The Final Strike

Stephen Heckman
  • 0.0 (0)
  • BASEBALL
  • UPDATED DAILY

The final strike for your Orioles insights, updates and more

  1. 1 FEB · VIDEO

    Season 4 Kickoff: Orioles' Rotation, Trades & World Baseball Classic Buzz

    Stephen Heckman kicks off Season 4 of the Final Strike Podcast with a fast-paced preview of the Orioles heading into spring training and the World Baseball Classic. He breaks down the starting rotation and bullpen, evaluates recent signings and trade rumors (Alonso, Eflin, Valdez, Gallen, Giolito), and highlights roster depth, catching tandem, and health as the key to competing in the AL East. Plus: thoughts on the Dodgers’ spending, roster flexibility, and shout-outs to the Baltimore Battery and local sponsor Advanced Mobility Solution.

    24 min

  2. 19/11/2025 · VIDEO

    Orioles Shakeup: Craig Albernez Hired and Grayson Rodriguez Traded

    Stephen Heckman breaks down the Orioles’ major offseason moves: the hire of new manager Craig Albernez and the surprising trade of Grayson Rodriguez to the Angels for right-handed power bat Taylor Ward. The episode examines Rodriguez’s injury history, Ward’s versatility and upside, implications for the rotation and roster logjams, and what fans should expect as the Orioles approach the winter meetings and spring training.

    25 min

  3. 29/10/2025 · VIDEO

    Orioles Reset: New Manager, Young Stars, and a Tough 2025

    Stephen Heckman breaks down the Orioles' 2025 season: a disappointing 75–87 finish marked by injuries, a strained bullpen, and a -111 run differential. He highlights late-season call-ups who impressed—Samuel Basello, Dylan Beavers, and Jermiah Jackson—and discusses catching depth and defensive concerns. The episode covers the firing of Brandon Hyde and the surprise hiring of Craig Albernez as manager, why his catching and bullpen experience matters, and what to expect in the upcoming offseason as Baltimore reshapes its roster and strategy.

    22 min

  4. 12/09/2025 · VIDEO

    From Camden Yards to the UK: O's Across the Pond Joins The Final Strike

    Stephen Heckman of The Final Strike hosts Thomas from O's Across the Pond to discuss the Orioles, the UK fan community, and the growing international love for baseball. They review late-season momentum, breakout rookies, pitching depth, roster and contract decisions, and possible offseason moves including managerial and front-office considerations. The episode highlights scouting successes, cross-Atlantic fan engagement, and what to watch for Baltimore as it heads into the offseason and 2026.

    1h 8m

  5. 20/08/2025 · VIDEO

    Orioles Pipeline Watch: Top 30 Prospects Breakdown

    Stephen Heckman and Zach dive into the Orioles' updated Top 30 prospects list, discussing recent call-ups (Samuel Bassello, Dylan Beavers), standout pitchers like Esteban Mejia and Michael Forrett, and the organization’s talent pipeline under GM Mike Elias. They debate rankings, injuries (Braxton Bragg, Grayson Rodriguez), position questions (Ike Irish, Enrique Bradfield) and what the minors suggest for Baltimore’s near-term roster and offseason choices.

    58 min

  6. 01/08/2025 · VIDEO

    Orioles' Trade Deadline: A Bold Leap Towards 2026

    In this exciting episode, host Steven Heckman is joined by special guest Jared Watson, co-founder and chief editor of the Baltimore Battery, to break down the Baltimore Orioles' whirlwind of trades and moves on deadline day. The team has strategically let go of expiring contracts, acquiring a wealth of prospects to bolster their future roster, particularly focusing on pitching. Together, they dissect the details of major trades involving fan favorites like Cedric Mullins and discuss the prospects acquired, such as Wilfrid De La Cruz and Victor Figueroa. The episode delves into the strategic mindset of GM Mike Elias, aiming for competitiveness by 2026, and examines key trades with the Padres, Mets, and more. Listen in as Heckman and Watson evaluate the Orioles' trade strategy, share their thoughts on the impact of these moves, and discuss the potential of the farm system's new arrivals. They also touch on the broader MLB trade landscape, highlighting potential season winners and losers as teams reposition for upcoming challenges.

    56 min

  7. 25/07/2025 · VIDEO

    Breaking Down the Orioles-Mets Trade: A Future Star in the Making?

    In this special edition of the Final Strike Podcast, Stephen Heckman dives into the latest trade news involving the Baltimore Orioles, as Gregory Soto moves to the New York Mets. The Orioles acquire top prospect Wellington Aracena, a promising 20-year-old talent known for his impressive fastball and potential role as a starter or reliever. Stephen discusses the strategic implications of this trade for the Orioles, highlighting Aracena's ability to grow into a valuable player for the team in the years to come. Additionally, the episode covers the acquisition of Cameron Foster, a reliever with strong minor league performances, who could bolster the Orioles' bullpen. Stephen analyzes how these moves fit into the Orioles' long-term planning, shedding light on their vision for future success while addressing current roster changes.

    13 min

  8. 23/07/2025 · VIDEO

    Inside the Orioles Draft Strategy with Zachary Bucklew

    Join host Stephen Heckman and special guest Zachary Bucklew from the Baltimore Orioles in this engaging episode of The Final Strike Podcast. Stephen kicks off with quick injury updates, discussing the rehab assignments of players like Keegan Akin and Ryan Mountcastle. The conversation soon shifts to the Orioles' rocky start in the second half of the season and a detailed analysis of their recent draft strategy. Zachary shares his thoughts on the unexpected draft picks, focusing on players like Ike Irish and Caden Bowdine. The discussion takes a critical turn as they delve into the injury epidemic plaguing the team, questioning whether the training staff and coaching practices are contributing to the unusually high number of lat strains and shoulder injuries among players. Together, they explore the consequences these injuries have had on the Orioles' season and speculate on the factors influencing the team's decision-making processes, from player drafts to handling injured athletes. Don't miss this insightful episode that provides an in-depth look at the Orioles' strategies, challenges, and the uncertain road ahead for Birdland.

    35 min
See All (78)

About

The final strike for your Orioles insights, updates and more

Information

  • Creator
    Stephen Heckman
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    78
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Stephen Heckman
  • Show Website
    The Final Strike