STIX BASEBALL PODCAST

TJ Stevens

⚾️Real baseball talk 🎙️The STIX Baseball Podcast covers everything from MLB headlines to youth baseball 🧢and the traditions that make the game great.

  1. 4d ago

    Who Deserves The Hardware? First Annual STIX Award Show | Episode 33 STIX Baseball Podcast

    EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Baseball's weirdest, funniest, and most brutal moments get the full red-carpet treatment in the first annual Stix Baseball Awards. If you love MLB chaos, hidden stats, disastrous injuries, and end-of-season debates that only baseball fans could have, this one is built for you.Tj Stevens and Jaxon kick things off with a quick wrap on the final stretch of the season - the playoff races tightening up, the Angels chasing an unwanted 100-loss milestone, and why the AL West might produce one of the strangest division winners in recent memory. They also break down Aaron Judge's latest injury, what it means for the Yankees, and whether baseball's playoff format still makes sense.Then the real fun starts.You'll get a full tour through 19 custom awards, including:The Anthony Rendone Award for the worst remaining contractThe Derek Jeter Award for the most surprising ironman seasonThe Pete Rose Award for the player your dad would absolutely loveThe Manny Machado Award for the most obscure stat of the yearThe Pittsburgh Pirates Award for the team that peaked way too earlyThe Skip Bayless Award for the worst preseason takeThe Chanhoe Park Award for the most disastrous inningThe Buster Posey Award for the worst injuryThe Lou Piniella Award for the biggest temper tantrumThe 50 Cent Award for the worst first pitchThe Saber Award for the wackiest baseball story ever toldAlong the way, they dig into outrageous real-life stats, perfect-game blunders, bizarre clubhouse moments, and the kind of injuries and decisions that make baseball feel equal parts ridiculous and genius. You'll hear why Rafael Devers, Salvador Perez, Steven Kwan, Chris Sale, Garrett Crochet, Cal Raleigh, Cam Schlittler, Tommy Pham, and others all found their way into the conversation - and why some of the most unforgettable baseball stories of the year were also the hardest to believe.This episode is part season recap, part comedy show, part baseball history lesson, and completely tailor-made for anyone who wants more than just box scores. Perfect for fans who love the sport's quirks, its absurdity, and the annual tradition of arguing about who really deserves hardware.#Baseball #MLB #MLBPodcast #BaseballPodcast #BaseballAwards #StixBaseball #BaseballFans #BaseballSeason #PlayoffBaseball #BaseballTalk #BaseballDebate #BaseballNews #BaseballHistory #FunnyBaseball #BaseballCulture #SportsPodcast #SportsTalk #EndOfSeason #baseballcommunity Show Notes and Results00:00 - Opening the first annual Sticks Baseball Awards02:03 - Globe Life Field and the modern stadium experience04:34 - Aaron Judge’s injury and the Yankees’ playoff outlook06:23 - Should MLB use an NBA-style playoff format?08:15 - Is the six seed actually the easier path?10:18 - Kicking off the Stix Baseball Awards11:49 - Anthony Rendone Award for worst remaining contract16:31 - Derek Jeter Award for most surprising player to play 150 games18:57 - Pete Rose Award for old school player your dad would love23:09 - Manny Machado Award for most obscure stat28:16 - Pittsburgh Pirates Award for team that wanted the playoffs to start in April31:04 - Skip Bayless Award for worst preseason take34:19 - Chanho Park Award for worst inning by a pitcher37:13 - Most forgettable team of the season40:25 - Julio Franco Award for most effective old guy43:18 - Buster Posey Award for worst injury49:48 - Lou Piniella Award for biggest temper tantrum54:11 - Benedict Arnold Award for worst American57:57 - Mickey Callaway Award for worst decision62:16 - Brady Fiegel Award for best doppelganger66:11 - 50 Cent Award for worst first pitch70:05 - Dr. Thomas DiLiberte Award for worst hamate bone72:41 - Trevor Bauer Award for least barbecue-friendly player75:08 - Zach Greinke Award for quirk of the year77:30 - SABR Award for wackiest baseball story82:00 - Wrapping up the awards show and heading toward playoff baseball

  2. Sep 19

    Baseball Glove Insiders | Tips & Tricks From The Pros | STIX Baseball Podcast: Episode 32

    EPISODE DESCRIPTIONOne bad relace can ruin a great glove, and most players are doing the rest of their glove care wrong too. Beehive Gloves owner Tony joins TJ Stevens to break down what really makes a glove last, perform, and feel right—from the hidden mistakes that kill leather early to the difference between a smart purchase and an expensive regret.Tony shares how Beehive Gloves started in 2020 during COVID after his daughters wanted custom gloves, and how a few YouTube videos, a lot of trial and error, and a growing passion for the craft turned into a real business in Salt Lake City. TJ and Tony also dig into the deeper side of glove work—why fit matters more than brand hype, why cheap laces and bad conditioner choices create bigger problems than most players realize, and why some of the most expensive gloves on the market are not the best choice for youth players.You'll discover: Why glove care matters more than most players thinkThe biggest relacing mistakes Tony made early on and how he fixed themWhy Mizuno is Tony's underrated pick and Wilson is his overrated oneWhich gloves are a pain to work on, including vintage gloves, Mizuno catcher’s mitts, and NokonasWhy expensive gloves are not automatically betterThe break-in methods Tony trusts—and the ones he refuses to useWhy “2 in the pinky” can help younger players more than traditional breaksHow to choose the right glove size by position and age, not just by brandTony also opens up about giving back through donated glove repurposing for kids who need equipment, partnering with local teams, and building a reputation on quality, aftercare, and doing the job right the first time. He and TJ get candid about pricing, customer expectations, and why the glove community is more collaborative than competitive.If you care about baseball or softball, or you're a parent trying to buy the right glove for your kid, this episode will save you money, frustration, and a few bad purchases. Perfect for players, parents, coaches, and anyone who wants their glove to last for years instead of months.Tony is the owner and operator of Beehive Gloves in Salt Lake City, Utah, known for relacing, repairing, and customizing gloves with a strong focus on craftsmanship and glove care. He also works with local teams and players, including the Salt Lake Bees, and has built Beehive into a trusted name through quality work and community support.Hashtags#Baseball #BaseballGloves #GloveCare #BaseballTips #YouthBaseball #BaseballParents #Softball #BaseballTraining #GloveRelacing #SportsEquipment #BaseballPodcast #BeehiveGloves #TJStevens

  3. Sep 12

    MLB Expansion Is Coming | SLC Front Runner? | Episode 31 STIX Baseball Podcast

    [EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Ready to publish]The playoff race is heating up, Aaron Judge is back, Shohei Ohtani is shutting it down, and one bizarre hat controversy has the baseball world arguing about respect, rules, and pure old-school baseball outrage.TJ Stevens and Jaxon hit the biggest stories shaping the final stretch of the MLB season, from the Yankees trying to finish strong with Judge returning to the Dodgers carefully managing Ohtani, to Pete Crow-Armstrong’s surge into the National League MVP conversation.Then things get weird. A rookie debut is overshadowed when an umpire reportedly makes an issue out of a crooked hat, sparking a full-on debate about baseball etiquette, umpire ego, and whether some “rules” are really just power trips in disguise.You’ll also hear a deep dive into MLB expansion and the cities suddenly in the mix, including Salt Lake City’s surprising lead, Nashville’s less-certain path, and why Raleigh, Portland, Orlando, and Montreal are all worth watching. TJ and Jaxon even map out their dream 32-team divisions, with Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Phillies, Cubs, Cardinals, Dodgers, Angels, and more all thrown into the same chaos.We break down the new-school baseball rules that have changed the game, including: the pitch clockthe ghost runner in extra inningslimited pickoff attemptsbigger basesthe three-batter minimumthe shift banSome rules get a reluctant pass. Others get absolutely roasted.And if you like baseball history, the episode closes with one of the wildest stories you’ve probably never heard: Ty Cobb, a fan with no hands, a suspended star, a protest by the entire Tigers team, and a replacement lineup of local amateurs and coaches who somehow ended up taking the field in a real MLB game.Perfect for baseball fans who want the latest playoff talk, sharp opinions, weird history, and a few strong takes that will probably make you argue back.

  4. Aug 29

    Old School Baseball Is Disappearing… Is That a Bad Thing? | STIX Baseball Podcast Ep. 29

    Old-school baseball is disappearing, and Travis Stevens is not happy about it. The Stevens Truck Power owner and longtime diesel mechanic joins TJ Stevens and Jaxon for a wide-open conversation about running a heavy-duty repair business, raising competitive kids, and why baseball used to feel tougher, cleaner, and more disciplined.Travis shares what most people get wrong about the trucking industry, from jaw-dropping fuel costs and insurance bills to the tiny efficiency gains that can save fleets a million dollars a year. He also opens up about the lessons he wishes he had learned earlier in business, including why giving too many deals away can quietly cost you more than you realize.Then the episode shifts into one of the best father-son baseball conversations you’ll hear all year. Travis talks youth baseball from a parent’s perspective, the difference between practice and empty reps, how to push kids without burning them out, and why follow-through matters when a player makes a commitment. TJ adds his own perspective on what it was like growing up all-in on baseball, including the gap between being a great defender and the kind of power MLB teams chase today.You'll discover:Why trucking costs ripple all the way down to grocery pricesThe business lesson Travis learned too late: your time has valueHow social media turned a Fillmore shop into a nationwide destinationWhy practice, not games, is where young players really developWhat Travis would change about modern baseball, from the pitch clock to replayThe old-school values he thinks the sport has lostTravis also gets into the fun stuff, including the wildest roadside service call he’s ever seen, a bobcat-in-the-cab story you won’t forget, and a behind-the-scenes look at Stevens Truck Power’s YouTube channel and a build for Heavy D’s Sparks Motors.Essential listening if you love baseball, appreciate hard-earned business wisdom, or just want to hear a brutally honest take on how sports and work used to be done.#Baseball #MLB #BaseballPodcast #YouthBaseball #OldSchoolBaseball #STIXBaseball #diesel #dieselengine #stevenstruckpower #repairs

  5. Aug 23

    Episode 28

    [EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Ready to publish]A 22-0 bloodbath, a rookie debut for the ages, and a season full of baseball chaos. TJ Stevens and Jaxon break down the most bizarre, frustrating, and flat-out hilarious storylines around the league - from the Mariners getting embarrassed by the Brewers to Cal Raleigh’s brutal slide, ketell Marte’s unexplained absence, and Kyle Tucker’s rough first year in Dodger blue.They also dig into the players quietly or not-so-quietly becoming this season’s biggest talking points. You’ll hear why Paul Skenes’ dip in velocity is raising eyebrows, how Joshua Baez turned his MLB debut into instant history with three home runs in three at-bats, and why Craig Kimbrel’s never-ending tour through the majors has become its own running joke.Plus, the guys draft the most compelling postseason races left on the board, debate which team is the biggest disappointment in baseball, and make the case for the Cubs, Padres, Diamondbacks, Yankees, Red Sox, and more as the playoff picture gets tighter by the day.And then the episode takes a left turn into one of baseball’s wildest old-school conspiracies involving Cal Ripken Jr., Kevin Costner, and a mysteriously delayed game that still has people arguing years later. If you love baseball discourse that’s equal parts smart, chaotic, and weirdly entertaining, this one is must-listen.Perfect for fans who want sharp opinions, league-wide chaos, and the kind of baseball conversation that always finds its way back to the sport’s strangest stories. Keywords: baseball podcast, MLB discussion, Mariners Brewers, Cal Raleigh, Cattell Marte, Kyle Tucker, Paul Skenes, Joshua Baez, Craig Kimbrel, MLB playoffs, baseball news, baseball analysis, baseball chaos, TJ Stevens, JaxonHashtags: #MLB #BaseballPodcast #Baseball #BaseballNews #MLBPlayoffs #Mariners #Brewers #Dodgers #Cubs #Yankees #RedSox #Padres #Diamondbacks #PaulSkenes #CalRaleigh

  6. Aug 17

    STIX Baseball Podcast: Episode 27

    # Reviving the Game: Inside Grip and Rip Football Prep > Discover how Caleb Walton transforms footballs for peak performance. Caleb Walton, the mastermind behind Grip and Rip Football Prep, brings a unique perspective to the world of football preparation. With over 12 years of experience, Caleb has honed his craft to ensure that every football sent out of his shop is ready for peak performance. ## The Journey of Grip and Rip Caleb’s journey began during his college days at Lockheaven University, where he played quarterback. After learning about a special football preparation technique from an NFL equipment manager, he started experimenting with different methods to enhance the feel and performance of footballs. > "A prepping formula, a good one will expedite that in a couple of days and get a football that feels like it's ten years old in a matter of a couple of days." Caleb’s experimentation led him to create a business that not only revitalizes old footballs but also tailors to the specific preferences of each quarterback he works with. His ability to adapt and innovate has made him a go-to resource for players at all levels. ## The Art of Football Preparation Caleb explains that the key to great footballs lies in understanding what each quarterback wants. It's not just about making a ball look good; it's about how it feels. > "When you take it out of the package, do you feel confident like you did? Could I make every throw that I would want to?" From working with NFL quarterbacks to high school players, Caleb takes pride in delivering footballs that meet their exact specifications. His attention to detail and commitment to quality have set him apart in a niche market. ## The Pressure of the Super Bowl One of Caleb's most exciting experiences was prepping footballs for a Super Bowl. With a tight deadline and high stakes, he managed to prepare and deliver 108 footballs, ensuring they met the exact standards of the players. > "It was probably the most exciting, stressful eight days that I've ever experienced." This level of commitment reflects not only his passion for the game but also the trust that players place in his work. ## A Personal Touch Caleb’s approach goes beyond just the technical aspects of football prep. He builds relationships with his clients, often sharing moments of joy as they enjoy the revitalized equipment. > "I've been throwing ball with my seven-year-old son, and it's like, Man, this is sweet. This is really sweet." His work has a profound impact, allowing players to connect with the sport on a deeper level. ## Final Thoughts Caleb Walton's journey in football preparation is a testament to the blend of passion, skill, and innovation. By focusing on the needs of players and the nuances of the game, he has carved out a unique niche that not only enhances performance but also enriches the experience of playing football. For anyone interested in the intricate world of sports preparation, Caleb’s story is a fascinating look at how meticulous care can make all the difference in performance.

  7. Aug 8

    The STIX Baseball Podcast: Episode 26 Trade deadline Chaos

    # Post-Trade Deadline Chaos: Insights and Surprises > Reflecting on the whirlwind of trades and their implications. The trade deadline has come and gone, and what a frenzy it turned out to be! With 42 trades and 118 players involved, it was a whirlwind few days in baseball. Tj Stevens and Jaxon dive into their first thoughts on the chaos and highlight key trades that shaped the landscape. ## A Wild Deadline Tj kicked things off with a nod to the unexpected nature of this year's trade deadline. "It was just the complete opposite of what I thought it was gonna be. It was chaos," Jaxon echoed, emphasizing the surprise of such a bustling market. Tj noted how overwhelmed insiders must feel, saying, "It's gotta be extremely overwhelming... they're trying to talk to execs, verify info, and manage all the tips and leads. That’s gotta be exhausting." ## Notable Trades One standout trade was Freddie Peralta going to the Rays for three prospects. "I have to eat a little bit of crow. You were right, and I was wrong," Jaxon admitted, giving Tj credit for predicting this move. They both reflected on the rarity of such aggressive moves from the Rays, who typically play it safe. Jaxon called the trade "not their usual way," but Tj was optimistic about Peralta's potential to turn things around with the Rays, stating, "I think he's a good fit." Another surprise was Liam Hendricks' trade to the Rays for three prospects, which left both hosts puzzled. Jaxon remarked, "I think it was just one of those that they were like, you know what? A ton of contenders need catchers." The Marlins' decision to part with a valuable asset like Hendricks raised eyebrows, showing the intensity of the negotiations. ## Cubs' Bold Moves The Cubs made some significant trades, including acquiring Clay Holmes to bolster their pitching rotation. Tj remarked, "I'm not overwhelmed by Clay Holmes... but for what they paid, this is a good move for the Cubs," highlighting the strategic nature of the transaction. Jaxon noted the Yankees made a more subdued move by trading for Luis Garcia Jr. from the Nationals, which left them needing more splashy trades to match their current position in the division. ## The Red Sox Surprise The biggest shocker came when Adley Rutschman was traded to the Red Sox, prompting Tj to express surprise at the deal. Jaxon, who was in Boston at the time, shared the excitement in the city, noting, "the atmosphere at the game was just incredible." Reflecting on the trade, Tj said, "I thought the Red Sox overpaid a little, but I really like this move. A change of scenery is gonna be great for Rutschman." Jaxon likened the trade to overspending on a premium stereo for a car, noting that while it might feel like a stretch, the enjoyment it brings during long trips makes it worthwhile. ## Final Thoughts As the dust settles from this chaotic trade deadline, both Tj and Jaxon highlight the excitement and unpredictability that come with such significant moves. The landscape of the league has shifted, and it will be interesting to see how these trades play out as the season continues. For more in-depth analysis and to hear the full conversation, tune into the episode!

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⚾️Real baseball talk 🎙️The STIX Baseball Podcast covers everything from MLB headlines to youth baseball 🧢and the traditions that make the game great.