The Dugout Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Johnston and Al Sharr from CAO share insights on shoulder injuries in youth baseball and softball players, covering anatomy, early warning signs, overuse risks and prevention strategies. Perfect for parents, coaches and young athletes aiming to stay healthy and perform at their best.

What does it truly mean to play "The Ripken Way"? Live from Cal Senior’s Yard in Aberdeen, The Dugout Crew sits down with All Ripken Operations Coordinator Dawson Dickman to break down what makes the All Ripken Games a premier platform in youth sports. Dawson explains how this individual-player circuit pushes athletes out of their comfort zones by placing them on teams with new peers and coaches f...

Youth baseball used to be won and lost between the white lines, but today it is increasingly litigated on Facebook, manipulated in group chats and engineered in political boardrooms. In this episode, The Dugout crew pulls back the curtain on the epidemic of adult politics in youth sports—examining how adult egos, parental FOMO, social media and the US vs THEM mentality override player development....

Ever wondered what truly builds resilience in young athletes? It's not just about mental toughness on game day. Dive into Tim Christ’s inspiring story of Boerne, Texas, and their historic Little League World Series run. Discover how community support, parental guidance, and learning from mistakes shape character and dedication. Join us as we explore the journey of crafting a collective vision for...

In episode 7 of The Dugout Podcast, the crew examines marketing hype surrounding 'elite' youth sports teams, the importance of genuine player development, and the pitfalls of social media comparison. We share insights on fostering resilience, growth and love for the game beyond plastic rings and shiny rings.

"Are we willing to trade a championship trophy in June for a surgery in July?" In this high-stakes episode, the Dugout Crew is joined by Gil Kania and Al Sharr from the Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics (CAO) to break down the "Arm Care Blueprint." This isn't just about pitch counts—it’s a deep dive into the science of the overhead athlete and the alarming rise of Tommy John surgeries in players a...

"If you're out there winning, you are NOT allowed to wash your clothes. Period." ⚾️🤢 Welcome to episode 5 of The Dugout Podcast, where we’re getting weird. We’re talking about the superstitions that define baseball culture—from unwashed lucky socks to the "Magic Bucket" that saved a game at Ripken. RJ shares the (disgusting) truth about his All-Star boxers, Mikey breaks down the "Twos" jinx, and...

Step into "The Recovery Room" with our latest episode! Most youth sports injuries aren't just bad luck—they’re preventable. In Episode 4 of The Dugout, the crew is joined by Al Sharr and Gil Kania from the Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics to unlock the secrets to keeping our young athletes injury-free. Neglecting recovery can sideline an athlete for a season—or permanently—so we’re breaking down...

Is "Daddy Ball" killing youth sports, or the only thing keeping it alive? This week, the crew gets raw about the most controversial label in the dugout. We’re breaking down the difference between volunteers and "gatekeepers," the research on why parents over-elevate their own kids, and the heavy pressure placed on the "coach's son." From the "Shortstop Syndrome" to the "Car Ride Home," we’re shari...

This episode tracks the evolution of SOMD travel ball from its "elite" origins to the current saturated market. We pull back the curtain on the "pedestal problem" and the impact of money and social media, while exploring why "Rec-Flight" is hurting the game. From defining true "elite" status to the critical need for raising the coaching floor, we discuss how to balance nutrition, physical prep, an...

In the inaugural episode of The Dugout Podcast, RJ, Jimmy, Ryan and Mikey discuss the challenges and opportunities within youth baseball in St. Mary's County. They explore the existing gaps between different leagues, the stigma surrounding travel baseball, and the importance of fostering a supportive community for young athletes. The conversation emphasizes the need for unity among coaches, parent...