Dugout Dish Baseball Recruiting Podcast powered by EMD Baseball

Andy Kiriakedes & Keith Glasser

With a combined 25 years of collegiate coaching experience at the Division I, II, and III levels we will bring you the latest insights, analysis, and interviews about the world of college baseball recruiting. Each week, we will break down topics relevant to the college baseball recruiting landscape. In addition to breaking down the latest recruiting news, we'll also be speaking with coaches and players around the country. Our guests will provide valuable insights into what it takes to make it as a college baseball player and share their experiences and knowledge of the recruiting process.Whether you're a high school player, parent, or coach looking to learn more about the recruiting process or gather insights from college coaches this podcast has something for everyone. So join us each week as we dive deep into the world of college baseball recruiting.

  1. Dugout Dish: In the Clubhouse with EMD | Unlimited Transfers in College Sports: Why Coaches Want New NCAA Rules

    3D AGO

    Dugout Dish: In the Clubhouse with EMD | Unlimited Transfers in College Sports: Why Coaches Want New NCAA Rules

    In this episode, we break down the growing debate around transfer rules in college athletics and why many coaches and athletic departments believe the current NCAA transfer portal system needs reform.   Over the past several months, frustration has been building across college sports as coaches and administrators deal with the reality of athletes transferring multiple times with immediate eligibility. Combined with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, the system has increasingly started to resemble free agency at the highest levels of college athletics.   We discuss how the current transfer portal landscape has drifted from the original intent of transfer waivers and athlete mobility. Our proposed solution is a one-time transfer rule, where student-athletes can transfer once and play immediately, but would need to sit out a year of competition if they choose to transfer a second or third time.   In the episode we also discuss:   Why coaches across college sports are raising concerns about the current system   How unlimited transfers impact roster stability and program development   The role NIL money is playing in player movement   Potential rule changes the NCAA could implement to restore balance   How college sports might create a more sustainable transfer model moving forward   If you're interested in the future of the college transfer portal, NIL in college sports, and the evolving landscape of NCAA athlete movement, this episode offers a thoughtful conversation on where things stand and what changes may be coming. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com  Chapters (00:00:02) - One-Year Transfer Rule(00:10:58) - College Athletes Push for Salary Increase(00:19:28) - Give Student Athletes More Flexibility

    24 min
  2. Episode 157: Infield Play with Former MLB Player Kevin Smith

    MAR 5

    Episode 157: Infield Play with Former MLB Player Kevin Smith

    In this episode, we sit down with former MLB infielder Kevin Smith for an in-depth conversation on elite infield defense, footwork, positioning, and baseball development. Since retiring from professional baseball, Kevin has launched Kali Gloves and built a strong presence on social media, where he teaches modern infield play and shares insights to help the next generation of players improve their defensive game.   This episode dives deep into the value of defense in baseball and why infield play can be the key to getting — and staying — on the field. Kevin breaks down actionable infield drills and defensive training strategies that players at all levels can apply immediately.   We cover:   The importance of quality catch play and how proper throwing routines translate directly to game performance   How to train “game throws” during warmups to improve arm strength, accuracy, and body control   Pre-pitch positioning and first-step quickness to increase range   How to move efficiently off the baseball to field more balls cleanly   Why the traditional advice to “get in front of the ball” can be misleading — and how reading hops from the side can lead to better reactions and truer reads   Whether you're a youth infielder, high school baseball player, college athlete, or coach, this episode is packed with practical defensive tips, infield mechanics, and baseball IQ insights that will help elevate your glove work and overall game. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com  Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith(00:04:35) - Do Defensive Skills Matter in the College Baseball Process?(00:11:08) - Baseball Recruitment: Can You Tell A Kid From His(00:18:07) - All the Defensive Focus(00:19:33) - Do Defensive Players Need Pre-Pitch?(00:27:15) - Diamond College Showcase(00:33:47) - Throwing Routine for Minors(00:40:57) - Defense Lessons Learned Through Long Toss(00:47:51) - Throw Harder For Catchers(00:55:20) - Catchers on Their Aim Points(01:02:54) - Defense Lessons for Kids(01:08:02) - Get in Front of the Ball(01:15:28) - Don't Get Behind The Ball(01:20:28) - Outfielders on Defensive Runs(01:25:53) - Kevro on His Catches(01:29:18) - How To Catch A Baseball Ball!

    1h 31m
  3. Episode 156: Interview with Cubs AA Offensive Player Development Coach Joe Curci

    FEB 26

    Episode 156: Interview with Cubs AA Offensive Player Development Coach Joe Curci

    In this episode, we sit down with Knoxville Smokies player development coach Joe Curci to break down modern hitting development in Minor League Baseball. A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a degree in data science, Curci blends traditional baseball knowledge with cutting-edge technology to develop hitters in the Chicago Cubs minor league system.   We dive deep into hitting mechanics, approach, timing, swing decisions, pitch recognition, and in-game adjustments. Coach Curci explains how today’s minor league players use advanced baseball technology like TrackMan and HitTrax to analyze swing data, pitch metrics, and performance trends. From understanding attack angle and bat speed to building a consistent pre-pitch process, this episode covers how data-driven player development is shaping the future of hitting.   Whether you’re a baseball player, hitting coach, recruiter, or fan interested in baseball analytics, this conversation delivers actionable insights on improving swing decisions, being on time, making adjustments, and leveraging technology to maximize offensive performance. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com  Chapters (00:00:02) - Keith Glasser on The Dugout Dish Podcast(00:07:39) - Cubs assistant coach gets the chance to lead(00:12:59) - Batting Lessons Learned From High School, College and Pro(00:22:14) - Joe Glass on Brandon Bourne's Maturation(00:31:37) - Pitchers and Catchers: On-field metrics(00:36:28) - How Much of a Learning Curve is There for Baseball Prospects?(00:46:35) - Joey Munoz on His Approach(00:51:04) - Joe McDonald on Dominating His Own Talent(00:54:43) - How to Salvage the Minor League Season(01:03:45) - Joe DiMaggio on Swing Adjustments(01:12:53) - Understanding Your Swing(01:19:27) - Joe DiMaggio on the Recruiting Process

    1h 25m
  4. Dugout Dish: In the Clubhouse with EMD | 2026 Commit - Game plan for this year

    FEB 23 · BONUS

    Dugout Dish: In the Clubhouse with EMD | 2026 Commit - Game plan for this year

    In this episode, we break down exactly what 2026 graduates committed to play college baseball should be doing before arriving on campus this fall. If you're a future freshman preparing for Division I, II, III, or JUCO baseball, this episode outlines a plan for the summer.   We cover a detailed roadmap for pitchers, including innings management, pitch counts, summer ball decisions, strength and conditioning priorities, arm care routines, and how to communicate effectively with your college pitching coach.   For position players, we discuss how to structure summer competition, maximize quality at-bats, improve defensive consistency, build strength in the weight room, and maintain overall health leading into fall baseball.   We also emphasize the importance of consistent communication with your future college coaching staff, setting performance expectations, and preparing physically and mentally so you can show up to campus ready to compete from day one.   If you're a 2026 commit looking to make an immediate impact in fall baseball, this episode gives you a complete summer preparation blueprint. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com  Chapters (00:00:02) - In the Clubhouse: College Gives Way to Baseball(00:11:13) - Summer Baseball Training(00:21:13) - How To Recruit Your Child

    22 min
  5. Episode 155: Interview with Monroe Community College Head Coach Dave Brust

    FEB 19

    Episode 155: Interview with Monroe Community College Head Coach Dave Brust

    In this episode, we sit down with Monroe Community College Head Baseball Coach Dave Brust to discuss his coaching journey and the principles that guide his approach to teaching and player development. Coach Brust breaks down what he believes in as a coach, how he connects with his players, and why college coaching is far more layered than just teaching the fundamentals of the game.   We dive into the importance of JUCO baseball within the college baseball landscape, what it takes to compete at a high level in junior college baseball, and how the JUCO route prepares players to successfully transition to four-year college programs.   Coach Brust also shares insight on academics at the junior college level, explaining how JUCO programs can open doors for student-athletes by helping them earn strong GPAs and create more opportunities at the next level. We discuss the current state of college baseball, including transfer portal rules and how junior college players maintain year-round eligibility to be recruited or drafted.   To wrap up, Coach Brust offers practical recruiting advice for families, highlighting what players and parents should consider during the recruiting process to find the right academic, athletic, and personal fit. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com  Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith on Junior College Baseball(00:06:41) - Coach Andy Rossi on Becoming a Coach(00:11:40) - Bob Ley on Coaching in the NBA(00:17:51) - Diamond College Showcase: Figure It Out(00:26:42) - Are You Ready to Play College Baseball?(00:33:19) - How to Build a College Hit Team(00:40:25) - Baseball Coach on College Baseball(00:46:28) - Is Junior College a good option for guys?(00:52:47) - A Taste of JUCO Baseball(01:00:59) - Monroe Community College Baseball(01:10:09) - Baseball scholarships available to juniors and seniors(01:18:05) - JUCO Baseball: An Easier Evaluation(01:28:13) - Pitchers on Summer Baseball(01:37:31) - George Bell on Catchers Advice(01:44:43) - JUCO Baseball Coach on Recruiting

    1h 47m
  6. Dugout Dish: In the Clubhouse with EMD | Should the 2030 Class Be Attending Camps Yet?

    FEB 16 · BONUS

    Dugout Dish: In the Clubhouse with EMD | Should the 2030 Class Be Attending Camps Yet?

    In this episode, we break down the truth about baseball camps and showcases for the 2030 class and younger players. If you’re a parent or player wondering whether 12U, 13U, or 14U athletes should attend recruiting showcases right now, this episode is for you.   We explain the current NCAA recruiting rules, who is actually allowed to attend showcases this time of year, and what college coaches can (and cannot) do when it comes to early recruiting. We also cover realistic college recruiting timelines and why most college baseball coaches are not focused on the 2030 class or younger prospects.   Finally, we share our honest thoughts on early showcasing, the pros and cons of playing in recruiting events at a young age, and what we believe is the best long-term development plan for youth baseball players who want to play college baseball.   If you’re trying to navigate youth baseball recruiting, travel ball decisions, and showcase strategy for middle school players, this episode will help you make smarter, more informed decisions. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com  Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith's Gloves(00:01:11) - In the Clubhouse: The Value of Exhibitions for 2030(00:09:49) - 7-Year-Old Baseball Prospects Getting Ranked(00:16:14) - 7th Grade Baseball Recruiting: Do They Care?

    19 min
4.9
out of 5
47 Ratings

About

With a combined 25 years of collegiate coaching experience at the Division I, II, and III levels we will bring you the latest insights, analysis, and interviews about the world of college baseball recruiting. Each week, we will break down topics relevant to the college baseball recruiting landscape. In addition to breaking down the latest recruiting news, we'll also be speaking with coaches and players around the country. Our guests will provide valuable insights into what it takes to make it as a college baseball player and share their experiences and knowledge of the recruiting process.Whether you're a high school player, parent, or coach looking to learn more about the recruiting process or gather insights from college coaches this podcast has something for everyone. So join us each week as we dive deep into the world of college baseball recruiting.

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