Ep 51 | Kicking Off 2026: A New Year in Minnesota Baseball
Ducks On The Pond
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...
info_outline
Ep 50 | Inside Division III Baseball with St. John’s Head Coach Scott Lieser
Ducks On The Pond
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.
info_outline
Ep 49 | Rosemount's Jacob Michel
Ducks On The Pond
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.
info_outline
Ep 48 | University of Minnesota Hitting Coach & Recruiting Coordinator Connor Gandossy
Ducks On The Pond
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.
info_outline
Ep 47 | Prep Baseball Minnesota Player of the Year Owen Marsolek
Ducks On The Pond
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...
info_outline
Ep 46 | Harrisburg's Kade Wede, RHP, 2027
Ducks On The Pond
In this episode, we dive into the world of high school baseball with 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...
info_outline
Ep 45 | Recruiting, Development & The St. Thomas Way With Coach Neal Kunik
Ducks On The Pond
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...
info_outline
Ep 44 | How DCTC Is Trying To Change The JUCO Landscape with Head Coach Blaine Barthel
Ducks On The Pond
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...
info_outline
Ep 43 | Inside DIII Baseball: Competing, Recruiting, and Building a Winning Program with St. Scholastica's Seth Betts
Ducks On The Pond
In this episode, we dive deep into Division III college baseball, focusing on the MIAC conference and its competitive structure. From the challenges of scheduling 40 games in a season to navigating a playoff system with limited spots, we break down what it takes to succeed at this level. The conversation also explores how recruiting has evolved, with technology and platforms like Prep Baseball enabling national talent searches. It highlights the rising skill level in Division III baseball due to changes across the collegiate landscape. We get an inside look at St. Scholastica's recruiting...
info_outline
Ep 42 | Inside Augustana's Winning Formula with Head Coach Tim Huber
Ducks On The Pond
In this episode of Ducks On The Pond, Andy Judkins and Parker Hageman are joined by Augustana University's head coach Tim Huber. Our discussion dives into the challenges and opportunities of collegiate baseball recruiting, with a focus on Augustana University's unique approach to player development. The conversation highlights the importance of patience, as overlooked players often transform into standouts over time. Topics include the impact of the transfer portal, the growing talent pool in South Dakota, and the dynamics of balancing local recruitment with national competition....
info_outlineRosemount'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.