The On Deck Podcast

Episode 37| From D3 to D2 with Mateo Santos

Episode 37 of The On Deck Podcast features a special guest and former D’Youville teammate, Mateo Santos — my 7th-floor neighbour and day-one Spartan from the 2019–2020 season. We talk about his journey from joining a D3 program to graduating from a D2 school, the culture shift that came with it, and whether he’d change anything about his career as a C/1B. Mateo shares what people on the outside don’t understand about the college baseball grind, the toughest battles in intersquads, and the lessons the game taught him over four years. Of course, we couldn’t let him leave without talking Red Sox baseball and his thoughts on the team’s new additions heading into this season. A fun, honest conversation about growth, loyalty, and sticking it out when things don’t go as planned. Don't forget to like and subscribe!  Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast Follow Mateo On Socials: https://www.instagram.com/mateo__santos/

Episode 36| Breaking the Bank: Bellinger, Tucker & Bo Free-Agent Deals

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, I’m joined by AJ Rowe from the Painting the Black podcast for a deep dive into MLB’s biggest free-agent moves. We break down the headline signings of Cody Bellinger, Kyle Tucker, and Bo Bichette, giving our honest reactions to the contracts and team fits. From value to long-term impact, we analyze what these deals mean for the league moving forward. We also wrap things up by discussing the marquee names still left on the free-agent board and where they could land next. Don't forget to like and subscribe!  Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast

Episode 35| Who’s Getting Paid? Hitter Free Agency With AJ Rowe

On this episode of The On Deck Podcast, AJ Rowe joins me to cover the full spectrum of MLB hitter free agency, from star bats and everyday contributors to depth pieces and bounce-back candidates. We break down how players like Cedric Mullins, Pete Alonso, Kyle Schwarber, Ha-Seong Kim, Adolis García, and Jorge Polanco fit into their new teams, looking at roles, versatility, defence, and lineup impact rather than just the contract numbers. Whether it’s platoon options, injury insurance, or upside plays, this episode dives into how teams are attacking the market in very different ways—and which moves could quietly matter most this season. Don't forget to like and subscribe!  Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast

Episode 34| The Tommy John Journey With Josh Kalmin

In this episode of the On Deck Podcast, Josh Kalmin takes us back to the moment he realized something was truly wrong with his arm. He walks us through the emotions leading up to surgery, the toughest parts of early rehab, and the mental battles that come with rebuilding from scratch. We dive into the milestones of his throwing program, the moments of doubt, and how he eventually regained his strength and confidence on the mound. Josh’s story is an honest, detailed look at what it really takes to come back from Tommy John and pitch again. Don't forget to like and subscribe!  Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast Follow Josh On Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/joshkalmin/

Episode 33| A World Series for the Ages: Dodgers vs. Blue Jays

Episode 33 of The On Deck Podcast dives deep into one of the most dramatic and unpredictable World Series matchups in recent memory — the Blue Jays vs. the Dodgers. Roberto breaks down every game, from the Jays’ explosive Game 1 and Addison Barger’s historic pinch-hit grand slam to Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s complete-game masterpiece in Game 2 and Shohei Ohtani’s offensive dominance in Game 3. The series was a rollercoaster of emotions — extra-inning marathons, controversial calls, clutch home runs, and breakout performances like rookie Trey Yesavage’s electric outings. Ultimately, the Dodgers repeated as World Series champions, led by Yamamoto’s heroic relief appearance on no rest. Despite the heartbreak, Roberto highlights how this series cemented Toronto’s legitimacy as a powerhouse and left fans with unforgettable baseball moments. Don't forget to like and subscribe!  Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast