The D2 Baseball Podcast

D2 Baseball
  • 4.8 (6)
  • Baseball
  • Updated Weekly

Watch the D2 Baseball Podcast on YouTube and listen/watch here on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow on X and Instagram at @diviibaseball.

  1. Aug 25

    Building a Blue-Collar Powerhouse: Jeff May Takes the Reins at Barton College

    In this episode, host Robert Frey kicks off the 2026-2027 head coaching changes series with special guest Jeff May, the newly appointed head baseball coach at Barton College. Coach May stops by on campus move-in day to share his journey from being a standout catcher to a successful pitching coach, his strategy for assembling a trusted coaching staff, and his vision for building a blue-collar, developmental-focused powerhouse in eastern North Carolina.Chapters00:06 - IntroductionThe show opens with host Robert Frey welcoming Barton College Head Coach Jeff May to discuss the upcoming 2026-2027 season on campus move-in day.00:21 - Conversations Leading to the Barton JobCoach May discusses his deep familiarity with Conference Carolinas and explains why taking the head coaching position at Barton College felt like the perfect fit given the community's rich baseball history.02:06 - Navigating and Winning in Conference CarolinasCoach May shares his thoughts on whether his decade-plus of experience in the conference provides an advantage, highlighting the depth and toughness of the league's coaching and programs.03:15 - Transitioning from Catcher to Pitching CoachReflecting on his playing career at North Carolina and Lander, Coach May explains how his lifelong background as a catcher helped him transition into a successful pitching coach without preconceived biases.06:16 - Head Coaching Role vs. Assistant Role & Staff InvolvementCoach May outlines his philosophy as a head coach, emphasizing the importance of taking a step back to view the program as a whole while allowing his newly assembled coaching staff to lead their respective positions.08:28 - Building the Barton Coaching StaffA look into how Coach May intentionally recruited a loyal, hard-working staff comprised of trusted peers and former players to foster natural camaraderie and continuity in the front office.10:06 - Selling Recruits on Player DevelopmentCoach May dives into how Barton navigates the shifting landscape of college recruiting, explaining his pitch to high school athletes regarding authentic relationships and a heavy focus on individual player development.12:40 - Summer Recruiting ChallengesCoach May details the quick turnaround and fast-paced challenges of utilizing summer ball leagues, video scouting, and trusted alumni networks to finalize the program's roster goals.14:36 - The Excitement of Nixon FieldCoach May shares his appreciation for Nixon Field, highlighting the stadium's premium Bermuda grass, advanced tracking technology, and the continuous support from dedicated program alumni.14:58 - Defining Traits of the Barton BulldogsLooking ahead to the Spring of 2027, Coach May establishes the exact identity he wants his team to project: a gritty, passionate, blue-collar squad that plays the game the right way.15:23 - Influential People and MentorsIn the final segment, Coach May pays tribute to the key figures who shaped his career, beginning with his father as a long-time high school coach, alongside various mentors from his playing and assistant coaching days.

  2. Jul 27

    Proof That D2 Grittiness Pays Off: Jake Berkland's Journey from No Offers to the MLB

    In this episode of the D2 Baseball Podcast, host Robert Frey is joined by former Minnesota State standout Jake Berkland!Jake shares his incredible journey from arriving on campus as a 140-pound redshirt freshman to transforming his game in the weight room and ultimately getting selected by the Chicago White Sox in the 19th round of the 2026 MLB Draft.In this episode, we discuss:Draft Day Emotions: What it was like getting the call from the White Sox surrounded by family and friends.The Minnesota State Journey: Jake's transition from the outfield to shortstop, and the impact of the Maverick coaching staff.The "Grind" of Summer Ball: Playing three seasons in the Northwoods League with the Wausau Woodchucks and how it prepared him for the pro schedule.Moving Forward with the White Sox: His first impressions of the organization and what he is looking forward to as he heads out to Arizona.Advice for D2 Athletes: The "gritty" nature of Division II baseball and why loving the game for the right reasons is the key to success.Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive interviews and coverage of everything Division II baseball!#D2Baseball #MLBDraft

  3. Jul 24

    Grayson Chappell - Central Missouri 18th Round Pick by the Los Angeles Angels (MLB Draft Interview)

    In this episode of the D2 Baseball Podcast, host Robert Frey sits down with right-handed pitcher Grayson Chappell from the University of Central Missouri (UCM) to discuss his incredible journey to professional baseball.Selected in the 18th round of the 2026 MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Angels, Grayson shares the behind-the-scenes experience of draft day, the emotional moment he heard his name called, and the hard work that paved the way.We dive into:Draft Day Emotions: The anticipation of waiting for the call and celebrating the life-changing moment with his family.His Journey Through the Ranks: From starting at the D1 level (Miami Ohio) to grinding through JUCO at Paris Junior College, and how those experiences shaped him on and off the field.Shining at Central Missouri: His recruitment, working with pitching coach Eli, and the unforgettable experience of pitching at Daikin Park in Houston.A Championship Culture: What made the UCM pitching staff so special, navigating the highly competitive MIAA conference, and playing alongside drafted teammates like Jack Scott.Advice for D2 Athletes: Grayson's words of wisdom for Division II players hoping to catch the eyes of MLB scouts.Subscribe to the channel for more D2 Baseball content, player interviews, and draft coverage!#MLBDraft #D2Baseball

  4. Jul 22

    Drafted to the Rockies! Interview with Central Missouri's Jack Scott-7th Round Draft Pick

    Welcome back to the D2 Baseball podcast! In this episode, host Robert Frey sits down with right-handed pitcher Jack Scott from the University of Central Missouri (UCM), who was selected in the 7th round of the 2026 MLB draft by the Colorado Rockies. Jack shares his incredible draft-day experience, his reaction to getting drafted much earlier than anticipated, and how he is navigating his path to the big leagues while rehabbing a UCL injury. In this video, we discuss: The Draft Day Call: Jack talks about celebrating with family and friends and the exact moment he received the text from the Rockies. Overcoming Adversity: Navigating a shortened season due to a UCL tear and finding support from former teammate Nathan Hall, who went through a similar injury rehab process before being drafted by the Mets last season. UCM's Championship Run: Reflecting on his dominant 2025 season (85.2 innings pitched, All-MIAA selection) and pitching in the National Championship series. The Mules Legacy & Coaching: How the UCM coaching staff prepares players to win and why the program has such a strong track record of getting players drafted, including Jack's teammate Greyson Chappel (Angels). Advice for D2 Athletes: Jack’s key advice for Division II players looking to make it to the professional level. Make sure to like, subscribe, and comment for more exclusive interviews and coverage of Division II baseball! #MLBdraft #D2Baseball

  5. Jul 21

    From 1 D2 Offer to the 6th Round! Seton Hill's Owen Henne and His Journey to the St. Louis Cardinals

    In this episode, host Robert Frey is joined by a very special guest: Seton Hill shortstop Owen Henne. Henne was selected in the 6th round of the 2026 MLB Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals, making him the very first Division II player taken off the board this year.Join us as we talk about his journey from being a "late bloomer" with only one D2 offer to becoming a top-round draft pick.In this interview, we discuss:Draft Day Emotions: Owen takes us through the moment he received the call from his agent on the back porch with his family, and what it was like waiting for his name to be streamed on TV.His Career at Seton Hill: How Coach Marrizaldi took a chance on him, dealing with an early-season hamstring injury, and the family culture that defines the program.The Talent in the PSAC: Discussing the competitive nature of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference and following in the footsteps of fellow conference players making it to the pros.Player Development & Mindset: The complete swing and mindset changes he made after his freshman year to generate more power and success at the plate.The MLB Draft League: His experience facing high-level velocity in the West Virginia Draft League and how it prepared him for the draft.Advice for D2 Players: Owen breaks down his approach to hitting, the importance of in-zone contact, and why simplifying the game is the ultimate key to reaching professional baseball.Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive interviews and coverage of Division II baseball!#MLBDraft #D2Baseball

  6. Jul 20

    Evan Morrison - 10th Round Draft Pick by the Texas Rangers from Grand Valley State

    Evan Morrison, a standout shortstop from Grand Valley State University (GVSU), joins the podcast to discuss his journey from Canadian college ball to being selected by the Texas Rangers in the 10th round of the 2026 MLB Draft.In this video:The Big Call: Evan shares the surreal moment he got "the call" from the Rangers' GM while in the dugout during the Canadian Baseball League All-Star game.An Unconventional Path: From starting at the University of Waterloo in Ontario to a stint in NAIA at McPherson College, Evan reflects on the unique collegiate journey that ultimately led him to GVSU.Elite Contact Skills: A look at the eye-popping stats that caught the attention of scouts—including a 2026 season where he struck out only seven times in 288 plate appearances.Defensive Evolution: How working with GVSU assistant coach Pete Romsek helped Evan transition from a two-way player and second baseman to an elite Division II shortstopAdvice for the Next Generation: Evan offers his best advice for D2 players looking to make it to the next level: play to your specific strengths and become elite at what you do bestSubscribe to D2 Baseball for future content!#d2baseball #mlbdraft

  7. Jun 25

    Inside Tampa’s Historic Three-Peat with Head Coach Joe Urso

    The University of Tampa Spartans just did something no other Division II baseball program has ever accomplished: winning three back-to-back-to-back National Championships. Robert sits down with Head Coach Joe Urso to break down this historic run and look at how the program continues to reach unparalleled heights. In this interview, Coach Urso takes us behind the scenes of the 2026 season, discussing the distinct challenges of integrating 22 new players and overcoming critical injuries to key starters early in the year. He highlights the absolute dominance of his pitching rotation—anchored by Satin, Bailey, and Glanton—and praises Associate Head Coach Sam Militello's masterful development and calling of the staff. We also dive into the unsung heroes of the playoff run. Coach Urso breaks down two-way standout Luke Fer's vital role out of the bullpen, Brayden Woodburn's clutch postseason hitting, and catcher Jhoander Irigoyen's leadership behind the dish. Beyond the diamond, Coach Urso shares the true secret to the program's enduring success over his 26 years at the helm: an unwavering standard of excellence, a coaching staff of devoted alumni, and a deeply ingrained culture of family. Key Topics Covered:The Historic Three-Peat: What it took to win the rubber match against West Chester with a taxed, but highly motivated, pitching staff. Stepping Up in the Clutch: How players like Luke Firar and Jhoander Irigoyen carried the team on both sides of the ball when the offense struggled early.Overcoming Adversity: Navigating the loss of key contributors like Sammy Beir and Maddox King to early-season injuries. The Tampa Spartan Culture: The "National Championship or bust" mentality instilled from day one, and the importance of having alumni coaches like Sam Militello and Jose Jimenez leading the charge. Chasing the Four-Peat: Coach Urso's mindset heading into the 2027 season and the lifelong brotherhood forged by the 22 new players who helped secure the latest title.

  8. Jun 4

    2026 DII Baseball National Championship Series Preview

    The top two seeds collide in Cary for the 2026 D2 baseball championship series! Join Robert Frey and Wayne Cavadi of the DII Report as they break down the epic best-of-three matchup between West Chester and Tampa. Both teams have dominated their paths to the finals, playing nearly flawless baseball without major mistakes. Tampa enters the series leading D2 in multiple categories, including fielding percentage, while West Chester brings a program-record 47 wins and a massive postseason run differential. In this video, we dive into: Pitching Matchups: A look at the dominant rotations, featuring Tampa’s Robert Satin and B.J. Bailey against Westchester’s Julian Costa. Offensive Firepower: Analyzing West Chester's "run-scoring machine" and Brayden Woodburn’s incredible .692 average in Cary for the Spartans. Key Trends: Will West Chester break the trend of conference champions taking the title? Series Predictions: Why this clash of titans is likely heading to a decisive Game 3. Series Schedule (All times 6 PM Eastern): Game 1: Thursday, June 4th Game 2: Friday, June 5th Game 3 (If necessary): Saturday, June 6th Catch the games live on ncaa.com/champs-pass as the 2026 D2 sports season comes to a thrilling conclusion! #D2Baseball #WestChester #Tampa #NCAABaseball

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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
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About

Watch the D2 Baseball Podcast on YouTube and listen/watch here on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow on X and Instagram at @diviibaseball.

Information

  • Creator
    D2 Baseball
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © D2 Baseball
  • Show Website
    The D2 Baseball Podcast