Dugout Dish Baseball Recruiting Podcast powered by EMD Baseball

In this episode, we break down why evaluating the high school hitter has become one of the biggest challenges in today’s college baseball recruiting landscape. We discuss the key factors that make it difficult for college coaches to get a true evaluation of high school position players, including the level of competition hitters face, recruiting calendar timing, limited in-game exposure, and the lack of reliable data on at-bats and opposing pitchers.   We also dive into how the transfer portal has shifted the timing of high school recruiting and why the data now available to college coaches makes evaluating college hitters far easier than evaluating high school hitters. From advanced analytics to larger sample sizes, we explain why college hitters often present less risk in the recruiting process.   This episode covers the many variables impacting high school hitter evaluations in 2026 and is designed to educate players and parents on why the recruiting process can feel challenging—and what that means for hitters trying to get recruited. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by: Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - It's Very Difficult to Evaluate High School Hitters(00:12:36) - Diamond College Showcase(00:22:21) - How To Evaluate High School Hitters

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Murphy, Head Baseball Coach at Merrimack College and a longtime mentor of Andy, to break down how college baseball recruiting really works. Coach Murphy shares how his staff evaluates talent, which positions are the most difficult to assess in the recruiting process, and what he truly values when identifying potential college baseball players.   We dive into the importance of networking in college baseball recruiting and discuss how Merrimack builds its roster each year in today’s evolving recruiting landscape. Coach Murphy explains how his program balances high school recruiting, the transfer portal, and JUCO baseball to meet roster needs and stay competitive.   We also cover the role of on-campus camps in the recruiting process, how Merrimack utilizes camps to evaluate prospects, and practical recruiting advice for families navigating college baseball recruiting right now. This episode is a must-listen for high school players, parents, and coaches looking to better understand what college coaches are looking for and how to stand out in the recruiting process. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by: Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:13) - Former Merrimack College Coach Brian Murphy on The Dugout Dish(00:06:07) - Merrimack Baseball Coach on the Recruiting Process(00:14:59) - Leading with a Harder Heart(00:21:09) - High School Baseball: The Expectations(00:29:55) - Transfer Portal and the Recruiting Process(00:36:48) - Offense: Let's See How Good We Can(00:42:08) - How To Evaluate a Prospect?(00:48:40) - ESPN College Baseball Recruiting Tips

In this episode, we break down winter baseball showcase timing and what high school players and parents need to know before showcasing early in the year. We dive into the Division I recruiting calendar and explain why, during the winter months, only Division II and Division III college coaches are permitted to attend showcases. We also discuss why attending a winter showcase may not be the right move if you haven’t been throwing, hitting, or training consistently leading up to the event. Showcasing too early without proper preparation can hurt your recruiting process more than it helps. Finally, we get into the key differences between pitchers (arms) and position players when deciding whether a winter showcase makes sense. From physical readiness to recruiting timelines, we outline how each position should approach winter showcases strategically Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by: Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - In the Clubhouse With The MD Baseball(00:01:35) - Timelime of the January/February Showcase(00:12:15) - Seamstress Timing: Baseball Recruitment

In this episode, we sit down with Greg Mamula, Head Baseball Coach at the University of Delaware, for an in-depth conversation on college baseball recruiting and player evaluation. Coach Mamula breaks down how Division I programs evaluate high school baseball players, what Delaware looks for in recruits, and how recruiting needs change year-to-year with the transfer portal.   We also dive into the role of junior college baseball in the recruiting process, the high level of competition in Division II and Division III baseball, and take a detailed look at how college coaches evaluate high school hitters. Coach Mamula discusses the Blue Hens’ conference transition from the CAA to Conference USA, what the academic track looks like for college baseball players, and offers practical advice on how families can find success navigating the college baseball recruiting process. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by: Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - Coach Manuel Mamula(00:07:11) - Delaware Coach Greg Knows How To Recruit Players(00:17:29) - Reaching the Right Fit for a Recruit(00:25:52) - Transfer Portal(00:35:31) - Do Division 2 Baseball Programs Matter?(00:43:45) - Batting Coach: Swing and Miss(00:47:45) - Delaware coach on the transition from CAA to Conference USA(00:56:50) - Does Playing Baseball Affect Your Admissions Process?(01:06:41) - Keith and Andy on the Baseball Recruiting Process(01:14:36) - Coach Rick Pitino on Recruiting

In this episode, we break down a recent study highlighted in Ohio State News by Jeff Grabmeier about parental expectations for their children’s athletic futures — research conducted by Chris Knoester and Christopher McLeod and published in the Journal of Sport and Social Issues. Ohio State News   The study found that 34% of parents believed it was somewhat or very likely their child would become a small-college athlete, 27% thought their child would earn a college athletic scholarship, and 17% believed their child would become a professional or Olympic athlete. Ohio State News   We take time to discuss these numbers and share our thoughts on how high they may be relative to the real odds. Then we explore possible reasons why parents may overestimate these outcomes, including cultural expectations, athletic identity, and the impact of youth sports pressure. Ohio State News   Finally, we talk about what it truly takes to make it to college in any sport, how difficult it is to become a professional athlete, and why there needs to be broader education for families about the realities of competing at the next level and planning for life beyond sports. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - Report: 27% of Baseball Parents Think Their Child Will Play Division(00:12:12) - Do College Athletians Expect Their Kids to Play Division 1 Sports?

In this episode, we share our thoughts on several key topics shaping college baseball recruiting as we move into 2026. We start by discussing the weight room and why strength training is essential for high school baseball players, how it impacts long-term development, and why it matters when transitioning to the college level.   We break down the transfer portal and explain why it is not ruining college baseball recruiting, while also addressing common misconceptions families have about how it affects opportunities for high school athletes. We also dive into the importance of being a multi-sport athlete, and why we strongly believe early specialization can be limiting, especially before the later years of high school.   The conversation continues with why college baseball is more competitive than ever, what has changed over the years, and what today’s players must do to keep up. We also discuss how parents can better navigate the recruiting process by educating themselves, understanding the realities of recruiting, and recognizing that success rarely comes from trying to figure it out alone.   Finally, we tackle the intersection of academics and athletics, explaining why being talented at baseball does not automatically open every door in college—especially at high-academic baseball programs—and why strong grades alone do not guarantee a roster spot at those schools. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - Dugout Dish: College Baseball In 2026(00:01:57) - Bradley on Sports Specialization(00:11:55) - LeBron on His Kids Playing Sports(00:18:13) - Transfer Portal(00:26:39) - Transfer Portal Impact on Baseball Recruiting(00:29:24) - Offseason Fitness and Baseball(00:37:59) - Roster Limits in College Baseball(00:47:07) - Don't Let the Baseball World Tell You You're a Division 1(00:53:28) - Just Because You're Good at Baseball Doesn't Mean You Can Get(01:02:18) - How To Recruit A Baseball Player!

In this episode, we sit down with Radford University Head Baseball Coach Alex Guerra to discuss his coaching journey and path to becoming head coach at his alma mater in June 2022. Coach Guerra shares what he values most in his college baseball program, the standards he sets for his players, and how he builds a competitive NCAA baseball culture.   We break down the key differences between college baseball, high school baseball, and professional baseball, including what college baseball practices really look like and the level of detail and preparation required to compete at the NCAA level. Coach Guerra also dives into how the college baseball recruiting landscape has changed, offering practical recruiting advice for high school baseball players and families on navigating the baseball recruiting process, communicating with college coaches, and earning opportunities to play college baseball. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - Meet Radford Baseball Coach Alex Guerra(00:07:29) - Ex-Volunteer Keith Jones on Coaching(00:12:22) - Does Data Drive Baseball Coaching?(00:20:33) - The need for focus in college baseball(00:26:36) - Infielders on Defensive Excellence(00:31:31) - Don't assume a freshman is ready for college baseball(00:39:42) - Close Calls in College Baseball(00:47:21) - Keatts on coaching in the NFL(00:53:38) - Bradford Coach on Recruiting the Right Player(01:01:24) - Radford Coach on Recruiting(01:08:30) - High School Coach on Recruiting(01:17:05) - Radiators on a 40 Man Roster(01:25:42) - Bradley on the Transfer Portal(01:32:21) - Reaching Out Through Recruiting(01:36:34) - Bradley on the Baseball Recruiting Process(01:44:14) - Jonah Glass on College Recruiting

In this episode, we dive into the power of persistence in the college baseball recruiting process and in life. Inspired by a recent NFL moment where a special teams player made a game-changing play through relentless effort, we connect the dots between staying committed and creating your own opportunities on the field.   We break down why consistency matters — from workouts and skill development to emailing coaches, playing with high energy, and keeping your grades aligned with your goals. For athletes chasing the next level, this episode serves as a reminder that persistence can separate you from the pack and open doors to future success. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Cali Gloves(00:01:13) - In the Clubhouse: Elijah Clark's Persistence(00:10:21) - Elijah Clark

In this episode, we sit down with FDU-Florham Head Baseball Coach Garrett deMarrais to discuss his coaching journey, what he looks for during the college baseball recruiting process, and how he builds a culture of competition within his program.   We also share insights on the value of multi-sport athletes, what it truly takes to play college baseball, and what student-athletes can expect from the college baseball experience. We wrap up by talking about his experience winning a national championship at Misericordia as an assistant coach. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - Meet Garrett Demaray: The youngest head coach in NCAA baseball(00:08:19) - FDU Coach Discusses Recruiting Class(00:16:24) - What Do Baseball Programs Look For In A Recruitment?(00:25:17) - The Multi-Sport Recruit(00:34:09) - Do Multi-Sport Athletes Hurt Their Development?(00:43:13) - "You earn your chance to play in the fall"(00:48:29) - What It's Like to Be a College Baseball Player(00:56:41) - William Patterson on the College Recruiting Process(01:05:14) - Emmedd Baseball Recruiting Podcast

In this episode, we break down the true value of consistency in the college baseball recruiting process. From strength and conditioning to throwing programs, hitting routines, and defensive work, we explain how daily habits directly impact your ability to be recruitable when it matters most — during the spring and summer evaluation periods.   We also discuss how developing consistent routines not only helps you stand out to college coaches, but also builds the work ethic, discipline, and competitiveness needed to succeed at the next level. If you’re serious about playing college baseball, this episode provides the blueprint for doing the work that leads to real opportunities. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - In the Clubhouse With EMD Baseball(00:10:52) - Work To Get To College

In this episode, we sit down with Alyssa Gates, Associate AD and Director of Student-Athlete Enhancement at Marist University. Alyssa worked at Marist during Andy and Keith’s playing careers and brings valuable insight into how colleges support student-athletes both academically and personally.   We dive into the academic side of the recruiting process — what families should look for when evaluating schools, how student-athletes can quickly develop time-management skills, and the common pitfalls to avoid during your first year. Alyssa also shares what types of workshops, career preparation resources, and support services colleges provide, plus tips for navigating classroom expectations and academic challenges throughout your college journey. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - Marist University Student Athlete Well-being(00:10:01) - How to Get Out of College With a Plan(00:18:33) - Marist Coach on Student Athletes(00:28:04) - Faculty members on Student Athletes(00:35:01) - Marist Baseball Team Member on the Field(00:39:13) - Marist Athletics: Virtual Classes, Remote Learning(00:44:15) - How To Deal With Parking Tickets(00:44:56) - Marist College Recruiting Family Questions(00:52:29) - Do Student Athletes Need Academic Assistance?(00:58:42) - Marist Student Athlete Development(01:04:37) - Andy and Alyssa on Their Phones(01:06:57) - Athletes: Take the Morning Class

In this episode, we break down what high school baseball players in the 2027 class should be doing right now to get noticed by college coaches. This is the time of year when programs are finalizing their 2026 commitments and shifting their focus toward identifying priority 2027 recruits for the spring and summer evaluation periods.   We dive deep into Division II and Division III recruiting, including how coaches at those levels build their follow lists, what they look for at winter camps, and which players they plan to see during next year’s high school and travel seasons.   We also share actionable strategies on how to reach out to coaches, what questions to ask, and the steps players can take to move up recruiting boards. If you’re a 2027 recruit—or a parent helping guide the process—this episode is packed with insights you can use right away to gain real recruiting momentum. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:12) - It's Division 2 and 3 Baseball Recruitment(00:10:02) - How to Get In Front of Division 1 Coaches

In this episode, we sit down with former college baseball coach Joe Raccuia — now a National Scout and Minor League Hitting Coordinator for the Kansas City Royals. We dive into his playing career, his path into coaching, and what his current role looks like inside a Major League Baseball organization.   Coach Raccuia shares valuable insight into the college baseball recruiting process, offering perspective from both sides: as a longtime coach and as a parent navigating the journey with his own family. He also delivers powerful stories about development, setbacks, and the importance of persistence for players chasing their dreams.   Whether you’re a player, parent, or a fan of the game, this episode provides real-world advice and inspiration for anyone involved in baseball. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Cali Gloves(00:01:12) - Former Mariston Baseball Coach Keith Glasser on The Dugout Dish(00:09:20) - Choosing the Right College for You(00:16:44) - How to Sell Camps to Your Parents(00:23:18) - Offering a Freshman an Offer(00:29:47) - Be Dedicated to Your Goal(00:37:29) - Scouts on Prospects: Makeup Can't Deter You(00:43:05) - Reasons for College Baseball Recruiting(00:50:36) - How to Get Out of Struggles in Baseball(00:57:44) - Bat Coach: Can We Fix Our Kids'?(01:04:26) - Tyler Schwarber on His Hit Skills(01:12:26) - Should You Bring a Prospect Up to the MLB?(01:20:54) - Timothy Howey on the Defensive Side of Prospects(01:29:52) - Andy Wells on High School Baseball(01:34:52) - All About It

In this episode, we dive into the first-ever NCAA Division I roster finalization deadline taking place today, December 1. This new rule, driven by the House Settlement decision, requires programs to lock in their rosters for the 2026 season by December 1, 2025 — marking a major shift in college baseball.   We break down what this rule means, why it matters, and what athletes should do if they don’t make the roster. We also discuss the potential long-term impact on player movement, recruiting timelines, and the overall landscape of college baseball in 2026 and beyond. If you’re a recruit, parent, or college baseball fan, this is a must-listen episode for navigating the future of the game. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com

In this episode, we sit down with Marist University Head Baseball Coach Lance Ratchford to discuss all things Marist Baseball and the college recruiting process. Coach Ratchford shares insights into how the program identifies and recruits top student-athletes. We dive into the role of on-campus camps, what a typical recruiting timeline looks like for prospective players, and how the new NCAA recruiting rules are shaping the future of college baseball. Whether you’re a high school athlete, parent, or coach, this episode offers valuable advice on what it takes to play college baseball and stand out in the recruiting process. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:13) - Marist Baseball Alumni on The Dugout Dish Podcast(00:03:00) - Marist Baseball Player on His Journey to Marist(00:07:39) - Marist Coach on The Recruitment Process(00:14:34) - Offering the College Where the Fit Is(00:21:51) - High School Recruitment Camps(00:27:14) - Lance Berkowitz on Recruiting Process(00:33:32) - Demetrius Monaco on His College Decision(00:39:49) - Reasons Why 16 Year Old Boys Should Get An Offer(00:46:45) - Transfer Portal: What It's Doing for Coaches(00:52:11) - Getting to the Major Leagues Is Hard(00:57:56) - High School Prospects: The Cape Cod League(01:06:02) - Pitchers on the College Game(01:13:37) - Pepsi on Baseball Advice For Parents(01:21:25) - Andy Touched: We Don't Recruit An Offerment Boy(01:27:27) - How To Recruit Your Child

Confused about how JUCO eligibility works? In this episode, we break down the current NCAA rules for junior college baseball players transferring to four-year schools. We cover the 2025–26 eligibility waiver, the impact of recent court rulings, and what players need to know about how their JUCO years count toward total college eligibility. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith Gives Kids the Right Gloves for Catch(00:01:12) - In the Clubhouse: Junior College Athletics eligibility(00:06:24) - Should You Play Junior College Baseball?

In this episode, we sit down with Erik Kratz — former Major League Baseball catcher, author, coach, and current host on Foul Territory TV. Erik shares his inspiring journey from not starting in high school baseball to playing at Division III Eastern Mennonite University and eventually making it to the MLB for an eleven year career. We talk about player development, the art of catching in 2025, and his approach to coaching high school baseball. Erik also shares how he fosters competition with his sons as they pursue college baseball opportunities. Plus, we dive into recent MLB front-office hires and the current state of ownership spending across professional baseball. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith Gives Kids the Right Glove(00:01:12) - Quadrunk Box(00:03:42) - Adam Jones on His Path to the Big Leaguer(00:11:15) - Erickson on Playing as a Freshman(00:17:00) - Bradley Manning on grinding out the minor leagues(00:24:16) - The Catcher-Pitcher Relationship(00:30:22) - Joe Maddon on His Relationship With the Umpires(00:34:36) - Tyler Flowers on One-Knee Catcher(00:41:12) - Adam Jones on Catcher Training(00:47:21) - Phillips on Having Multiple Sports on the Field(00:53:42) - Andy Pederson on His Competitiveness(00:59:29) - Adam Jones on Drew Waters' Struggles(01:08:11) - Teammates on the Try Hard(01:14:34) - Tony Vitello's San Francisco Giants Contract(01:20:55) - Tony Watson on San Francisco's new manager(01:29:12) - Tom Savage on the Dodgers Not RUINING Baseball(01:36:15) - Paul Skeens Needs to Be traded(01:42:42) - O' Neill Cruz on the Milwaukee Brewers(01:44:42) - Eric Kratz on The Tao of the Backup Catcher

In this episode, we discuss the desire and drive to play college baseball — and what it truly takes to get recruited. With just 8% of high school players earning a college roster spot, we break down the recruiting process, the level of commitment required, and how to stand out to college baseball coaches. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith Gives Kids the Right Glove(00:01:12) - How Bad Do You Want to Play College Baseball?(00:12:22) - College Baseball: The Pros and Cons(00:20:53) - What Separates Good Players From Bad?

*Re-release of ep. 39* In this episode we sit down with University of Arkansas Pitching Coach Matt Hobbs and talk player identification, player development, competition, data, and much more.  Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:00) - Coach Matt Hobbs on The Dugout Dish Podcast(00:07:24) - Arkansas Coach Tim Gotten on Leaving Wake Forest(00:14:52) - Be humbled as a coach(00:19:40) - How Do You Find A Recruitment Candidate?(00:27:13) - Arkansas Coach on Recruiting(00:35:33) - Arkansas freshman Brandon Moore on playing as a freshman(00:43:01) - "Edge of the Lineup"(00:50:11) - Arkansas baseball players: Well-rounded players(00:57:06) - What Do You Need To Do To Get Better?(01:04:12) - Starting Prospects: How Do You Lay the Ground for Them?(01:08:52) - How to grow a pitcher's repertoire(01:17:28) - Pitching Coaches: Data-driven Development(01:24:35) - Reasons Why You Shouldn't Bring a Recruit to Campus(01:30:27) - Reasons Missouri coaches recruit Californians(01:36:23) - NCAA Recruiting Rule 2(01:44:26) - Reveal: Recruiting at the College Level(01:50:21) - Pitching Prospects: Do Your Homework on Colleges

In honor of Veteran’s Day, this episode features Air Force Head Baseball Coach Mike Kazlausky. Coach Kazlausky shares insights from his time in the Air Force, what he values in student-athletes, and the mission that drives Air Force Baseball. We also dive into the transfer portal, the challenges and rewards of coaching college baseball, and how he defines success both on and off the field. Follow us on Instagram and Youtube: @emdbaseball Presented by Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith Gives Kids the Right Glove(00:01:12) - Air Force Baseball Coach Kaz Kaz on Dugout Dish(00:05:43) - Air Force Coach Phil Knight on Military Service(00:12:15) - Paul Skeens on Being an Icon(00:12:42) - Air Force Baseball Recruiting(00:19:42) - Service Academy Baseball Coach on Athletes Leaving the School(00:26:20) - Baseball Coaches: The Definition of Success(00:31:49) - Nick Durand on Serving in the Military(00:37:32) - Leading Future Fighters: The Military Academy(00:42:39) - Andy Had This Same Conversation With His Wife(00:47:51) - Baseball Coach on Leading(00:50:12) - The 4-Year Window(00:57:37) - Transfer portal discussion(01:03:15) - College Baseball Recruiting