17:24 Division 3 Tournament Surprises
20:56 Division 4 and 5 Tournament Insights
25:26 MIAA Player of the Year Discussion
25:53 Shoutouts to Top Performers
26:44 State Tournament Highlights
29:54 Narrowing Down the Finalists
35:07 Three Up, Three Down Segment
35:43 Memorable Rookie Seasons
39:34 Underachieving Teams Discussion
44:53 The Value of Stolen Bases
47:56 Heartfelt Tribute and Closing Remarks
Todd Mathewson, the champion coach of the Western New England Prep Baseball League from Canterbury School, joins to discuss his team's recent championship victory over Cheshire Academy. Mathewson shares insights into the emotional journey of achieving the win after years of close calls, breaking down game strategies and key moments of the season. He also talks about the selection process for Post-Graduate players, the rising interest in Canterbury's baseball program, and the impact of a strong supporting community. The episode wraps up with a fun segment, 'Three Up, Three Down,' where favorite baseball stances, intimidation on the mound, and fiery managers are discussed.
Topics
00:32 Championship Game Emotions and Highlights
02:23 Western New England Prep Baseball League Overview
04:25 Tournament Strategy and Key Players
06:54 Celebration and Community Support
08:29 Recruitment and Program Growth
11:15 Postgraduate Year Insights
16:32 Coaching Philosophy and Personal Journey
22:49 Three Up, Three Down Segment
30:47 Closing Remarks
Dan and guest Pat Donnelly provide immediate and in-depth reactions to the freshly released MIAA baseball brackets. Recorded just half an hour after the brackets were unveiled, they discuss teams to watch, potential upsets, and who they believe will make it through to the later rounds, including final four predictions and eventual champions across various divisions. The episode particularly focuses on Division One and Two, with key insights on teams like Taunton, Xaverian, St. John's Shrewsbury, Plymouth North, Redding, and several others. Lesser-covered divisions like Three, Four, and Five are also briefly discussed.
Topics
00:00 Introduction and Instant Reactions to MIAA Baseball Brackets
00:54 Division One Breakdown: Top Seeds and Key Matchups
03:11 Teams to Watch: Dark Horses and Potential Upsets
08:55 Final Four Predictions and Key Players
14:34 Division Two Overview: Defending Champions and Top Contenders
15:06 Top Teams and Key Players in Division One
15:55 Underdogs and Lower Seeds to Watch
18:04 Predictions for Final Four and Potential Upsets
22:41 Division Three Highlights and Contenders
28:15 Division Four and Five Overview
31:14 Closing Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-Up
The guest is ISL champion Lawrence coach Chris Margraf. Dan and Chris discuss his team’s journey to winning the ISL tournament, the strategic decisions made during games, the evolution of high school baseball with more specialized athletes, and the importance of team chemistry. They also delve into the nuances of field management, decision-making under pressure, and the changing landscape of youth sports. The episode concludes with a 'Three Up, Three Down' segment featuring baseball dilemmas and Hall of Fame debates.
Topics
00:14 Reflecting on the ISL Championship
01:01 The Evolution of Prep School Baseball
02:13 Challenges and Strategies in the Playoffs
03:56 Pitching Decisions and Game Dynamics
05:06 Coaching Decisions and Game Management
06:24 The Impact of Key Players
06:56 Navigating the DH Rule and Game Scenarios
08:22 The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Championship Game
13:27 Post-Game Reflections and Umpire Decisions
17:44 Player Development and Future Prospects
21:41 The Changing Landscape of High School Sports
26:30 The Importance of Nuances in Baseball
27:33 The Evolution of Multi-Sport Athletes
28:38 Specialization and Its Impact on Players
29:19 The Role of AAU Programs
30:39 Team Dynamics and Baseball IQ
34:19 Three Up, Three Down Segment Introduction
34:51 Hall of Fame Dilemmas
40:15 Ethical Dilemmas in Baseball
46:29 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
Dan and co-host Pat Donnelly provide a comprehensive mid-season review of prep baseball in New England. The discussion focuses on various leagues, including the ISL, NEPSAC, and independent teams. Key highlights include favorited teams like St. Sebastian's, Roxbury Latin, and Lawrence Academy and predictions for awards and championships. The podcast also explores noteworthy statistics and emerging talents, offering in-depth insights into the current prep baseball scene.
Topics
01:06 ISL Favorites: St. Sebastian's, Roxbury Latin, and Lawrence Academy
06:13 ISL Contenders: Nobles, Tabor, and Belmont Hill
10:48 ISL Bubble Teams: Milton Academy, BB&N, and Others
14:19 ISL Awards Predictions
18:02 NEPSAC Founders League
20:21 Central New England: Deerfield's Dominance
21:48 Western New England League Dominance
22:58 Fairchester Athletic Association Showdown
23:58 Independent Teams Spotlight
26:53 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Insights
A midseason review of New England high school baseball with beat reporter Pat Donnelly. Dan and Pat discuss the performance of Catholic conference schools, standout teams, and key players. Topics include the unpredictable top 10 rankings, the competitive nature of the Catholic and Bay State Conferences, dominant individual performances, and predictions for state championships.
Topics
00:30 Catholic Conference Teams Overview
02:18 Xaverian's Strong Season
03:49 BC High's Challenges and Comebacks
06:01 St. John Shrewsbury's Performance
07:56 Braintree and Bay State Conference
09:39 Taunton and King Philip Highlights
13:21 Newton South's Turnaround
14:39 Mid-Season Questions and Predictions
20:21 Brody's Recovery and Future Plans
21:03 State Championship Predictions
23:18 Three Up, Three Down Segment
24:00 Catching a Foul Ball at a Major League Game
27:32 Unusual Baseball Moments
34:05 Judging a Ballpark's Quality
36:19 Conclusion and Credits
Dan is joined by legendary prep baseball coach Dan Donato from Dexter Southfield. They explore a range of topics including the evolution of New England prep school baseball, the impact of the pandemic on recruiting, and the increasingly competitive environment with postgraduate leagues. Donato shares insights on his recruitment strategy, the importance of player development, and the unique advantages Dexter Southfield offers its athletes. Additionally, Donato reflects on memorable moments, including successful seasons and key influences in his coaching career. The episode wraps up with a three up, three down segment covering memorable base running plays, trick plays, and favorite baseball seasons.
Topics
00:40 State of New England Prep School Baseball
03:03 Recruitment and Player Development at Dexter
04:32 Coaching Philosophy and Career Journey
12:32 Top Prospects and League Competitiveness
15:02 Challenges and Opportunities in Prep Baseball
17:37 Top 100 Camp and College Recruitment
20:08 Current Season and League Outlook
23:23 Sponsorship Message
24:13 Design Your Own Custom Rawlings Glove
24:40 Flexible Education for Student-Athletes
25:21 Three Up, Three Down: Introduction
25:59 Memorable Base Running Plays
26:50 Trick Plays in Baseball
29:08 Shrewd Base Running Moments
32:13 Favorite Baseball Seasons
37:49 Boston Sports Nostalgia
39:29 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
Dan welcomes Joe Breen, head coach at Bishop Feehan and director of GBG club baseball. They discuss Joe's experience transitioning from club to high school coaching, the recruitment process for high school players, and the motivation of committed players returning to high school teams. They also cover the challenges and strategies in managing high school versus summer baseball schedules. The episode concludes with a 'Three Up, Three Down' segment where memorable near no-hitters and defensive plays are shared.
Topics
00:40 High School Recruitment and Motivation
02:39 Coaching Journey and High School Return
04:06 Star Players and Their Commitment
09:54 Development and Recruitment
14:07 Coaching Strategies and Challenges
18:12 Functional Strength and Meticulous Preparation
18:41 Advice for Aspiring Baseball Players
20:32 Team Strategy and Season Outlook
22:23 Three Up, Three Down Segment
22:50 Memorable Near No-Hitters
25:21 Amazing Defensive Plays
27:05 Unforgettable Baseball Moments
31:29 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan and guest Pat Donnelly preview the upcoming Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) high school baseball season. They discuss key teams and players to watch, with a focus on top teams like BC High, Xaverian, St. John’s Shrewsbury, and others. The episode also features a preseason top 10 team ranking and a comprehensive all-MIAA team roster. The podcast concludes with a fun 'Three Up, Three Down' segment featuring humorous and speculative MLB predictions.
Topics
00:51 Recap of Last Season's Highlights
02:31 Top Teams to Watch This Season
04:56 In-Depth Team Analysis
15:57 Preseason All-MIAA Team
20:23 Top High School Outfielders to Watch
22:02 Standout Catchers Making Waves
22:44 Rising Two-Way Prospects
24:18 Predicting the MIAA Player of the Year
25:21 Three Up, Three Down: MLB Predictions
25:44 Fun MLB Predictions and Scenarios
31:31 Broadcast Innovations and Ideas
38:01 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
Dan is joined by Pat Donnelly to discuss the upcoming NEPSAC baseball season. The conversation covers the recent transition from hockey season to baseball, the increasing competitiveness of prep school baseball in New England, and predictions for the season. They delve into various conferences, highlighting notable teams such as Lawrence Academy, St. Sebastian's, Deerfield Academy, Dexter School, and Salisbury School. The episode also previews promising players, including several Division 1 college commits and potential future professional prospects. Additionally, the podcast features a fun segment where the hosts create fictional baseball movie plots based on unique titles.
Topics
01:15 Previewing the NEPSAC Baseball Season
03:00 ISL Coaching Changes and Tournament Insights
04:20 Top ISL Teams and Players to Watch
08:24 Central New England Prep Baseball Highlights
11:35 Western New England Prep Baseball Powerhouses
13:59 Founders League Baseball Overview
16:27 Team Transitions and Prospects
16:50 Hamden Hall's Dominance
17:33 Austin Prep's Journey
18:54 Independent Programs to Watch
20:48 Top 10 Preseason Rankings
21:46 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Movie Ideas
The guest is Westminster Coach Tyler Wosleger, who shares his experiences and strategies in transforming the school's baseball program from an 0-18 season in 2019 to one of the top programs in the Founders League. Ty discusses integrating with the school's strong hockey tradition, using cutting-edge analytics, and recruiting local talent. He also reflects on his baseball-centric upbringing and his own collegiate playing days at Fairfield. The episode wraps up with a fun segment on proposed changes to Major League Baseball.
Topics
00:49 Turning Around Westminster's Baseball Program
03:21 Building a Winning Culture
05:51 Recruitment and Staff Development
06:36 Utilizing Technology and Analytics
10:14 Local Talent and Community Engagement
16:05 Personal Background and Baseball Journey
24:55 Three Up, Three Down Segment
33:20 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
The guest is Matt Duffy, the reigning ISL Coach of the Year and Head Coach at St. Sebastian’s, shares his excitement for the upcoming prep baseball season. Reflecting on his successful first year as head coach, Duffy discusses the team's remarkable turnaround, attributes the success to pitching, defense, and team cohesion, and highlights standout freshman Gavin Wainwright. The discussion also covers Duffy's journey from playing Legion baseball to his experience in the minor leagues and MLB. They delve into the evolving landscape of college recruiting, the impact of strength training, and the significant role of travel ball. The episode concludes with a 'Three Up, Three Down' segment on potential MLB rule changes, including robot umpires, anti-taunting rules, and mid-season tournaments.
Topics
01:16 Reflecting on Last Season's Success
02:35 Gavin Wainwright's Breakout Performance
04:41 Coaching Philosophy and Pitching Strategy
05:43 Strength Training and College Recruitment
06:54 Transition from Player to Coach
12:34 Travel Ball and High School Coaching
15:28 Previewing the Upcoming ISL Season
16:30 Playoffs and Team Talent
17:04 Reflecting on My Playing Career
17:13 College Choices and Vermont Experience
18:34 Draft Experience and Family Tragedy
20:47 Minor League Journey
23:13 Big League Highlights and Reflections
24:09 Spring Training and Team Culture
25:32 Three Up, Three Down: MLB Rule Changes
The guest is Chris Carmain, a former Northeastern baseball player, assistant coach at Merrimack College, and Director of Player Development for the New Hampshire Prospects. The conversation revolves around the success of the New Hampshire Prospects' recruiting efforts, including how they've managed to secure college commitments for their players despite the increasing prominence of the transfer portal. Carmain explains their multifaceted approach to player development that prepares athletes for college-level baseball, including strength and conditioning programs. The talk also touches on broader issues like the financial challenges faced by families engaging in year-round travel baseball and the evolving landscape of college baseball recruiting compared to Carmain's playing days. An interactive segment, 'Three Up, Three Down,' ends the episode, where Carmain and Guttenplan humorously debate hypothetical career choices among baseball figures.
Topics
00:35 Recruiting Success and Strategies
06:56 Player Development and College Preparation
09:52 High School Season and Player Management
10:55 Travel Programs and Team Placement
13:38 Communication and Player Health
15:17 Recruiting Landscape Changes
19:22 The Challenges of College Baseball Loyalty
20:32 Northeastern's Rise Under Coach Glavin
21:52 Building Merrimack's Baseball Program
24:11 The Cost of Year-Round Baseball
25:15 Supporting Talented Players Financially
26:53 Three Up, Three Down: Fantasy Baseball Careers
34:39 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
Dan engages in a detailed discussion with Jim Bretz, a scouting supervisor for the Detroit Tigers and an experienced baseball figure with a rich history as a coach and scout. Bretz discusses his rigorous scouting schedule for the new college baseball season, particularly focusing on the Northeast region, which includes New England, New York, New Jersey, and Eastern Canada. The conversation covers the challenges and rewards of scouting in the Northeast, the impact of the transfer portal on college baseball, and the scouting process for high school and college players. Bretz shares insights on notable programs like Northeastern and UConn, and personal anecdotes about notable players he scouted.
Topics
00:49 Scouting the Northeast Region
02:03 Fall Scouting Insights
04:24 Northeastern University Prospects
06:48 UConn Baseball Program
10:09 Boston College and Coaching Transitions
13:05 High School Prospects and Transfer Portal
20:10 Scouting Collaboration and Draft Stories
21:00 Reflecting on Missed Opportunities
21:25 Rajai Davis: The One That Got Away
22:45 Success Stories: Brad Brock and Jason Foley
25:01 The Rise of Northeast Baseball Talent
28:10 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Personalities
28:57 Would You Rather: Barry Bonds or Barry Zito?
32:11 Would You Rather: Mike Trout or Mike Timlin?
34:39 Would You Rather: Jim Thome or Jim Bouton?
38:56 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts
The guest is Jake Willsey, head of the strength program for the NEB Northeast baseball travel program. The discussion centers around Willsey's approach to individualized strength training for athletes ranging from pre-teens to professionals, particularly focusing on off-season preparation. Willsey elaborates on the assessment process, the integration of advanced technology, and the importance of tailored recovery strategies. They also touch on the evolving landscape of college recruitment and how it impacts player development. The episode includes a fun 'Three Up, Three Down' segment featuring thought-provoking questions about the game of baseball.
Topics
00:28 Strength Training Philosophy
02:54 Athlete Assessment Process
05:00 Technology in Training
06:18 Managing Athlete Expectations
19:29 Recruiting Landscape Changes
24:35 Three Up, Three Down Segment
32:01 Conclusion and Farewell
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, host Dan Guttenplan discusses the evolution of strength training in baseball with John O'Neil, co-owner of Cressey Sports Performance and the director of performance at the facility. O'Neill explains the shift from traditional, generic training programs to individualized assessments and tailored regimens aimed at helping players achieve their specific goals. He also emphasizes the importance of recovery, nutrition, and consistent training habits for athletes at various levels. The episode concludes with a special 'Three Up, Three Down' segment analyzing topics such as the MLB All-Star Game, Shohei Ohtani's dual-role performance, and Pete Rose's hit record.
Topics
00:37 Evolution of Strength Training in Baseball
02:11 Individualized Training Programs
10:05 Technology in Baseball Training
19:03 Recovery and Injury Prevention
23:34 Creating a Throwing Plan for Youth Athletes
24:28 The Importance of Off Periods and Deload Periods
26:19 Tracking Nutrition and Sleep for High School Athletes
27:21 Building Consistent Habits and Routines
31:07 Challenges of Maintaining Habits During Travel Ball
31:30 Three Up, Three Down: Overrated or Underrated?
43:30 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
Dan interviews Sacred Heart baseball coach Pat Egan, discussing his transformative journey with the team. Egan reflects on his initial strategies, such as assembling the right coaching staff, including TK Kiernan and Isaiah Dubon, and communicating with players to understand the necessary improvements. The conversation delves into Egan's recruiting philosophy, focusing largely on high school players and maintaining roster stability. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the transfer portal and Sacred Heart’s move to the MAAC conference..
Topics
00:32 Turning the Program Around: First Steps
01:16 Building a Winning Team: Key Hires
02:46 Player Engagement and Philosophy
07:43 Recruiting Strategy and Philosophy
09:13 Challenges and Adaptations in Recruiting
13:22 Transfer Portal and NCAA Rules
22:58 Reflections on Success and Future Goals
31:10 Transition to the MAAC Conference
32:10 Three Up, Three Down: Fun Q&A
40:08 Conclusion and Farewell
Ben Casparius, a World Series champion from Connecticut, shares his experiences pitching in Game 4 of the World Series for the Dodgers. The discussion covers his preparation for the game, his journey to the major leagues, including his college career at UConn and North Carolina, and his unexpected call-up to the Dodgers. Ben also provides insights into his favorite World Series moments growing up, the Dodgers' team dynamics, and the challenges of transitioning from hitting to full-time pitching. The episode ends with light-hearted questions about memorable moments from Ben's youth and perspectives on fearsome relievers.
Topics
00:00 Introduction and Latest Edition Announcement
00:50 Introducing World Series Champion Ben Casparius
01:10 Ben Casparius' World Series Experience
02:25 Handling Pressure and Strategy on the Mound
06:01 Path to the Big Leagues
15:57 College Career and Transition to UConn
25:25 Rapid Fire: Three Up, Three Down
31:45 Closing Remarks
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, host Dan Guttenplan is joined by Ed Kahovec, head coach of Holy Cross baseball. They discuss his journey transitioning into his role at Holy Cross, the challenges and opportunities he encountered due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the impact of the transfer portal on college baseball. Kahovec shares insights into his recruiting strategies, emphasizing the importance of finding the right fit for Holy Cross. The conversation also covers the intricacies of developing players within the stringent academic standards of the school and the unique schedule of Division 1 baseball. The episode concludes with a fun segment, 'Three Up, Three Down,' where Kahovec and Guttenplan react to famous baseball quotes.
Topics
00:52 Navigating Coaching Transitions
01:37 Impact of COVID-19 on College Baseball
02:39 Recruiting Challenges and Strategies
04:07 Holy Cross Recruiting Model
05:19 National Recruitment and Evaluation
08:47 NCAA Recruiting Calendar and Roster Management
11:30 Coaching Philosophy and Program Values
15:09 Player Development Focus
17:51 Fall Season Structure and Intensity
20:18 Transition to Preseason Training
20:56 Balancing Travel and Academics
21:53 Pitcher Development Strategies
23:48 Three Up, Three Down Segment
24:16 Famous Baseball Quotes Discussion
34:43 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, hosted by Dan Guttenplan, University of Rhode Island Baseball Coach Raphael Cerrato joins to discuss the challenges and adjustments during the fall season, particularly with the installation of a new turf field. Cerrato elaborates on the team's off-campus workouts and how they adapted to limited field usage. The conversation also delves into recruiting dynamics, touching on the impacts of the transfer portal, NIL changes, and the complexities of scouting high school players. The episode concludes with a 'Three Up, Three Down' segment focusing on baseball dilemmas and decision-making in coaching.
Topics
00:27 Challenges of the Fall Season
00:46 New Turf Field and Its Impact
04:05 Recruiting During Field Construction
05:52 Changes in Recruiting Landscape
06:32 Transfer Portal and Roster Management
14:50 Importance of In-Person Scouting
18:18 Evaluating Players Beyond Data
20:44 Summer Baseball Competitiveness
21:02 Evaluating Talent Beyond Stats
22:25 Impact of Travel Ball on Recruitment
23:04 Velocity vs. Pitching Skills
24:23 Developing Effective Pitchers
27:50 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Dilemmas
28:20 Slump Strategies for Hitters
32:39 Ethics in Baseball: Faking It
35:13 Aggressiveness in the Outfield
38:00 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
The guest is Steve Healy, coach of the D1 Massachusetts State Champion team, BC High. He discusses the celebratory trip to Fenway Park, reflections on their championship season, and the commitment of the players. Topics include high school baseball coaching tactics, the differences between high school and AAU baseball, and the current structure of the MIAA state tournament. Healy shares his views on player development and college recruitment, the benefits of the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association, and his coaching philosophy.
Topics
00:29 Celebrating the Championship Win
01:59 Reflecting on the Championship Season
05:16 Tournament Structure and Intensity
08:05 Player Development and Recruitment
10:36 Coaching Philosophy and Experience
12:50 Challenges in College Recruitment
15:16 Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association
16:16 Professional Networking and Membership Benefits
16:48 Scholarship Programs for High School Students
17:06 Joining the National Federation and Rule Changes
17:42 Annual Coaching Clinic Overview
18:38 Keynote Speakers and Presentations
19:17 Intimate Setting and Networking Opportunities
21:13 Mental Approach to the 2025 Season
23:50 Three Up, Three Down Segment
24:10 The Uniqueness of Baseball Fields
26:31 The Excitement of Baseball Beyond the Game
29:12 The Significance of No-Hitters
31:43 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, hosted by Dan Guttenplan from the New England Baseball Journal, Coach Kevin Graber of Phillips Andover discusses his return to Andover after a two-year stint with the Chicago Cubs. Graber delves into his experiences in professional baseball, his decision to return to the high school level, and his player development philosophy. He reflects on re-establishing team culture at Andover, recounts his managerial journey with the Cubs, and shares insights into baseball's evolving landscape, including player development, the impact of NIL money, and the use of wooden bats. The episode also includes a 'Three Up, Three Down' segment where Graber discusses base-stealing strategies and offers his thoughts on the length of the baseball season.
Topics
- 01:01 Returning to Andover: A Heartfelt Decision
- 02:02 Rebuilding Andover's Baseball Program
- 03:10 Journey with the Chicago Cubs
- 08:59 Base Running Philosophy and Innovations
- 11:24 Coaching New England Talent
- 17:35 Changes in Baseball: NIL Money and Transfer Portal
- 18:22 Navigating the Transfer Portal
- 18:35 Challenges for High School Baseball Players
- 18:56 The Domino Effect in College Baseball
- 19:26 Balancing Baseball and Other Commitments
- 19:34 Coaching Experience and Achievements
- 21:25 Three Up, Three Down: Stealing Bases
- 28:37 Wooden vs. Aluminum Bats
- 30:12 Length of the MLB Season
- 33:45 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation
- 36:19 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
Dan Guttenplan of the BasePath Podcast sits down with Steve Lomasney The Show New England and a former Red Sox prospect, to discuss the changing dynamics of college baseball recruitment. They explore the impact of the NCAA transfer portal on high school recruiting, the evolution of travel baseball, and advise players on successful paths to college and professional baseball. The episode also delves into the experience and rewards of participating in high-profile tournaments like the WWBA World Championships. Concluding with a light-hearted segment, they cover personal baseball experiences and nostalgic reflections on the sport.
Topics
00:35 Evolution of Travel Baseball
01:57 Impact of Transfer Portal on Recruitment
05:00 Advice for Aspiring College Players
07:00 Oversaturation of Travel Baseball
09:03 Showcasing Talent and Recruitment Strategies
12:59 Fall Season and Upcoming Tournaments
17:50 Partnership with the Red Sox
22:52 Three Up, Three Down: Fun Baseball Questions
31:25 Conclusion and Wrap-Up
Coaching High School Baseball with Matt FeldIn this episode of the Base Path Podcast, host Dan Guttenplan interviews journalist and high school baseball coach Matt Feld. Feld shares his experiences from his first season as the head coach at Tewksbury High School, where he was named Merrimack Valley Conference Coach of the Year. The discussion covers the differences between coaching high school and club baseball, strategies for development, and the challenges of managing athletes who play multiple sports. Feld also talks about the oversaturation of travel baseball, the importance of college recruiting relationships, and the impact of recent NCAA rule changes on recruiting timelines. The episode concludes with a light-hearted debate segment called 'Three Up, Three Down' on various baseball topics.
Topics
00:33 Matt Feld's Coaching Journey
01:30 High School vs. Club Baseball
04:06 Travel Baseball Insights
09:32 NCAA Recruiting Rules and Impact
18:16 Upcoming Events and Fall Plans
23:25 Three Up, Three Down Debate
32:45 Conclusion and Farewell
In this episode of the Base Path podcast, Dan Guttenplan interviews Pat Vigilio, founder and director of Baseball U CT, about the intricacies of travel baseball. Since 2006, Baseball U CT has developed numerous college-level players through rigorous training, open tryouts, and a focus on producing well-rounded student-athletes. Pat discusses the program's comprehensive approach, including their mental performance academy to help players handle the pressures of the sport and modern challenges like social media. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of college baseball recruitment and the impact of the transfer portal.
Topics
00:17 The World of Travel Baseball with Pat Vigilio
01:37 Challenges and Realities of Travel Baseball
02:28 Player Development and Recruitment Strategies
04:23 The Importance of Practice and Mental Toughness
06:39 Balancing Expectations and Realities in Youth Sports
18:40 The Role of Mental Performance in Baseball
26:09 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Quotes Discussion
34:09 Conclusion and Farewell
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, hosted by Dan Guttenplan, the guest is renowned New England baseball figure Ace Adams. Inducted into the Cape League Hall of Fame, Ace discusses his extensive career as a pitching instructor, including his time with the Boston Red Sox and the New England Roughnecks. The conversation delves into the current state of travel baseball, the emphasis on velocity over control, and the risks of over-pitching young players. Ace shares insights on the financial costs of competitive baseball, recruiting trends influenced by the transfer portal and NIL money, and his own coaching philosophy focused on fundamentals and player protection. The episode also includes anecdotes about baseball legends like Derek Jeter and Tom Brady, and reflections on the changing dynamics of professional and college baseball.
Topics
00:55 The State of Travel Baseball
01:50 Challenges in Youth Baseball
03:47 Financial Barriers in Baseball
04:57 Impact of Transfer Portal and NIL in College Baseball
06:15 Cape League Memories and Changes
09:12 Recruiting Derek Jeter and Tom Brady
12:20 Teaching Cliff Lee the Cutter
15:08 Roger Clemens and Tom Seaver's Influence
17:03 The Mental Makeup of Dustin Pedroia
18:17 Coaching Philosophy for High School Pitchers
20:33 Dealing with Parents and Pitching Strategies
21:56 Reflecting on a Career in Baseball
24:22 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Quotes
29:35 Cape League Hall of Fame and Closing Remarks
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, brought to you by New England Baseball Journal, newly appointed Vanderbilt assistant coach Jayson King joins the show. King, previously the head coach of the Dayton Flyers since 2008, shares his experiences and insights about his new role under head coach Tim Corbin at Vanderbilt. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from a head coach to an assistant coach at a top-level program. The conversation also touches on the impact of the transfer portal and NIL money on college baseball, his relationship with Tim Corbin, and the recruitment strategy at Vanderbilt. The episode concludes with a segment called 'Three Up, Three Down,' where King answers fun and thought-provoking questions.
Topics
00:31 Transition to Vanderbilt: Coach King's Journey
01:38 State of College Baseball and Mid-Majors
02:57 Relationship with Tim Corbin
03:55 High Stakes at Vanderbilt
05:32 Recruiting and NIL Money
13:34 Impact of Transfer Portal
17:11 New Leadership at Dayton
18:52 Resources and Facilities at Vanderbilt
25:11 Three Up, Three Down: Fun Q&A
31:15 Conclusion and Farewell
Dan welcomes Mike Gambino to discuss his move from coaching at Boston College to Penn State. They delve into the challenges and differences between the two institutions, highlighting the support from the community and administration at Penn State. Gambino speaks about the success of his first season, the importance of player development, and his approach to the transfer portal. The conversation also touches on recruiting strategies, the future of the Big Ten Conference, and personal anecdotes, including experiences with leaving BC and special memories involving his dad. The episode wraps up with a fun 'Three Up, Three Down' segment discussing knuckleballs, steals of home, and the best World Series memories.
Topics
00:42 Transition from Boston College to Penn State
03:04 Experiences and Challenges at Penn State
06:17 First Season Performance and Expectations
08:44 Establishing Leadership and Trust
12:56 Leaving Boston College and Family Considerations
16:02 Big Ten vs ACC: Comparisons and Future Outlook
19:41 Recruiting Strategies and New England Connections
20:30 Pennsylvania's Baseball Passion
21:10 Recruiting Strategies and Successes
22:20 Coaching Transitions and Reflections
24:41 The Changing Landscape of College Baseball
27:19 Transfer Portal Strategies
29:19 Three Up, Three Down: Fun Baseball Questions
34:16 Memorable World Series Moments
37:53 Conclusion and Farewell
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, host Dan Guttenplan is joined by MIAA analyst Pat Donnelly to preview the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) state championship weekend. They discuss the matchups and key players for Divisions 1 through 5, including standout teams like BC High, St. John Shrewsbury, and Seekonk. The conversation also covers potential MIA Player of the Year candidates, highlighting performances and injuries that could impact the finals. Additionally, the show features a 'Three Up, Three Down' segment with producer David Yas, where they debate the merits of recent innovations in baseball such as the shift ban, the automatic runner on second base in extra innings, and in-stadium light shows.
Topics
00:22 Overview of the MIAA Championship Weekend
01:04 Division 1 Championship Preview
08:22 Division 2 Championship Preview
11:24 Division 3 Championship Preview
13:21 Division 4 Championship Preview
15:42 Division 5 Championship Preview
19:39 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Innovations
30:17 Closing Remarks and Farewell
Braintree High School Coach Bill O'Connell discusses his team's strong season, securing the number four seed in the Massachusetts MIAA Division 1 State Tournament. O'Connell elaborates on the team's dynamics, crediting seniors and a balanced roster while sharing insights from his extensive coaching career, including past tournament experiences. He also touches on the intricacies of baseball strategy, the unpredictability of single elimination tournaments, and the impact of legendary Braintree coach Don Fredericks. Additionally, O'Connell talks about his role in selecting and coaching Team Massachusetts for the High School National Championship and his summer plans running the Extra Bases Summer Baseball Camp. The episode concludes with a fun 'Three Up, Three Down' segment where both guest and host discuss memorable baseball moments and strategies.
Topics
00:59 Season Recap and Tournament Outlook
02:19 Challenges and Unpredictability in Baseball
04:31 Key Teams and Tournament Predictions
06:32 Legacy of Don Fredericks
08:01 Coaching Team Massachusetts
16:16 Summer Plans and Extra Bases Camp
22:44 Three Up, Three Down Segment
32:35 Closing Remarks
Dan Guttenplan sits down with MIAA analyst Pat Donnelly to preview the state baseball tournament. Pat shares insights from the regular season, including standout teams like BC High, St. John's Shrewsbury, and Westford Academy, emphasizing the importance of strong pitching. The episode delves into potential candidates for MIAA Player of the Year. They also analyze tournament brackets for all five divisions, making predictions and discussing possible upsets. In a fun concluding segment, Dan and Pat engage in a Major League Baseball ballpark fantasy draft, picking their favorite ballparks.
Topics
00:51 Key Takeaways from the Regular Season
01:45 MIAA Player of the Year Nominations
02:47 Player Profiles
12:36 Division 1 Bracket Breakdown
16:58 Division 2 Bracket Breakdown
19:14 Division 3 Playoff Predictions
20:41 Division 4 Contenders and Predictions
23:06 Division 5 Insights and Picks
24:47 State Finals Schedule and Coverage
25:27 Three Up Three Down: MLB Ballpark Fantasy Draft
The guest is John Pollard, coach of the Austin Prep baseball team, who explores the team's remarkable success, especially after transitioning to the NEPSAC league. Pollard shares insights into the undefeated seasons, challenges of moving to a new league, and the school's comprehensive approach to player development both on and off the field. The conversation also touches on the strategic aspects of baseball, such as the importance of mental preparation for high-stake games and postseason differences. .
Topics:
00:23 Unbeaten Streaks and Transitioning to a NEPSAC Program
02:13 Challenges and Opportunities of Being Independent
04:44 Building a Winning Team Identity
07:02 Fostering College and Professional Opportunities for Players
10:59 Expanding the Program: JV Teams and Baseball Operations
13:22 Navigating High School Baseball's Competitive Landscape
16:14 Leveraging Facilities and Creating a Supportive Environment
21:20 Transitioning from High School to College Baseball
21:40 Preparing for Life Beyond Baseball
22:13 Academic and Athletic Excellence at Austin Prep
22:45 Evolving Recruitment and Admissions Standards
23:36 Setting High Standards for Austin Prep Athletes
25:15 Navigating Off-Season Training Regulations
28:55 Three Up, Three Down: A Fun Baseball Q&A
36:18 The Mental Game: Preparing for High-Pressure Situations
40:31 Wrapping Up with Coach John Pollard
This episode of the Base Path podcast, hosted by Dan Guttenplan and produced by Seamans Media, features Worcester Academy's baseball coach Mike Abraham. In his first season, Abraham led the team to a central New England Prep League championship. The discussion spans the team's preparation and mindset, contrasting the current season with the previous, and delves into the competitive nature of the New England prep baseball scene. Additionally, insights into the development and scouting of young talent are shared. The podcast also touches on the wider New England baseball landscape, including team strategies, standout players and teams, and the impact of familial sports backgrounds on coaching philosophies.
Topics:
00:15 Introducing Mike Abraham: A Season of Success
00:42 The Challenges and Changes of the New Season
01:44 Reflecting on Last Year's Tournament and Lessons Learned
03:22 Scouting the Competition: Deerfield, Dexter, and Cushing
07:13 The Strategy for Playoff Pitching
08:13 Managing a Top Prospect: Maverick Rizy's Journey
11:19 The Competitive Edge of Cushing Academy
12:50 Exploring Prep Baseball and ISL Tournaments
14:24 A Unique Training Experience with the Red Sox
16:32 Growing Up in a Sports-Driven Family
17:51 Looking Ahead: Summer Plans with NAB
19:27 Thoughts on Perfect Game and NIL Implications
20:15 Wrapping Up and Good Luck Wishes
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, hosted by Dan Guttenplan and produced by New England Baseball Journal, Avon Old Farms head baseball coach Rob Dowling discusses the key factors behind the substantial success of his team in New England prep baseball. With a history of winning 17 Colonial and Founders League championships since 1996, Coach Dowling shares insights into the team's strong pitching lineup, talent acquisition, and the impact of preseason training in Florida. In addition, the conversation covers the increased competitiveness in prep baseball, the holistic experience offered by Avon Old Farms, player commitments to top colleges like Vanderbilt, and the educational value of athletics. The podcast also delves into baseball rules, coaching philosophies, the use of technology in the sport, and the discussion ends with a playful 'three up, three down' Q&A segment.
00:15 Spotlight on Avon Old Farms' Baseball Success
00:50 The Key to Early Season Success
02:33 The Impact of the Pandemic on Prep Baseball
02:42 Building a Competitive Team: Recruitment and Training
05:12 A Closer Look at Avon's Star Players
19:41 Navigating the Transfer Portal and College Recruitment
22:26 Personal Insights: Coaching Philosophy and Family Life
25:06 'Three Up, Three Down': Baseball Memories and Superstitions
In this episode of the Base Path Podcast by New England Baseball Journal, hosted by Dan Guttenplan with MIAA reporter Pat Donnelly, the hosts dive into the first half of the MIAA baseball season. The discussion includes power rankings updates, standout teams and players, a controversy involving Andover and pitcher Chris Gillette, and an in-depth analysis of the top teams across different divisions. They also delve into the intricacies of the MIAA power rankings and make predictions for the season based on current performances. In the 'Three Up, Three Down' segment the hosts tackle unprepared questions about baseball robots, listening to baseball on the radio, and describing baseball to someone unfamiliar with the sport.
Topics
00:32 Mid-Season MIAA Baseball Highlights
00:43 The Andover Pitching Controversy
02:33 Power Rankings and Team Performances Discussion
04:13 Deep Dive into Divisional Power Rankings
05:46 Spotlight on Surprising Teams and Upcoming Contenders
11:35 Exploring Division 2 and 3 Standouts
15:33 Division 4 and 5 Insights: Teams to Watch
17:08 MIAA Player of the Year Contenders and Predictions
23:12 Three Up, Three Down: A Fun Q&A Segment
The guest is John West, a senior pitcher from Boston College and a Shrewsbury native. West discusses his final season, reflecting on the team's performance and his own growth. The conversation highlights the impact of the coaching change at BC, West's brief entry into the transfer portal, and his adjustment to a new coaching style. They delve into the significance of the annual ALS awareness game at Fenway Park, sharing West's personal connection to ALS and the broader impact of the Ice Bucket Challenge on ALS awareness. West also comments on the changes in college baseball recruitment and the dynamics of the transfer portal, offering a thoughtful look at the current state of the sport. The exchange concludes with a light-hearted 'three up three down' segment exploring West's baseball journey and memories.
2024 ALS Awareness Game: https://bceagles.com/sports/2024/3/18/2024-als-awareness-game
Topics:
00:11 John West's Stellar Season and Team Dynamics
01:13 Navigating Coaching Changes and the Transfer Portal
03:35 Adapting to New Coaching Styles and Baseball Strategies
05:53 ALS Awareness Game and Personal Connection
09:42 The Journey from High School to College Baseball
11:53 Reflecting on the Impact of Travel Ball and Legion Ball
14:31 Discussing MLB Trends and Injury Concerns
17:03 Looking Ahead: Draft Prospects and Career Decisions
25:12 Three Up, Three Down: Baseball Favorites and Memories
30:16 Closing Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-Up
Coach Eric Cirella of Salve Regina, a top-ranked D3 college baseball program, is the guest. Cirella attributes the team's success to quality recruiting, a talented coaching staff, and the program's development over years. Salve Regina offers a blend of competitive athletics and academic excellence, with Newport, Rhode Island's location being a significant draw.
Cirella reflects on his baseball journey, including playing under his father at Salve Regina and his brief stint in professional baseball, which shaped his coaching career. He emphasizes building relationships and adapting coaching strategies from various mentors.
The conversation covers Salve Regina's recruiting strategy, focusing on talent that Division I programs overlook, and cultivating a mindset of determination and improvement in athletes.
Dan Guttenplan and Pat Donnelly break down the field in prep baseball for the 2024 season.
The guest is Putnam Science Academy Coach Bob Hetu, who has spent the last 29 years as a coach, mentor and on-field fundamental strategist. In 2022 he took over the baseball program at Putnam Science Academy in Putnam, Conn. Hetu previously was head coach in a three-year stint (2019-2021) with St. Thomas More. Putnam Science Academy cut its baseball program in 2013 so Putnam’s arrival in 2022 represented a rebirth.
A 1990 graduate of Princeton University, Matt Noone is in his 22nd season as head coach of Babson's baseball program. In 21 seasons, Noone has won more than 400 games and made seven postseason appearances, which includes leading the Beavers' first trip to the Division III College World Series in 2019.
The guest is former three-time state champion coach at Lincoln Sudbury Kirk Fredericks, a recent inductee to the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Today, we’re going to preview the college baseball season with former Northeastern University and Cape League pitcher Jordy Allard.
Allard's career accomplishments include:
- Former Gatorade Vermont HS Player of the Year
- Started college career at SNHU
- Transferred to Babson, where he earned 2021 New England Pitcher of the Year
- Transferred to Northeastern, where he posted a 2.16 ERA over 50 innings in 2022.
- Earned Cape League’s Top New England Prospect Award in 2022 with Hyannis Harbor Hawks
- Finished career last spring in an injury-plagued final season at Northeastern
Anthony Giano was named the head coach of the varsity baseball program at Cheshire Academy in 2021.
Giano has worked at CA since 2015, including as assistant coach of the varsity and junior varsity baseball programs. He has nearly 30 years of coaching experience.
Philadelphia Phillies GM and New Hampshire native Sam Fuld joins the show to talk about offseason moves, the highs and lows of his playing career and the most exciting play in baseball.
Thayer Academy's James Pierce is the guest. Pierce recently finished his first season as head coach in 2023 after serving as a longtime assistant.
The guest is Ryan Klosterman, who is entering his fifth season as the head coach of the Bryant Baseball program.
Klosterman was a 2021 Northeast Conference Coach of the Year, and his team is competing in the America East Conference for the second season.
MIT Pitching Coach Todd Carroll, a former 20 year college baseball coach, and more recently a pitching coordinator for a minor league affiliate for the Seattle Mariners, served as the MIT pitching coach from 2012 to 2022, a stretch in which the engineers won three local championships and advanced to five NCAA Regionals.
The Boston Pitching Congress is December 2nd, 8AM to 12:30PM at Donohue's bar and grill in Watertown MA.
Email Todd for more info at tcarroll@mariners.com
The guest is Wake Forest Coach Tom Walter. His squad went into the College World Series last year ranked number one. Last year's Demon Deacons finished the 2023 season with program records in regular season wins with 45, as well as overall wins with 54. This season's team made the program's third College World Series appearance and its first since winning the program's first national championship in 1955.
Bridgton Academy coach Aaron Izaryk discusses his team's fall schedule, which runs approximately eight weeks, including practices and games.
The guest is Nick Barese, who became head coach of UMass Lowell when Ken Harring resigned at the end of July.
Barese, the former head coach at Merrimack, spent the past two seasons as an assistant to Harring, whose exit came after the school authorized an independent investigation that cleared him from claims of racial discrimination toward a player.
Mavrick Rizy is one of New England's top prep prospects in the class of 2024, a right-handed pitcher from Worcester Academy. He joins the show to share his story while in the midst of finishing up a busy summer of showcases across the country.
The guest is Chris Shank, new head coach of the three-time defending NCAA East Region Champion SNHU Penmen. Shank previously coached at Eastern Nazarene College, guiding the Lions to a 62-45-1 record over four seasons.
The in-studio guests are Milton High Coach Brendan Morrissey and his star player Owen McHugh, who earned MIA Player of the Year honors from the New England Baseball Journal.
Todd Interdonato was named Boston College's baseball coach this past Monday. He previously spent 16 years as Wofford baseball’s head coach. Interdonato discusses his enthusiastic vision for BC and recounts his path to Chestnut Hill.
Dan Guttenplan and Matt Feld preview the MIAA Championship games to be played this weekend at Polar Park in Worcester.
In the thick of the MIAA tournament, Matt Feld and Dan Guttenplan break down the various divisions and make a few predictions.
Baseball America's Peter Flaherty joins the show to cover a host of topics on college baseball.
The guest is Massachusetts Baseball Umpires Association President Dom DiMari, who is part of a group that is asking for stronger protections from parents upset over their children's games.
The guest is Phillips-Andover Coach Chris Powers. Prior to taking the job last year, Powers guided the Pingree baseball program to a record of 179-88 over 12 seasons.
Matt Feld joins Dan Guttenplan for a number of takeaways gathered from the first half of the MIAA season.
Red Sox legend Larry Lucchino is the guest. He served as the president during a historic 14-year period from 2002 to 2015. In 2015, he was part of a group that purchased Boston's longtime AAA affiliate and moved that franchise to the city of Worcester.
The guest is Endicott College Coach Brian Haley, who has led his squad thus far to a stellar 19-4 record.
The guest is Boston College recruiting coordinator Kevin Vance who joins the show to talk about his program’s terrific 2023 season and a host of other hardball issues.
The guest is recently retired coach Mike Grant, who assembled a staggering 124-27 record as coach at Belmont Hill.
Chris Colabello is a rising star as a hitting instructor in the world of baseball. Co-founder of the hitting and fitness assessment platform Pelotero, he is a former Assumption star who cracked MLB at the age of 29. He had a standout season in 2015 for the Toronto Blue Jays, hitting .321 with 15 home runs.
The guest is Steve August, a former Red Sox assistant general manager, and the founder of the New England Roughneck Travel Ball Program.
Dan and Matt are joined by James Cramphin, Head Baseball Coach at The Governor's Academy in Byfield, MA.
Chris Pollard is the head baseball coach of the Duke Blue Devils. Pollard played at Davidson for head coach Dick Cooke from 1993 to 1996 before playing professionally in 1996.
Braintree High School Coach Bill O'Connell has built one of the most consistent high school programs in Massachusetts. He was named the Boston Herald Coach of the Decade for the period running from 2010 to 2019.
The guest is former BB&N standout Rhett Wiseman, who went on to play for Vanderbilt and professionally in the Washington Nationals organization.
Philip DiBlasi's baseball dreams were postponed when he was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a type of cancer most commonly found in the cerebellum, the part of the brain located at the back of the skull. After surgery to remove the tumor, Phil looks to return to Northeastern and to baseball.
Josh MacDonald joined UConn in 2012 and enters his 12th season as Husky pitching coach in 2023. MacDonald is part of the longest tenured coaching staff in Division I baseball.
Mike Gambino has been head baseball coach at Boston College since 2010. He brought the Eagles to the program’s first NCAA Tournament in seven years in 2016 and back-to-back Atlantic Coast Conference Championship appearances. Since 2016, BC has appeared in three out of four ACC tournaments for the first time since joining the league in 2006.
Dave Gealsen is the founder and CEO of 3 Step Sports.
The 3STEP reach spans 40+ states and serves more than 3.2 million athletes across nine sports through events, nationally spanning club programs, media content and more.
More at https://threestep.com/
UMass Head Coach Matt Reynolds joins the show to talk about his coaching philosophies; the dynamic of seeking players with strong academics and what he looks for in a ballplayer. As a player, Reynolds himself was an infielder and captain for UMass.
GBG Hawks Northeast Director of Baseball Operations Joe Breen joins the show to share the pluses and minuses of playing travel baseball.
Co-hosts Dan Guttenplan and Matt Feld discuss the pros, cons and secrets of Travel Baseball.
Tucker Frawley played prep and D1 college baseball in New England, and is now working in player development for a professional franchise. He made his name in the coaching ranks at Yale, where he developed one of the nation's top defensive teams and established a national following. He is now charged with developing the Minnesota Twins top draft picks while molding the organization's overall defensive philosophy.
Loomis Chaffee's Donnie McKillop joined the school in 2017 as the assistant athletic director and head varsity baseball coach. He joins the show to talk about this year's squad, what factors prepare a player for college ball, and how he managed to coach after a shocking family tragedy.
Coach Jason King of the Dayton Flyers joins the show to talk about his journey from New England baseball to the midwest.
Hosts Dan Guttenplan and Matt Feld are joined in studio by Franklin High School Head Coach Zack Brown. Coach Brown led Franklin to a Super 8 Championship in 2018, and seems to have the Panthers in the mix for a state championship every year.
What do you do when a big league career doesn’t quite pan out? If you’re Connecticut native Jimmy Titus, you coach others to succeed. Titus played in the Dodgers and Mets organizations before being sidelined by injury. Now, he’s teaching both private instruction and works with Tater Baseball to coach others.
John DeRouin has served as a Pitching Coordinator at Hop’s Athletic Performance in Rhode Island as well as for the travel program, North East Baseball. He talks with us to discuss how he helps pitchers develop, and what he can do to help them achieve their goals.
Brian Hamm is the new Head Men’s Baseball Coach at Yale University in New Haven, Conn. He joins Yale after winning a Division III championship with Eastern Connecticut State University. Coach Hamm joins Dan Guttenplan and Matt Feld to discuss his new job and what winning means to him.
We travel to Hartford, Conn., to interview some of the coaches and a player at the 14th Annual Kelly Rodman Memorial Summer Rivalry Classic, an event that shows off some of the top high school and college baseball players. You’ll hear from Yankees scout Matt Hyde, Red Sox scout Ray Fagnant, and Norwood High School MLB prospect Jack Cropper in this fun podcast with interviews straight from the field.
Ben Brutti of South Kingstown High School in Rhode Island has just been drafted by the Cincinnati Reds. What’s it like to be a high schooler with a MLB deal? How does it feel to make $400,000 when you’re still so young? Host Dan Guttenplan interviews Ben to find out.
Tom Tanous is the New York Mets Vice President of Amateur and International Scouting. The New England native joins us to talk about the just-passed trade deadline as well as what he looks for when he's scouting talent.
Coach Mike Glavine from Northeastern University joins The Base Path to talk about his recently-finished season and what it was like having three players drafted by Major League Baseball. The Billerica native also talks about growing up with a famous brother - Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Glavine.
Worcester Academy announced last week the hire of a new coach to replace Jim McNamara. A former St. John’s Shrewsbury standout and current North East Baseball coach Mike Abraham accepted the position. He'll take over a squad that went 14-8 and returns two Division 1 commits. He joins The Base Path to discuss the challenges that lie ahead, and why he loves Worcester so much.
Lawrence Academy won its first ISL championship since 2011 this spring, under the tutelage of Coach Chris Margraf. The team went 17-4-1, and sealed the ISL championship with a no-hitter against Tabor. Coach Margraf joins us to talk about his Groton-based team and what it took to win.
Blair Bourque is the head coach at Taunton High, and he recently led his team to a Massachusetts Division 1 state championship. His team clinched the championship with a victory over top-seeded Franklin, a Hockomock League rival. He joins us via Zoom.
We sit down with one of the most accomplished prep school coaches in New England – Winchendon head coach John Toffey. John came to Winchendon in 2018 after leading Salisbury School and Cheshire Academy to a combined record of 135-9 and eight conference championships. He is now well into the process of building Winchendon into one of the region’s top developmental programs for aspiring college baseball players. 15 Winchendon players are currently committed to playing college baseball.
A special treat this podcast, as we’re joined by Tim Foley, the play-by-play voice of the Harwich Mariners of the Cape Cod Baseball League. Foley guides us through the different ways to enjoy the league, including batting clinics for the youngsters and the best places to get food! Whether you’re a longtime fan of the league or a newcomer, Foley gives you the lay of the land and tells you which teams have the best and most family-friendly parks.
One of the favorites heading into the MIAA D1 state tournament is Boston College High. The team’s new head coach, Steve Healy joins us to discuss the potential pairings, and which teams he’d like to see — and avoid — in the tournament.
Katie Krall is just the second woman coach in the history of the Red Sox organization. The club hired her to serve as the player development coach at Double-A Portland, and she works with the Red Sox players on improving their game. Katie enjoys her work, but says sexism is still a real problem in the game. She joins Dan Guttenplan to talk about her experience breaking barriers with the Sox.
We have two guests from Nor’Easters Baseball in studio for our podcast – Nor’Easters founder Tim Daneau and Operations Coordinator Matt Feld. Matt also covers all of the biggest games in Massachusetts high school baseball for the Boston Herald, and he’ll size up the top teams and players heading into the MIAA state tournament.
Austin Prep Head Coach Jonathan Pollard joins the podcast to talk about what makes his program special, and how he helps students find the right match. Pollard has a unique approach that combines the students’ skills with their personalities. Find out more in this edition of The Base Path.
Our guest is the coach of the number three ranked junior college (JuCo) team in the nation, Northern Essex Community College’s Jeff Mejia. He arrived at Northern Essex as the Knights’ head coach in the 2013 season. Since then, the team has been crowned New England regional champions six times, district champions five times and earned five bids to the NJCAA World Series.
Want to add speed to your fastball? How about adding velocity to your swing? Winning Pitchers Academy in Framingham, Mass. claims to have the recipe — and it is proving it. We talk with Winning Pitchers Academy trainers John Miller and Jamie Aldoupolis about how they get their students to give their all.
The Massachusetts high school baseball season is underway, and our guest is a Hall of Fame coach whose team played for a state championship last season. Hopkinton High School Coach Steve Simoes was inducted to the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame earlier this year. Last spring, he led Hopkinton to the D2 state championship game, and he also has experience coaching Legion and college baseball. Enjoy his thoughts on the state of the game after a legendary career.
Baseball season is underway in New England! Most high school, prep and Little League teams kicked off the season in the last week. Today, we preview the prep season with the coach of the top-ranked team in New England. Phillips Andover coach Kevin Graber will be joining us. Under Graber, Andover has won four league championships. This is the fourth season in which the Big Blue have started the season as the number one ranked prep program in New England.
A special! We’re out of the studio and into the field! We visited UConn in Storrs, Conn., to talk with Coach Jim Penders, leading prospect Reggie Crawford who is recovering from Tommy John surgery and slugging pitcher Erik Stock who transferred to UConn from Old Dominion. Enjoy this report from UConn’s baseball field, recorded during batting practice.
Thayer Academy's AD and Varsity Baseball Coach Rick Foresteire has been leading prep sports since the 1990s. Having coached at Buckingham, Browne and Nichols and Thayer, Foresteire has decided it's time to move on from the game and seek new adventures. In this podcast, he explains to Dan Guttenplan why he chose to make the move, and what he has seen change in the game throughout his career.
Bentley University’s Bob DeFelice, the longest tenured coach across all levels of college baseball, is entering his final season in 2022. In this podcast, Coach DeFelice tells us what he has learned across 54 years of Division II coaching, his life as Bentley’s only baseball coach, and how he almost became a career football coach instead.
Ryan Leahy’s baseball journey is as complex as any you’ve heard of. He started as a player, making his way to the L.A. Angels, when he was diagnosed with recurring thyroid cancer. Not letting the illness define him, Leahy won the Angels’ 2008 Courage Award and was friends with BU’s Pete Frates, whose ALS diagnosis brought New Englanders together. Leahy has gone on to scout for MLB and found Recruiting Edge, a consultancy for students looking to get an honest assessment and the best match for their baseball careers.
In this edition, we’re joined by Vanderbilt Commodores Head Coach Tim Corbin. A native of Wolfeboro, N.H., helped lift Vanderbilt to national championships in 2014 and 2019. Over his 20-year career at Vanderbilt, Corbin has led his teams to a record of 802-377-1 – good for a winning percentage of .680. His message boils down to not “over-coaching” and “letting the kids play.”
Milton High Baseball’s Head Coach Brendan Morrissey has established one of the top ten programs in New England. Not only is the club successful, but it also has 10 players on its roster on track to play college ball. Here, he and Dan talk about running about a great program and dealing with Covid.
John Stuper, the winningest head coach in the history of baseball at Yale, will be retiring after this season, marking 30 years with the Bulldogs. Stuper won a crucial World Series game for the St. Louis Cardinals game in 1982 as a pitcher. Here, he passes along stories, his thoughts about MLB today, and his wisdom about the game in this entertaining podcast
No one in the Boston area has made a bigger impact on Black and Latino youth baseball players than today’s guest Robert Lewis Jr. In 2013, Robert founded The BASE, an organization that leverages the power and passion of baseball to help student athletes find pathways to success both on and off the field. Since 2013, the organization has helped student-athletes earn $45 million in scholarships and financial aid. Robert will share how he and his athletes have faced instances of racism and continued to strive toward their goals.
We’re joined in this podcast by Ray Fagnant, Northeast Regional Scouting Supervisor for the Boston Red Sox. Ray shares his insight into the scouting process and what kind of player the Red Sox are looking to add. A veteran of the scouting process, Ray shares his stories of life on the road, hunting for great ballplayers,
Rhode Island’s Ryan Westmoreland was all set to play for the Red Sox, when tragedy struck. The 2010 draft pick was struck down by two brain bleeds that brought his nascent career to an untimely end. But that hasn’t stopped Ryan from being involved in the game. Listen to his fascinating, inspiring story in this podcast.
University of Maine Black Bears’ Head Coach Nick Derba joins us via Zoom in this edition of the podcast. Nick has the Black Bears on an upward trajectory toward contending for an America East Conference title. Last year, Maine opened the America East baseball playoffs with a win over top-seeded Stony Brook before eventually falling in the conference semifinals. Nick talks about his pitch to potential players who he’d like to see on the Black Bears.
No two young athletes are alike, and no two strength training programs should be alike. Greg Robins, co-owner and head of athlete development at The Strength House in Worcester, joins us to discuss how he assesses young athletes and helps them develop with a smart training program.
Our guest is a strength trainer and pitching coach for the top high school prospect in New England. Logan Carman is the East Coast Evo Director of Player Performance and Winnacunnet High School pitching coach.
Carman has helped Winnicunnet's Joe Allen become the top high school pitching prospect in New England by putting together a training program that helped the pitcher boost his maximum velocity from 89 mph to 95 mph. Allen showcased his new skill set this summer for USA Baseball’s National Team as well as at the Area Code Games and East Coast Pro Showcase.
Coach Jeff Sullivan of NEB National joins us today, coming off a win in the Perfect Game 18U New England Fall World Series. Coach Sullivan talks about what he looks for in a player, and how being a big follower of the baseball draft has led him to his career.
In this edition of the New England Baseball Journal Podcast, Fairfield University’s Coach Bill Currier and ace pitcher Michael Sansone join Dan Guttenplan to discuss their outstanding 2021 season and much more. Coach Currier has led the Fairfield through its best decade in program history. Sansone is a rising star who won Cape Cod League All-Star honors this past summer, and won all-MAAC first team honors last spring. Hear about their great stories in this engaging, fast-paced podcast.
Steve Lomasney, who was with the Red Sox in the '90s and '00s, is now grooming the next generation of baseball players with his academy, The Show. He also talks about the freak injury that effectively ended his career as catcher just as it was starting. Folks from Peabody will know Steve from his days as a star at Peabody High, too. Enjoy this great conversation.
Today’s guest is former big leaguer Matt Antonelli, a Peabody, Massachusetts native who was recently hired as the new head coach at Bishop Fenwick on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Matt was drafted in the first round of the 2006 MLB Draft by the San Diego Padres out of Wake Forest University.
Today’s guest is newly hired Merrimack College head coach Brian Murphy. Coach Murphy is the seventh head coach in Merrimack program history. The Massachusetts native returns home to North Andover after he had four 30-win seasons with William & Mary, five CAA-Tournament appearances and the school’s first NCAA Tournament at-large bid.
Bill Decker is a coach in one of the only conferences that cancelled its 2021 season due to the pandemic. Coach Decker’s influence on the game has crossed NCAA divisions and spanned decades. Before his 10-year stint at Harvard, Coach Decker helped Trinity College become a Division 3 power. In his 22 seasons with the Bantams, he became the all time winningest coach in program history. His 2008 national championship team went 45-1.
New York Yankees scout Matt Hyde was named to New England Baseball Journal’s list of the 50 Most Influential People back in 2019. Matt recently helped direct the Summer Rivalry Classic --- a showcase event for some of the top high school and college prospects in New England. He assembled the rosters and managed the Yankees scout team at Fenway Park. Host Dan Guttenplan talks with Matt about his path to becoming a scouting director and his thoughts on some of the top 2022 MLB Draft prospects from New England.
Dan Duquette is a two-time Major League Baseball Executive of the Year. He is credited for being the architect of the great Montreal Expos teams in the early 1990s, with Vladimir Guerrero and Larry Walker. He then served as GM of the Red Sox from 1994 to 2002. He last served as a MLB GM with the Baltimore Orioles from 2012 to 2018.
Today’s guest is credited with changing the way we teach players to hit. Hudson, N.H., native Bobby Tewksbary uses metrics like exit velocity and launch angle to teach the mechanics of the baseball swing.
Vanderbilt slugger Dom Keegan will share his draft experience. Dominic slipped to the 19th round of the MLB Draft before getting selected by the Yankees. He chose to turn down a 6-figure signing bonus for a chance to compete for a national championship at Vanderbilt.
Justin Blood comes to Keene State from the University of Hartford, where he has spent the last 10 seasons as head coach, revitalizing a program that went 6-43-1 the season prior to his arrival.
Rob Murray took over as the Noble and Greenough School baseball coach in 2013 and has since helped turn the program into one of the model outfits in the Independent School League.
New England baseball fans might remember Sebastian Keane as the local kid who turned down an opportunity to sign a six-figure contract with the Red Sox out of high school.
Matt Blake grew up a Red Sox fan in Concord, New Hampshire and played college baseball at Holy Cross from 2003-'07. In 2020, the Yankees hired Blake as their new pitching coach (replacing Larry Rothschild).
It’s not often a Major League Baseball scout will share insights on draft prospects just a month before the draft, but Detroit Tigers Northeast scouting supervisor Jim Bretz did just that on the most recent New England Baseball Journal Podcast.
Milton Academy and Northeast baseball Head Coach Matt Petherick speaks with host Dan Guttenplan about the upcoming prep school season and talks about his most talented players. New England Baseball Journal editor Mike Zhe discuss what to expect in the next NEBJ publication.
With baseball being played all over New England, it finally feels like the COVID storm is passing, and we’re excited to be back covering the game we love. We have a guest today that fits with the theme of a return to normal, Cape Cod League Commissioner Eric Zmuda. He’ll tell us what we can expect on the Cape this summer from some of the nation’s top college players. Seamans Media editor Mike Zhe also talks about the state of baseball in New England and how we plan to cover it.
In the most recent New England Baseball Journal Podcast, Gammons talks with host Dan Guttenplan about the top New England prospects heading into what should be a fruitful 2021 MLB Draft for locals. In fact, when MLB released its 2021 MLB Draft Top 100 Prospects list, six players with New England ties ranked among the top 45 players.
For the latest New England Baseball Journal Podcast, host Dan Guttenplan connects with UConn coach Jim Penders to sort through the state of college baseball during the pandemic. The four-time conference Coach of the Year shares how his team dealt with no less than a dozen positive COVID-19 tests among players this fall.
Our latest New England Baseball Journal podcast includes two guests who are extremely familiar with the current scouting landscape in the region.
North Attleboro High senior Dennis Colleran, the top pitching prospect in New England, and UMass Lowell coach Ken Harring join podcast host Dan Guttenplan to talk about the baseball landscape.
We welcome two guests to this podcast. The first is Northeastern University baseball coach Mike Glavine. Mike will tell us how the pandemic has impacted college baseball, how his players trained over the last four months, and how he plans to recruit New England players in the coming months.
Our second guest is Boston College pro prospect Sal Frelick, who is playing in the Futures League with the North Shore Navigators this summer. Sal is a potential first-round talent for the 2021 MLB Draft. He talks about his rise to prominence at BC, the disappointment of the shortened 2020 college season, and how he plans to prepare for the most important year of his baseball life.
We welcome two guests to this podcast. The first is Red Sox regional scouting director Ray Fagnant, who is in charge of scouring the New England region for talent. He will break down the New England scouting scene and talk about the Red Sox draft selections and free agent signings.
Our second guest is North East Baseball founder Scott Patterson. Three former North East Baseball players were selected in the top 57 selections of the 2020 MLB. That makes 10 former North East Baseball players who have been selected in the top 100 picks since 2017. Scott Patterson talks about his program’s development system and what’s on tap for travel ball this summer.
We are excited to introduce the first edition of The New England Baseball Journal Podcast. I’m your host, Dan Guttenplan.
This podcast will be produced bi-weekly, and we plan to bring you interviews with industry experts, up-and-coming athletes and coaches. We also hope to give you context and analytical insight to better understand some of the trends in the game.
For our debut podcast, we have two guests -- one is Futures League Commissioner Joe Paolluci, who can lay out his blueprint for bringing high-level college baseball to New England fans within the month.
Our second guest is New England Baseball Jounal Editor Mike Zhe, who recently put the finishing touches on the Summer Edition of New England Baseball Journal. He’ll share some behind-the-scenes insights on some of the stories we’ve been working on.
Of course, to get more insight on any of the stories or topics you hear discussed on the podcast, visit the New England Baseball Journal website at baseballjournal.com.