Ep 51 | Kicking Off 2026: A New Year in Minnesota Baseball

In this episode of Ducks On The Pond, we chat with MASH's Steve McGuiggan to delve into the current state of baseball training, recruitment strategies, and the importance of commitment in player development.  We highlight standout MASH players from different classes, emerging talents, and the evolving landscape of youth baseball in Minnesota. Subscribe & listen. 

In this episode Andy Judkins and Parker Hageman welcome Brandon Hunt, the assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for NDSU baseball. They discuss the upcoming season, the challenges of recruiting in the Dakotas, and the importance of preparing players for high-level competition. Coach Hunt shares insights from his coaching journey, the evolving landscape of college baseball recruiting, and the unique culture of NDSU baseball. The conversation also touches on the impact of the transfer portal, player development, and the excitement surrounding the new season. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to NDSU Baseball Season 02:57 Super 60 Insights and Player Performance 05:58 Preparing for the Florida Trip 08:53 Brandon Hunt's Coaching Journey 11:59 Recruiting Landscape Changes 14:47 Talent Development in the Dakotas 17:59 Recruiting Philosophy and Challenges 21:01 Attributes of a Bison Player 24:07 Campus Visits and Facilities 26:54 Road Warrior Experience 29:58 Summit League Competition 32:49 Transfer Portal Impact 35:46 Player Spotlights for the Upcoming Season 38:57 Favorite Stadiums and Game Experiences 41:51 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

In this episode, Andy Judkins and Parker Hageman welcome Rob Allison as they kick off the new year with a recap of the previous baseball season and a look ahead to 2026. The conversation begins with light-hearted banter about the holidays and transitions into a discussion about the impressive number of commitments from Minnesota baseball players, highlighting the growth of talent in the region. They reflect on various events from the past year, including the successful showcases and the emergence of standout players, particularly from central Minnesota. The trio emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities for young athletes to be seen by college scouts and the excitement surrounding upcoming events like the Preseason All-State and Baseball Day Minnesota. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to 2026: New Beginnings 06:36 Recap of 2025: Commitments and Highlights 14:10 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Events and Opportunities 20:34 Spotlight on Players: Emerging Talent in Minnesota 29:17 The Importance of Showcases and Recruitment 54:55 Closing Thoughts: Excitement for the Season Ahead

Andy Judkins and Parker Hageman are joined by St. John's head coach Scott Lieser. He talks about the current D3 landscape, how he recruits for his program, and replacing a legendary coach.  Subscribe and follow. 

Rosemount's Jacob Michel is coming off a year in which his high school team went to state, he played for Team Minnesota at the Future Games, and made his college commitment to Oregon. Michel talks about his journey from being a Junior Future Games player to how he is focusing on his offseason development to prepare himself for the next level. Put this episode in your ears and pump it up.  Subscribe on all major podcast platforms. 

We're back with another season of Ducks On The Pond. To start Season 4, we're joined by Connor Gandossy, the University of Minnesota's Hitting Coach & Recruiting Coordinator.  In this episode, Coach Gandossy talks about his view on the current recruiting landscape, what he looks for in his talent evaluation process, and how the Gophers are set up for offensive success in 2026.  Listen and subscibe. 

In this episode, Owen Marsolek, Prep Baseball Minnesota's Player of the Year, reflects on his high school baseball journey, discussing his impressive statistics, team dynamics, and the importance of mentorship. He shares insights on preparing for college baseball, the significance of physical development, and his favorite places to play and eat in Duluth. The conversation highlights the challenges and excitement of transitioning from high school to collegiate baseball, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, preparation, and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Owen Marsolek 02:36 Reflecting on a Successful Duluth Marshall Season 04:47 Team Dynamics and Leadership 07:04 Preparing for the Next Level 09:23 Future Aspirations and College Decisions 11:44 Favorite Memories and Local Favorites

In this episode, we dive into the world of high school baseball with Kade Wede from Harrisburg High School (SD). Kade shares insights on the upcoming season, team dynamics, and the rigorous training regimen that has helped him grow as an athlete. He discusses his experiences at various showcases, the importance of mental strength in sports, and his nutritional strategies for performance enhancement. As he looks forward to future opportunities, Kade expresses excitement about competing at a higher level and the potential for a state title this season. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Harrisburg High School Baseball 02:55 Team Dynamics and Expectations for the Season 06:05 Training Regimen and Personal Development 08:54 Showcase Experiences and Competitions 11:55 Physical Growth and Nutrition Strategies 14:50 Mental Game and Personal Goals 18:08 Future Aspirations and Team Opportunities

In this episode, we sit down with the St. Thomas pitching coach Neal Kunick to discuss their approach to recruiting, player development, and building a competitive Division I program. Coach Kunick share insights on what they look for in a recruit, the importance of high baseball IQ, and how they develop athletes both on and off the field. We also dive into their Midwest-focused recruiting strategy, the challenges and benefits of playing in Minnesota's climate, and the future of the program's facilities. Plus, hear how St. Thomas is making a name for itself on the national stage while staying true to its four-year development model.

In this episode of Ducks on the Pond, Blaine Barthel, head coach at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC), discusses his coaching journey and the rapid growth of the Blue Knights program.  He shares his path from playing at Itasca CC and UMD to coaching at various levels before taking over at DCTC. Bartle emphasizes developing Minnesota talent, leveraging technology, and overcoming the challenges of northern baseball to build a top-tier JUCO program. He highlights DCTC's growing reputation as a pipeline to higher levels, with recent players moving on to Division I schools. His vision is clear: establish DCTC as a premier Midwest JUCO and help players succeed at the next level.