The Backside Groundballs Podcast

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Two former college baseball coaches analyze the Major League Baseball and College Baseball through a modern player development scope, combining new age analytics with player development initiatives to explain the game of baseball we see on the field every single night.

Trevor Powers


    • Jun 8, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 59m AVG DURATION
    • 270 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Backside Groundballs Podcast is an incredible show that every baseball fan should check out. Hosted by two individuals who clearly have a deep love and knowledge for the sport, this podcast delivers great content week after week. From their engaging segments to their lively and dynamic conversations, the hosts never fail to keep listeners entertained. The chemistry between them is evident as they bounce off each other with ease, making for a fun and enjoyable listening experience.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the diversity of perspectives brought to the table. With one host being an ex-player and the other an ex-coach, they offer unique insights into the game from different angles. This adds depth and richness to their discussions, making it a valuable resource for both casual fans and those looking to delve deeper into the intricacies of baseball. Their ability to talk about the game as if they are still playing brings an added level of relatability and understanding.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is its ability to provide a comprehensive insight into the world of baseball. From analyzing current MLB games to discussing high school and college levels, there's something for everyone here. The hosts' backgrounds in baseball give them a deep understanding of the sport, allowing them to offer fresh perspectives that may not be covered in mainstream media. Additionally, having guest appearances from professionals like Colin Peluse further enhances the quality of their content and sets them apart from other podcasts.

    While it's difficult to find any major flaws with this podcast, one potential downside could be that it may not cater well to non-baseball fans or those with limited knowledge of the sport. The discussions can sometimes be technical or focused on specific players or teams, which might alienate some listeners who are looking for more general sports content. However, for dedicated baseball enthusiasts, this podcast is nothing short of excellent.

    In conclusion, The Backside Groundballs Podcast is a must-listen for any baseball fan out there. With its engaging hosts, diverse perspectives, and insightful discussions, this podcast stands as one of the best in the genre. Whether you are looking to expand your knowledge of the game or simply want to hear passionate individuals talk about America's favorite pastime, this podcast has it all. Don't miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fascinating world of baseball.



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    Latest episodes from The Backside Groundballs Podcast

    The Hitting Data That Predicts Major League Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 67:47


    A regionals-Sunday BDH that lands on one of the cleanest hitter-evaluation frameworks Trevor's laid out on the pod.The cold open: an insider defense of Tre Phelps after his celebration set off the old-school crowd. Trevor went down to Athens, spent 45 minutes with him off camera, and is on the record about who Tre actually is. Then West Virginia + Steve Sabins make their first program-history trip to Omaha — Sabins is the No. 1 head coach Trevor would hire if he were running a Power Four program right now.The middle of the show is Cristopher Sanchez's historic May — 50.2 scoreless innings, near-Hershiser territory, dominant with three pitches in a six-pitch era. Then Cleveland's offensive rookie crop (Bazzana, DeLauder, the broader call-up class) and why young hitters are debuting more "ready" than they've ever been.The back half is the keeper: the hitter data that actually predicts who plays at the top. Three numbers — contact rate, in-zone swing decisions, and exit velocity — and the rule that you need at least two of three at an elite level. The Kurtz-vs-Caglianone comparison shows how raw athleticism can carry you through college and the minors but flips on you at the top if you don't check the boxes.Topics covered:The Tre Phelps celebration and an insider defense of his actual character (30 minutes early, asking questions, no entitlement)Why Coach Wes Johnson + the Georgia community see Tre the way Trevor does after meeting himWest Virginia + Steve Sabins's first-ever trip to Omaha, and why Sabins is the No. 1 head coach Trevor would hireCristopher Sanchez's historic May — 15.2 scoreless, near Hershiser, dominance with three pitchesThe Sanchez sinker + change-up tandem and how a 6'6" lefty "makes the plate bigger"60% ground ball rate + elite swing-and-miss = a wild card threat with Wheeler behind himThe offensive rookie crop — Bazzana, DeLauder, JJ Wetherholt, Cole Emerson — and why they're coming up readier than everThe ABS zone + modern training resources as the reason young hitters debut as closer-to-finished productsThe hitter evaluation framework — contact rate, in-zone swing decisions, exit velocityThe 2024 draft test: every box-checker is in the big leagues right now (except Charlie Condon)The Kurtz-vs-Caglianone comparison — out-athleting the level vs checking the boxesWhy bad-ball-hitter power doesn't translate to the topWhy the floor of a roster spot is built on contact + zone control, not slugWhy this matters:The slash line is still the way most casual coverage talks about hitters. Inside the actual front offices, the conversation lives in barrel, contact, chase, and exit velocity — and the rule that you need at least two of three at elite to play at the top. This episode is the cleanest framework Trevor's broken down on the pod, with the 2024 draft as the working proof. 00:00 Intro · First Scorcher of Summer 02:00 The Tre Phelps Celebration · Insider Defense 13:30 Steve Sabins + West Virginia to Omaha 19:00 Cristopher Sanchez's Historic May 26:00 Three Pitches in a Six-Pitch Era 33:00 Sanchez + Wheeler · The Wild Card Threat 38:00 The Rookie Crop · Why Hitters Come Up Ready 44:00 The Hitter Evaluation Framework 50:00 Kurtz vs Caglianone · The Athlete vs The Box-Checker 58:00 The 2024 Draft Test · Box-Checkers Already in the Bigs 1:03:00 Why the Floor Wins Lineups

    College Baseball Regionals, the Roster Market, and Coaching Up at the Power 4

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 57:24


    A regionals Sunday BDH on the market inefficiency every Power Four program is missing — and the coaching gap that lets mid-majors keep upsetting them.Trevor and Dan dig into the roster-build chaos at the top of college baseball: there's no salary cap, no salary floor, no shared data, and no clean market for player value. Programs are paying gut feelings, getting outflanked by mid-majors who actually coach the little things, and losing regional games because their corner infielder doesn't know to back up on two strikes.Topics covered:Recruiting AT the regionals — how a Southern Conference Pitcher of the Year gets plucked to LSU in real timeWhy the mid-major mindset has to be "compliment, not punishment" when players leaveThe roster-market problem — no comparable contract data, agents who are uncles, the SEC vs ACC ~50% price gapThe "afraid to miss" trap — power-four programs chasing each other's rumors instead of building to their identityWhy LSU isn't in the 2026 tournament (calendar math) and why Georgia is (built for next season, not last)The D3-coach-as-Director-of-Defense thesis: "I can recruit. I have the personality. But can I coach?"The Florida 3B two-strike story — what bad fundamentals actually cost a postseason teamTim Corbin's bunt defense ("Whoever gets there first throws it to the right base") and 19 straight regionalsThe Dodgers wheel play and why MLB Network embarrassed itself treating it like a new inventionThe three phases of the postseason: Regionals (chaos) → Supers (chalk) → Omaha (top-end talent + depth)Day games vs night games — the rain-delay edge nobody seems to schedule forWhy this matters:College baseball is in its messiest competitive era — bigger gaps between programs, smaller rosters, more transfer movement, and a market with no rules. The programs that win the regional weekends aren't the most talented. They're the ones who built to their identity and coached the fundamentals nobody at the top is paying attention to. The takeaway is uncomfortable for big-budget programs: hire someone who can actually teach two-strike infield positioning.───────────────────────────────── 00:00 Intro · Dan & Trevor + Moving Day 02:54 Setting Up the Regionals · Why Upsets Happen 05:12 Recruiting AT the Regionals · The Pluck-Up Reality 13:28 The Roster Build Problem · No Market in College Baseball 17:51 Afraid to Miss · The Market Inefficiency 26:54 Lose Your Identity, Chase Your Tail 30:36 Hire a D3 Director of Fundamentals 37:23 Tim Corbin's Simplified Bunt Defense 41:34 The Dodgers Wheel Play Embarrassment 47:44 Three Phases of Postseason · Regional · Super · Omaha 53:39 The Day-Game Edge

    The Market Inefficiency Behind the Rays & Brewers Lineups

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 64:29


    A Memorial Day BDH on the biggest narrative in mid-season MLB — and what most pundits are missing about it.Trevor and Dan break down why the Rays and Brewers have become the lineup case study of 2026, why "they're just bunting their way to wins" is wildly off the mark, and how the real story is a three-step roster-construction philosophy rooted in 162-game survival, not October sizzle.Topics covered:Why the Rays and Brewers became "the lineups everyone wants to emulate" — and what's actually inside them (Junior Caminero, James Wood, CJ Abrams, Bryce Turang all have 40-HR power; the rest of the roster is the inefficiency)The "raise the floor" thesis: getting rid of every hitter with a 25%+ K rate so the 7-8-9 spots stop killing ralliesThe Wilmer Flores extinction event — why three-true-outcome guys without unicorn ceilings no longer have roster spotsRule-change tailwinds: pitch clock, pickoff limit, ABS, shift elimination — and why they all favor athletic, contact-and-run lineupsWhy Kyle Schwarber has quietly become a top-tier no-shift beneficiaryDoug Glanville's "you take your strike zone with you" — and what ABS does to walk rates league-wideStolen-base-adjusted OPS as the next stat people will start tracking (Marlins, Guardians, Brewers, Rays atop SB; Yankees + Nats slug + run)The Mike Rizzo doctrine: "build for 90 wins, hope the bounce of the ball helps with the World Series"The Dodgers as the exception (cruise-control roster) — and why everyone else is playing for the October coin flipWhy the Brewers got swept by LA and the Phillies couldn't manufacture one run vs. NLDS — the limits of slugging-only and scrappy-onlySpringer's Game 7 HR vs. Seattle and what it means for "you still need the bomb" in OctoberWhy this matters:Every market-inefficiency conversation in MLB right now lands at the Rays and Brewers. Most are missing the actual machine: it's not the bunts, it's the roster ROI lens. Small-market orgs treat lineup spots like index funds — Apple/Google-tier stocks are unicorns, the rest of the roster is built to never lose money. That's the conversation pundits aren't having. 00:00 Intro · Memorial Day 04:10 The Setup · Rays + Brewers Lineup Question 07:10 The Unicorns: Caminero, Wood, Turang 10:30 Raise the Floor · The Market Inefficiency 16:30 The Mike Rizzo Doctrine · Build for 162 22:58 Index Funds, Not Apple · Roster ROI 26:15 Rule Changes · ABS, Pitch Clock, No Shift 33:46 Stolen-Base-Adjusted OPS · The New Ground Game 41:51 October Math · You Still Need the Bomb 54:40 Closing · Appreciating the New MLB

    Why the Rays Kick Junior Caminero Out of the Cage at 100 MPH

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 40:55


    Trevor responds to the Rays hitting coach's viral radio clip about kicking Junior Caminero out of the cage when he hits a ball over 100 mph. The takes online split into two camps — "stupid old-school strategy" vs. "finally somebody trashing exit velocity." Caminero needs to think slow down. Schwarber needs to think oppo gap. Different problems. Same framework. Real vs. feel.Topics:Why kicking a hitter out at 100 mph is more about bat speed intent than exit velocityCaminero's 21st-percentile squared-up rate and what it tells you about usable bat speedThe wild-horse hitter problem — and why athleticism masks it until it doesn'tKyle Schwarber's real-vs-feel framework with Chris YoungWhy the league leader in pull-air% trains himself to hit the ball to centerThe Christian Yelich blueprint vs. the Caminero/Schwarber blueprintData points referenced:Caminero: 79.8 mph avg bat speed (99th %tile), 116.9 max EV, 21st %tile squared-up%, 4th %tile launch-angle sweet spot, .535 SLG, 12 HRSchwarber: 32.5% whiff (13th %tile), 31.7% K (7th %tile), 32.7% pull-air%, 15% BB (90th %tile), 20 HR (MLB lead), pace for 65

    Why One Elite Pitch Isn't Enough Anymore | The Multi-Fastball Era in MLB

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 52:08


    The single-elite-pitch era is closing out. Hitters caught up. Flatter swings, simpler load patterns, machine prep against any movement profile, and the discipline to ride out their front side mean a 70-grade four-seamer alone doesn't survive third time through the order anymore. The new edge is repertoire.Trevor and Dan break down why pitching development has shifted toward stacking multiple fastballs at the same velocity. Zach Wheeler throws three. Paul Skenes throws three. Cam Schlittler, Peyton Tolle, Davis Martin, Christopher Sanchez — all riding multi-fastball mixes that defeat the single-pitch sit. The conversation moves through tunneling, weak contact and stolen strikes as the new market inefficiencies, why Stuff+ models miss repertoire interaction, and Corbin Burns as the canonical case study where a "below-average" sinker existed to make a 120-grade cutter play.Chapters00:00 — Open / Mother's Day intro01:53 — The multi-fastball trend: Soriano, Schlittler, Joe Ryan, Peyton Tolle02:22 — The Zach Wheeler model: why hitters caught up, and the Trajekt machine03:58 — Mizorowski as the velocity outlier04:58 — Christopher Sanchez: when even an elite pitch starts getting hunted07:22 — Corbin Burns: cutter as the engine, sinker as the steal12:46 — The two missed market inefficiencies: weak contact and stolen strikes16:48 — Peyton Tolley: adding a C-grade sinker to make a 70-grade four-seamer play21:54 — Davis Martin: 60% fastball, three variations, nothing graded above average, sub-2 ERA23:19 — Joey Volcheck and Georgia: the trend reaching college baseball24:40 — IPitch / Trajekt: how hitter prep changed the math32:17 — Multi-fastball relievers: Vodnik, Mejia, Perkins41:22 — The Stuff+ blind spot: how do you grade repertoire interaction?51:00 — Closing thoughts

    Why Spending Money Doesn't Win Baseball Games | Baseball Development Hub Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 59:56


    Trevor Powers and Dan Galati on a Sunday-afternoon recap that turned into a full-length argument about how MLB organizations actually win — and why money keeps failing to fix the teams that don't.The conversation runs through the recent manager firings (Rob Thompson, Alex Cora), the Dodgers-vs-everyone organizational alignment thesis, the Yankees' draft pattern that produces big-league pitchers from rounds 6–20, and the 20-darts theory of drafting that the smart orgs all share.00:00 — Intro 01:50 — Ravik Spin Command callback 05:09 — Manager firings: Rob Thompson, Alex Cora, Carlos Mendoza 13:49 — How important is a manager really? 22:30 — The alignment thesis: Dodgers vs the field 35:30 — Yankees' draft + development pattern 44:00 — Schlittler, Will Warren, Ben Rice — the round 6–20 pipeline 47:00 — Bryce Rainer vs Konnor Griffin 48:49 — Orioles' identity-driven hitter cloning 50:18 — Phillies pitching success vs hitting struggles 52:00 — The 20-darts draft philosophy 55:00 — Random late-round all-stars (Roman Anthony, Cal Raleigh, Jose Ramirez) 59:38 — Outro#bsgb #bdhpodcast #mlb #playerdevelopment #managerfirings #dodgers #yankees #draft

    The Baseball that is REVOLUTIONIZING Pitcher Development

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 58:50


    Dan and Trevor sit down with the creator of Ravik Spin Command Baseballs.

    The app that could change baseball FOREVER

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 60:04


    Trevor sits down Eli Robles and Dante Girardi from SportFX to break down their motion capture software that is used to develop athletes, especially baseball players.

    Offense is DOWN Across Baseball... Here's Why

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 55:42


    "Offense is down — but why?

    The Mound that MAKES a Pitching Lab

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 71:38


    Trevor sits down with Will Barker, the director of research & development for Newtforce to discuss what makes the mound at the center of college AND MLB pitching labs across the country.

    Reflecting on Opening Day and the First Third of the College Baseball Season

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 39:01


    In this episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Trevor breaks down his thoughts on MLB's first weekend of action and how the first third of the college baseball season has gone.

    The Importance of Sports Psychology in Baseball

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 49:20


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Trevor discusses the importance of sports psychology in baseball, diving deep into the mental side of the game.

    One Month In: The College Baseball Landscape

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 65:14


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, the guys discuss the state of college baseball after the first month of the season.

    Leadership Lessons through Coaching w/ DeSales Head Coach Bryan Torresani

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 61:31


    On this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Trevor sits down with the new head coach of DeSales Baseball, Bryan Torresani to discuss his journey to becoming a college head coach.Check out the spiked heaters podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spiked-heaters-a-between-innings-podcast/id1876641341

    Building Winning Cultures in College Baseball

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 54:00


    Discover how the right people in college baseball programs lead to sustainable success. Learn why coaching and culture matter for athletes and teams.As college baseball season kicks off, fans and analysts alike focus on team rosters and player acquisitions. But what if the real key to success lies not in the players themselves, but in the people running the programs? In this post, we'll explore the importance of strong leadership, culture, and the continuity of coaching staff in building successful college baseball programs.College baseball has become increasingly competitive, with more teams utilizing the transfer portal to acquire top talent. However, the foundation of success in any program often lies with the coaches. Coaches who have a strong vision, a clear identity, and the ability to motivate players create an environment where athletes can thrive. This is especially true when continuity exists among the coaching staff, allowing strategies and philosophies to be consistently implemented.Successful programs are built on a strong culture that emphasizes accountability, hard work, and a commitment to improvement. For instance, LSU baseball, known for its storied history, consistently attracts top talent due to its reputation and the winning culture established by its coaching staff. Players want to be part of programs that have a clear identity and a history of success, leading to better recruitment and retention of talent.

    Why Arkansas Baseball Is the Gold Standard in Pitching Development | Pitching Coach Matt Hobbs

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 37:55


    What does elite pitching development actually look like at the highest level of college baseball?In this episode, we go inside Arkansas Baseball's pitching program with Matt Hobbs, widely regarded as one of the best pitching coaches in the country. This is a deep, educational breakdown of how Arkansas develops durable, powerful, and game-ready arms — not hype, not shortcuts, just a proven process.We cover:How Arkansas structures pitching development from bullpen to game dayTeaching velocity with intent while maintaining commandThe role of biomechanics, data, and feedback in modern developmentDesigning practices that transfer to competitionBuilding depth, consistency, and trust across an entire pitching staffThis video is built for coaches, players, and baseball development professionals who want a real look at what works at the highest level — and how those principles can be applied to their own programs.Whether you're developing high school arms or running a college staff, this is an inside look at the standard for pitching development in college baseball.

    Your mental skills should be as ELITE as you!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 58:18


    In this week's episode of Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor talk with Michael Huber about the importance of sharpening your mental skills on the diamond to be as elite as your physical attributes.

    The Hitting Blueprint Behind Clemson Baseball's Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2026 23:44


    In this in-depth interview, we sit down with Clemson Baseball to take a deep dive into their hitting development process and overall offensive philosophy. The conversation breaks down how hitters are developed over time, from early evaluation and swing decisions to daily practice structure and in-game adjustments.We discuss how Clemson approaches individual player development, the balance between mechanics and approach, and how hitters are coached to compete consistently at a high level. The interview also touches on the use of technology, feedback systems, and communication between coaches and players throughout the season.This video offers valuable insight for players looking to improve their offensive game, coaches interested in modern hitting development, and fans who want a behind-the-scenes look at how a top collegiate baseball program builds its hitters. Whether you're focused on development, preparation, or performance, this interview provides a clear look into the process behind Clemson Baseball's offensive success.

    College rosters are SHRINKING! Here's what it means!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 65:02


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor detail the potential consequences of NCAA's shift to 34-player rosters from 40.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundballs

    Inside Tulane Baseball | Head Coach Jay Uhlman on Culture & Player Development

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 43:24


    In this sit-down conversation, Tulane Head Baseball Coach Jay Uhlman dives into the foundations of culture and player development within his program. Coach Uhlman shares how Tulane approaches developing players on and off the field, building trust within the clubhouse, and creating an environment that allows athletes to grow, compete, and sustain success.This episode offers insight for coaches, players, and anyone interested in the process behind building a strong college baseball program.

    From Practice to Performance: How to Create Real Game-Like Reps

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 68:23


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor continue the conversation about simulating games at practice using a variety of methods. Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundballs

    High School Stars Might be OUT of the Draft Soon

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 62:20


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss the possibility that MLB may no longer allow high school players to be drafted into the league.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundballs

    How to Navigate Player Development in the NIL and Transfer Portal Era

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 59:15


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss why NIL and the transfer portal make player development difficult for college teams, and how to alleviate those issues.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundballs

    How Clemson Develops Elite Pitchers | Pitching Development w/ Jimmy Belanger

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 16:56


    How the Best College Baseball Programs Prepare for the Season

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 68:21


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss the preseason preparations that go on for the best teams in the country.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundballs

    Should MLB allow players to play in college after being drafted?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 57:56


    In this episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss whether or not Major League Baseball should adopt the NHL's player development model, which allows players to play for top-end college programs after the draft to help their development.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/

    College Baseball is Better for Your Development. Here's Why:

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 60:15


    In this episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss the merits of player development in College Baseball compared to Minor League Baseball, and why it's a better choice for young ballplayers to go to college.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundba

    How Great Coaching Drives Player Development at Mid-Major D1 Programs

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 46:03


    Mid-major Division I baseball programs don't always have the biggest budgets, flashiest facilities, or national spotlight — but many consistently develop high-level players. In this episode, we break down how great coaching becomes the competitive advantage.We dive into how mid-major D1 staffs focus on individualized player development, teaching fundamentals, and building repeatable routines that translate to game performance. Without relying on star recruits or unlimited resources, these programs emphasize skill growth, baseball IQ, physical development, and mental toughness.The conversation also covers how coaches identify under-recruited players, create clear development plans, and hold athletes accountable in an environment where development isn't optional — it's the priority. From practice structure to feedback systems, we explore what separates programs that consistently improve players from those that don't.Whether you're a player navigating the recruiting process, a parent trying to understand different D1 environments, or a coach looking for development ideas, this episode offers an inside look at why great coaching — not resources — is often the biggest driver of success at the mid-major level.

    Inside Arkansas Baseball Hitting Development | Nate Thompson on Building Elite College Hitters

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 32:01


    Ever wonder how top college programs turn talented players into first-round draft picks and pro-ready hitters? In this exclusive interview, Arkansas Hitting Coach Nate Thompson breaks down the secrets behind developing elite college hitters. From Golden Spikes–caliber bats to first-round-ready swings, we go inside Arkansas Baseball's hitting philosophy, training routines, and development system that consistently produces top-tier offensive talent.Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, you'll get actionable insights on what it takes to develop elite hitters and how a structured approach can turn potential into performance.What You'll Learn in This Video:Arkansas' approach to building pro-ready hittersKeys to developing first-round and award-winning talentHitting drills, mindset, and player development strategiesHow elite college programs create repeatable success

    College Coaches → Pro Baseball? Here's Why

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 48:15


    College baseball coaches are making the jump to professional organizations more than ever—and it's not a coincidence.In this episode, we break down why MLB and MiLB teams are increasingly hiring college coaches, what skills translate best to the pro game, and how the college environment is preparing coaches for modern player development. From communication and leadership to analytics, recruiting, and culture-building, we explore why pro organizations see college coaches as a competitive advantage.Whether you're a player, coach, or baseball fan, this episode explains the shifting hiring trends in pro baseball and what it means for the future of the game.

    Inside Clemson Baseball | Erik Bakich on Building a Powerhouse

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2025 35:47


    Go inside Clemson Baseball with head coach Erik Bakich as he breaks down what it takes to build a true powerhouse program. In this exclusive interview, Coach Bakich shares insights on player development, recruiting philosophy, leadership, culture, and the long-term vision for Clemson baseball.Whether you're a die-hard Tigers fan, a baseball coach, or someone who loves hearing from elite leaders, this conversation gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how Clemson is shaping its future on and off the field.Topics Covered:

    How Maryland Develops ELITE Power Hitters | The Science Behind Developing Hitters

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2025 12:39


    Unlock the full story behind how the University of Maryland develops elite power hitters in this in-depth conversation with Assistant Coach Tommy Gardiner. Coach Gardiner breaks down the Terps' hitting philosophy, the science behind player development, and the systems that consistently produce high-level offensive performers.In this interview, we explore:

    What you NEED to do over the offseason

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2025 45:21


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss what ballplayers should be doing over the winter to improve themselves for spring ball.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    What we learned from our trip to Arkansas

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 51:58


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub, Dan and Trevor break down their biggest takeaways from their visit to Arkansas. They also break down the new era of hitting development.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    Deep Dive into Maryland's Pitching Development | Jimmy Jackson Interview

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 23:28


    Dan Galati interviews Maryland pitching coach Jimmy Jackson, discussing philosophies on how to take your stuff to the next level.

    How Playing at Maryland Shaped Matt Swope as a Coach

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 31:37


    Dan Galati sits down with Maryland Head Coach Matt Swope. Swope talks about his experience as a player and as a coach, as well as breaking the 43-year tournament drought for the Terps.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    What the Dodgers World Series win means for MLB

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 59:19


    In this episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor break down the 2025 World Series, and what a Dodgers repeat means for the coming offseason, and for MLB moving forward.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    Penn State's Data-Driven Approach to Pitching Success | Pitching Coach Will Jauss

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 15:38


    What happens when cutting-edge analytics meet old-school competitiveness?Penn State pitching coach Will Jauss has the answer — and it's changing how college baseball develops pitchers. In this exclusive interview, Jauss takes us deep inside the Nittany Lions' pitching laboratory, where numbers meet nuance, and technology fuels transformation.From bullpen sessions wired with TrackMan, Rapsodo, and high-speed video, to in-game decision-making based on release consistency, spin efficiency, and pitch tunneling, Jauss reveals how Penn State blends science, structure, and feel into a unified system for success. But beyond the metrics, he emphasizes what can't be quantified — the mindset, discipline, and daily habits that make great pitchers great.Discover how Penn State's staff teaches its arms to command the moment, not just the strike zone; why command beats velocity every time; and how Jauss is preparing his pitchers to thrive against Big Ten lineups — and beyond.This isn't just a look at baseball's next frontier — it's a masterclass in how data, development, and determination come together to create pitchers built for the modern game.

    How will Tony Vitello make the jump to MLB? | The Baseball Development Hub Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 55:29


    In this episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor break down the major differences between coaching college baseball and professional baseball. Dan and Trevor dive deep into the San Francisco Giants hiring Tony Vitello, the first coach to ever make the jump directly from NCAA head coach to MLB manager. Dan and Trevor also take a look at what the Blue Jays do differently on offense.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    The Pitching Philosophy Behind LSU's National Championships | Director of Pitching, Jamie Tutko

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 21:08


    Richmond Head Coach Mik Aoki Explains the Intersection of Data and Development.

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 37:17


    Dan Galati speaks with Mik Aoki, the Head Coach of Richmond Baseball, as he details how he and his staff encourage players to embrace data in their development.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    Penn State Baseball: Inside Their Offensive Development Machine

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 28:04


    Step inside the offensive engine of Penn State Nittany Lions baseball. In this exclusive interview, hitting coach Nick Puccio and assistant coach Jake Palomaki break down how the program develops elite hitters from the ground up.We dive deep into their hitting philosophy, training methods, approach to player development, and the culture they're building to create a relentless offense. Whether you're a coach, player, or just love the game, this conversation gives a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Penn State's hitting system special.

    Why do Teams and Players Succeed and Fail in October?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 63:49


    In this week's episode of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss what makes postseason baseball so special, and break down the changes in approach for teams and players in October.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    NIL Changed Everything, And There's No Going Back

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 58:21


    The world of college sports has changed forever. With the opening of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era, young athletes are now navigating not just competition on the field — but contracts, endorsements, social media scrutiny, and massive public expectations. In this episode, we dive into the Pandora's Box that NIL has opened.How much pressure is too much for athletes who are still, at the end of the day, teenagers and young adults? Is the system setting them up for success — or burnout? We explore the emotional, mental, and financial weight NIL brings, and what it really means for the future of college sports.

    Building SAVAGES: Inside Charlotte Baseball's Weight Room

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 8:36


    Step inside the weight room where Charlotte Baseball builds absolute SAVAGES.

    Modern College Baseball Recruiting Mayhem: What Every Family Needs to Know | Sam Sharf RRP Baseball

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 54:51


    Trevor sits down with Sam Sharf to put baseball development under the microscope in this week's edition of the Baseball Development Hub Podcast.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    The Man Behind Penn State Baseball's New Identity | Mike Gambino Interview

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 51:21


    Dan Galati speaks with Mike Gambino, the Head Coach of Penn State Baseball, as he details his plan to follow the success of the school's football and lacrosse programs.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    Our Biggest Takeaways from our Trip to Penn State!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 52:30


    In this week's podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss their recent visit to Penn State University, home of the Nittany Lions. The trip, another installment of our "Unofficial Visit" series, gave Dan and Trevor insights into a Big 10 baseball program that is on the come up.Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    How Georgia Creates FIRST-CLASS Pitchers | Head Coach Wes Johnson Interview.

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 23:32


    Dan visits Head Coach Wes Johnson at the University of Georgia to break down how they use advanced analytics to develop pitchers that dominate the SEC.Join our Mailing list at https://forms.gle/WYnv5tY342Sfkt3N9Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundballExplore the podcast

    How much does bat speed ACTUALLY matter? | Hitting Philosophy Discussion

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 49:45


    In this week's podcast, Dan and Trevor discuss the importance of bat speed in modern hitting. Bat speed is one of the hallmarks of advanced baseball analytics, but is it as important as some make it seem?Join our Mailing list at https://backsidegbmedia.beehiiv.com/Follow on Twitter @BacksideGBFollow on Instagram @backsidegroundballsFollow on TikTok @backsidegroundball

    The TRUTH about College Baseball Recruiting | Charlotte Recruiting Coordinator Toby Bicknell

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 15:42


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