The On Deck Podcast

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/theondeckpodcastFollow Mateo On Socials: https://www.instagram.com/mateo__santos/ 

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

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

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/theondeckpodcastFollow Josh On Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/joshkalmin/

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

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, I sit down with my mom and my brother, Lu, for a fun family debate about the game we all know and love. We talk about who the most talented player of all time is, what the hardest position in baseball might be, and how to make the game more exciting for casual fans. Plus, Lu gets called out to see how many at-bats he’d need to get a hit off a 95 mph fastball. A mix of laughs, opinions, and classic family banter — this one’s a good one. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast

In Episode 31 of the On Deck Podcast, I’m joined by a longtime teammate and battery mate, Graham Henry. From our days together in 18U Leaside to linking up again this past summer with Leaside Senior, we’ve built years of chemistry on the diamond. We dive into Graham’s unique perspective, having played in both the OUA with Laurier and the OCAA with Seneca, breaking down the differences and tendencies he’s seen in each league. Graham also shares what it’s like catching all nine positions, his favourite pitcher to work with, and the toughest parts of being a catcher that often go unnoticed. We wrap up with his advice for aspiring catchers and his take on the ABS shaping the game. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcastFollow Graham On Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/grahamhenry14/

Episode 30 of The On Deck Podcast is a milestone as Roberto delivers the very first video podcast. This episode dives into his trip to Regina for the Senior Baseball Nationals, giving listeners an inside look at the week-long experience. Roberto sits down with players to capture their perspectives while also sharing his own reflections on the tournament. The mix of interviews, stories, and personal insight makes it feel like you’re right there with the team. It’s authentic, engaging, and a fresh step forward for the podcast. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast

In episode 29 of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto covers several major MLB headlines, including Roman Anthony’s surprising eight-year, $180M extension with the Red Sox, Lourdes Gurriel Jr.’s record-setting homer off 104 mph heat from Mason Miller, and Devin Williams’ rough season with the Yankees. He also dives into the Angels’ unexpected 5-0 dominance over the Dodgers this year, highlighted by a lightning-fast triple play. The episode wraps up with two big milestones — Justin Verlander’s 3,500th career strikeout and Pete Alonso becoming the Mets’ all-time home run leader. Roberto mixes in personal takes, a rant on Williams’ struggles, and a nod to potential future milestones like Giancarlo Stanton’s march toward 500 homers. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast

On Episode 28 of The On Deck Podcast, host Roberto breaks down the wild 2025 MLB Trade Deadline. The Padres made the biggest splash, landing flamethrower Mason Miller and adding serious depth across the board. The Mariners quietly won big too, adding power bats like Eugenio Suárez and Josh Naylor without giving up top prospects. Meanwhile, the Astros shocked everyone by bringing back Carlos Correa, and the Twins went full rebuild, shipping out 10 players. Let’s dive into the biggest winners, head-scratching moves, and what it all means for October. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast

In Episode 27 of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto dives deep into the 2025 All-Star festivities, covering everything from the Futures Game to the revamped Home Run Derby and the dramatic All-Star Game itself. He highlights standout performances from rising prospects like Trey Yeasavage, Jonah Tong, and George Lombard Jr., and voices his frustration with the Futures Game being limited to just seven innings. Roberto also shares thoughts on the new swing-off format that decided the All-Star Game, Cal Raleigh’s derby win, and Paul Skenes’ electric start. Wrapping up the episode, he reflects on the excitement of seeing the MLB’s future unfold and teases upcoming trade deadline content.Ask ChatGPT

In Episode 26 of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto breaks down both the American and National League All-Star ballots, spotlighting major snubs like Jonathan Aranda, Brandon Lowe, Jeremy Peña, Byron Buxton, Hunter Goodman, Elly De La Cruz, and James Wood. He critiques the flaws in the fan voting process, arguing it often favours popularity over performance, with examples like Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, and Teoscar Hernández. Roberto offers his deserving picks backed by stats and context, and wraps the episode with a wild James Wood stat and a tease for a returning guest to discuss trades and league leaders. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast 

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto sits down with pitcher Malkolm Barrett for a deep dive into the art and mindset of pitching. They discuss when Malkolm first started taking pitching seriously, his pregame rituals, and the toughest pitch he’s had to master. He shares what pitch he leans on in high-pressure moments and the one he's working to add to his arsenal. The conversation wraps with his take on the swing-and-miss vs. pitch-to-contact debate and what truly separates a good pitcher from a great one. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast 

In episode 24 of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto covers a wave of exciting MLB prospect call-ups—highlighting Jack Caglianone, Jacob Misiorowski, Roman Anthony, and Christian Moore—and breaks down their early performances and long-term upside. He also reacts to the shocking Rafael Devers trade from the Red Sox to the Giants, questioning Boston’s direction while praising San Francisco’s push for contention. The episode includes a look at how teams are managing rosters amid injuries, Shohei Ohtani’s electric return to the mound, and a shoutout to Andrew McCutchen for reaching a franchise milestone, all while building anticipation for the playoff race and the upcoming All-Star break. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Follow Me On Socials: www.liinks.co/theondeckpodcast 

In Episode 23 of the On Deck podcast, host Roberto breaks down Tarik Skubal’s dominant Maddux performance against the Guardians, praising his elite command and rising Cy Young candidacy. He also covers a string of pitching injuries around the league, including Ronel Blanco, A.J. Smith-Shawver, and Evan Phillips, and what they mean for teams like the Astros and Braves. Roberto analyzes the Dodgers-Reds trade that brought Alexis Díaz to L.A., calling it a potential steal despite Díaz's recent struggles. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check out the Painting the Black Podcast!https://open.spotify.com/show/4pbWAg0cQsMWIHxtFzHhfK?si=a16ba378540848adhttps://www.instagram.com/paintingtheblackbb/?hl=en

In episode 22 of the On Deck podcast, Roberto breaks down Ronald Acuña Jr.'s electric return to the Braves following his ACL rehab, highlighting concerns about his speed on the basepaths. He then covers Alex Bregman's unfortunate quad injury and how it led to top Red Sox prospect Marcelo Mayer's MLB debut, with potential lineup implications. Roberto also praises Pete Crow-Armstrong’s breakout season, as he’s evolved into an elite offensive and defensive threat for the Cubs. Lastly, he shares tough news from the Pirates, with Jared Jones needing Tommy John surgery, and urges the team to call up Bubba Chandler to fill the gap. Don't forget to follow and subscribe! 

In this week’s episode of On Deck, we break down the latest wave of MLB roster moves—from Roki Sasaki’s concerning injury and drop in velocity to the Dodgers DFA'ing longtime vets Austin Barnes and Chris Taylor, and calling up top prospect Dalton Rushing. We also cover the Cubs' promotion of Moisés Ballesteros, Brandon Hyde’s firing in Baltimore, and the Orioles’ struggles that could lead to a major deadline sell-off. Lastly, we recap a wild weekend in baseball with the Subway Series and Freeway Series, Aaron Judge's insane run, and Max Fried’s dominant stretch for the Yankees. Lastly, we touch on the Jose Alvarado PED suspension and what that means for the Phillies' bullpen moving forward. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion! 

In episode 20 of the On Deck podcast, Roberto breaks down the Rockies and Pirates firing their managers, pointing to deeper issues within both franchises. He also dives into Javy Báez’s surprising resurgence in center field and what it means for the Tigers. To wrap it up, Roberto shares his take on the Rafael Devers position controversy and why the Red Sox should consider calling up Roman Anthony.

In Episode 19 of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto is joined by his mom for a heartfelt and entertaining conversation. She reflects on her experience as his first baseball coach and shares whether she ever imagined him playing the sport seriously. As a now-regular baseball viewer, she offers unique takeaways and insights into the game. They wrap up by discussing her thoughts on MLB rule changes and her opinions on the Atlanta Braves since becoming a fan in Georgia. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, host Roberto sits down with Ethan Sanasie-Edwards to discuss his athletic transition from hockey to baseball and whether he buys into the quirky superstitions that often come with the sport. Ethan highlights why Kristian Campbell is a player to watch this season and breaks down the Red Sox’s loaded lineup. The two also compare two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani with emerging star Jac Caglianone, debating whether Caglianone could be the next big two-way player in baseball. Ethan also shares a quick story about his time at Wabash and a memorable moment with a former teammate. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In Episode 17 of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto breaks down that Tyler Soderstrom, Corbin Carroll, Mike Trout, and Cal Raleigh are tied for the league lead in home runs, with Soderstrom and Carroll being the most surprising breakout power hitters so far. Oakland’s youth movement is exciting, with guys like Nick Kurtz, Mason Miller, and Zack Gelof giving A’s fans real hope for the future. Devin Williams is struggling badly as the Yankees' closer, and it might be time to hand the ninth inning over to Luke Weaver. Paul Skenes dominated Yoshinobu Yamamoto in a marquee matchup, and meanwhile, former Cy Young candidate Tristan McKenzie has sadly been DFA’d. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In Episode 16 of The On Deck Podcast, Host Roberto sat down with Melissa Verge, a passionate writer for the Canadian Baseball Network, to explore her journey into the world of women’s baseball. Melissa shared how her early love for the game and experience in softball shaped her path into sports journalism, eventually leading her to spotlight the stories of female athletes. We dove into the growth of women’s baseball, the media’s role in its development, and the common misconceptions that still linger today. Melissa also offered her thoughts on the sport’s future in Canada and teased some exciting upcoming articles she has in the works. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!Follow Melissa On X! https://x.com/melverge5?lang=en

In Episode 15 of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto breaks down the impact of Justin Steele’s UCL injury on the Cubs’ rotation and discusses potential trade targets like Sandy Alcántara. He highlights Spencer Strider’s solid season debut and milestone 500th strikeout, as well as Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s first homer of the season. Chris Bassitt’s dominant outing and the Blue Jays’ record-setting 19 strikeouts against the Braves also take center stage. The episode wraps up with excitement around the 2026 World Baseball Classic and the announcements of Aaron Judge and Francisco Lindor as team captains. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, hosted by Roberto, the discussion opens with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s contract extension and its implications for the long-term outlook of the Toronto Blue Jays. The episode then shifts to an early-season evaluation of several teams—namely the Tigers, Angels, Blue Jays, Giants, and Cubs—who are off to unexpectedly strong starts. Roberto provides insight into which of these teams' performances he believes are sustainable and which may be misleading due to the small sample size. The episode concludes with a look at a remarkable 100-game losing streak, highlighted by the results of the Yeshiva University vs. Bronx Lehman College doubleheader. It’s an insightful and engaging analysis of key storylines shaping the current baseball landscape. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

​In a recent episode of "The On Deck Podcast", the host Roberto discussed several significant developments in Major League Baseball. They covered the 80-game suspension of Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar, who tested positive for Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG). He also addressed contract extensions for players including Brandon Pfaadt, Ketel Marte, Kristian Campbell, Garrett Crochet, and Jackson Merrill, highlighting their potential impacts on their respective teams. Additionally, he explored the rising popularity of torpedo bats, noting their increased use by players, and the ensuing controversy regarding their influence on game dynamics. Tune in for analysis, and bold predictions you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto chats with Seneca volleyball MVP Mikyla Patras about all things baseball, from which position she’d play if she stepped onto the diamond to her favourite player in the sport. We compare the dynamics of baseball and volleyball, breaking down the differences in teamwork, strategy, and individual skills. Mikyla also shares her thoughts on what makes each sport unique and what she enjoys most about the game. Tune in for analysis, and bold predictions you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!Give Mik a follow! https://www.instagram.com/mikylapatras/

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast Roberto recaps MLB Opening Day, highlighting standout performances, historic achievements, and intriguing storylines, such as Tyler O’Neill’s record-breaking sixth straight Opening Day home run and promising debuts from rookies like Cam Smith and Christian Campbell. The host also discusses key team performances, including the Orioles’ explosive offence, the Dodgers’ deep bullpen, and the Pirates’ bullpen struggles, while analyzing individual players like Mackenzie Gore, Paul Skenes, and O’Neill Cruz. Tune in for analysis, and bold predictions you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast episode, Roberto recaps the Tokyo Games, highlighting the electric atmosphere and strong pitching performances from Yamamoto and Imanaga. Roberto also analyzes Roki Sasaki’s MLB debut, noting his lack of fastball control and areas for improvement. Looking ahead, he explores expanding international games to the Dominican Republic, emphasizing the potential for growing baseball’s global reach. He previews intriguing Opening Day matchups, including Clay Holmes' transition to a starter and Paul Skenes vs. Sandy Alcantara. Lastly, he breaks down the Guardians-Rockies trade involving Nolan Jones, questioning how Cleveland will fit him into their roster. Tune in for analysis, and bold predictions you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

Roberto recaps standout performances from the Spring Breakout games, focusing on young prospects making an impact. He highlights Red Sox hitters Christian Campbell, Marcelo Mayer, and Roman Anthony, discussing their MLB potential and positional challenges. Bubba Chandler, Gerangelo Cijntje, Hagen Smith, and Noah Schultz are examined as pitching prospects with promising futures. Special attention is given to Cijntje’s rare ability to pitch with both hands and how it could shape his career. He also praises Reds closer Zach Maxwell’s fiery demeanour and dominant fastball, emphasizing the need for more emotion in baseball. He closes by looking ahead to MLB’s opening day, particularly the debut of Japanese phenom Rōki Sasaki.

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, Roberto breaks down Dave Roberts’ four-year, $32.5 million extension with the Dodgers, making him the highest-paid manager in MLB history. The Yankees suffer a major blow as Gerrit Cole undergoes Tommy John surgery, sidelining him until 2026, while the Mets also take a hit with catcher Francisco Álvarez requiring hand surgery, leaving their depth thin and moving into a more fun discussion analyzing an MLB article ranking the five most underrated players. Tune in for analysis, and bold predictions you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, we break down the Yankees' rotation crisis after Gerrit Cole’s injury, leaving major question marks as Opening Day approaches. Giancarlo Stanton’s ongoing elbow issues now threaten to require surgery, further depleting New York’s lineup depth. Over in Baltimore, Grayson Rodriguez’s injury adds more concerns to an already thin Orioles starting rotation. Meanwhile, the Sacramento A’s get a bright spot as they lock up Lawrence Butler with an extension, signalling hope for the franchise’s future. The Blue Jays and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remain far apart on a massive 14–15 year, $500–600 million contract, raising uncertainty about his long-term stay in Toronto. Lastly, former outfielder Tyler Naquin attempts an MLB comeback with the Guardians—not as a hitter, but as a pitcher, in one of the most unexpected storylines of the spring. Tune in for analysis, and bold predictions you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!4o

In episode six of the On Deck podcast, host Roberto discusses key MLB news, including Roki Sasaki’s impressive first spring training appearance. He also covers José Quintana signing a one-year, $4.3 million deal with the Brewers, strengthening their rotation as they await Brandon Woodruff’s return. The Yankees' pitching situation is in flux following Luis Gil’s injury. Sean Murphy’s cracked rib puts the Braves in a tough spot at catcher, with rookie Drake Baldwin and backup Chadwick Tromp expected to fill in. Tune in for analysis, and bold predictions you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In this episode of the On Deck Podcast, we break down an exciting debate: who has it tougher as a two-way player—Travis Hunter or Shohei Ohtani? We also dive into Paul Skenes’ latest addition to his pitch arsenal—a nasty cutter—and discuss whether he’s already a frontrunner for the Cy Young Award. Special guest AJ Rowe joins the show as we tackle some hard-hitting questions and get his insight on the latest baseball storylines. From two-way dominance to pitching excellence, this episode has it all. Tune in for analysis, bold predictions, and an in-depth conversation you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the discussion!

In this episode of the On Deck Podcast, Roberto breaks down the Houston Astros' puzzling decision to re-engage in Nolan Arenado trade talks despite their recent acquisitions of Cam Smith and Isaac Paredes. Shifting to the Mets, he discusses their growing rotation concerns after Sean Manaea joins Frankie Montas on the IL, leaving the team with major pitching depth issues heading into the season. He also analyzes Rōki Sasaki’s spring debut with the Dodgers, noting his early struggles but emphasizing his high potential once he adjusts to MLB hitters. The Dodgers' overall rotation health remains a concern, with key pitchers like Tyler Glasnow and Shohei Ohtani dealing with workload limitations. 

On this episode of The On Deck Podcast, we dive into the latest MLB drama and major storylines. We kick things off with the ongoing saga between Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Blue Jays, breaking down why an extension hasn’t happened yet and what it means for the team’s future. Next, we unpack the debate between Juan Soto and Aaron Judge, analyzing Soto's move to the Met's lineup and who truly holds the better future. We also discuss MLB’s introduction of the Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) system in spring training games, with Roberto sharing his opinions on how it could change the game. Plus, we cover Geraldo Perdomo’s contract extension with the Diamondbacks and what it signals for Arizona’s infield plans. Tune in for all the latest insights, hot takes, and plenty of baseball talk!

In this episode of The On Deck Podcast, host Roberto Pagliero breaks down Alex Bregman’s surprising three-year, $120 million deal with the Red Sox, analyzing its impact on the team and prospects like Christian Campbell. He also discusses Giancarlo Stanton’s elbow injury, questioning whether he’ll be ready for Opening Day and how the Yankees might adjust their lineup in his absence. The conversation shifts to Mike Trout’s long-overdue move to right field, which could help him stay healthier and extend his career. Roberto also reacts to breaking news about Mets pitcher Frankie Montas suffering a lat strain, which could be a significant blow to their rotation. Throughout the episode, he shares his takes on team moves, player performances, and league developments while encouraging listener engagement. He wraps up by inviting fans to join the conversation, share their thoughts, and help grow the podcast community.

Welcome to the first episode of The On Deck Podcast, hosted by Roberto Pagliero. In this introductory episode, Roberto shares his background as a baseball player, detailing his journey from D’Youville College to Seneca College. He explains his passion for following the sport beyond the field, from tracking free-agent signings and trade rumours to analyzing advanced stats. The podcast will cover key MLB storylines, team outlooks, and player performances while also featuring guest interviews with baseball insiders. Listeners are encouraged to engage by sharing their thoughts and topic suggestions via social media (@theondeckpodcast). Tune in for insightful discussions and join the conversation as the baseball season unfolds!