Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford

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Latest Episodes:

Before You Talk to Your Son's Coach, Watch This Aug 05, 2026

Most parents judge a coach by the small part of the process they can see: the lineup, playing time, positions, and in-game decisions.

But that is rarely the whole story.

Before you talk to your son's coach, you need to understand what the coach may be evaluating behind the scenes—and how the way you start that conversation can determine whether you receive useful information or immediately create defensiveness.

In this episode, MLB agent Matt Hannaford explains how to approach coaches with better questions, greater context, and a clearer understanding of whether a program genuinely knows and develops your son.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

How do coaches actually evaluate players for playing time, where they fit in the lineup, what positions they'll play, how they create development plans, and how to evaluate future opportunities?

Matt answers the questions baseball parents ask most by combining feedback from coaches he respects with lessons from more than 25 years representing professional players and communicating with managers, general managers, team executives, and development staffs.

You'll learn:

• Why parents often judge the entire process through the small part they can see.

• Why you should not assign a motive before understanding the decision.

• The difference between approaching a coach as an ally and approaching him as an adversary.

• The exact question to ask instead of, "Why aren't you playing my son?"

• How to separate facts from assumptions before contacting a coach.

• When your son should speak to the coach before you do.

• What a real player-development plan should include.

• Why being moved from a position is not automatically a negative evaluation.

• How to tell the difference between a difficult answer and a dishonest answer.

• The warning signs that a program may not truly know, develop, or advocate for your son.

The goal of the conversation is not to force the coach to agree with you. The goal is to understand the situation well enough to make a good decision.

EPISODE SUMMARY

This episode addresses one of the most emotional and misunderstood parts of travel baseball: communicating with your son's coach.

Matt begins by explaining the parent's visible experience. Parents see lineups, positions, playing time, tournament schedules, in-game decisions, and how frequently the coach communicates.

Because those are the most visible parts of the experience, it is easy to assume they represent everything the coach is doing.

They do not.

Depending on the level and organization, a coach may also be evaluating individual development, physical readiness, confidence, defensive combinations, pitching availability, practice performance, reliability, roster construction, college fit, recruiting communication, organizational philosophy, and the long-term role of every player.

Understanding that workload does not mean surrendering your standards. It means communicating with better context.

Greg from Overland Park, Kansas, asks how coaches evaluate a player for playing time when the family only sees the lineup. Matt shares the perspective of a coach who describes regular, in-depth conversations about each player's skill set, developmental needs, future role, and potential college fit.

That leads to one of the episode's central lessons:

Come to the coach as an ally, not an adversary.

Instead of beginning with: "Why aren't you playing my son?"

Try: "Coach, I'd like to better understand how you currently evaluate my son and what he needs to improve to earn more opportunity."

The first question puts the coach on defense. The second creates an opportunity to receive information the family can actually use.

Matt connects this to his own work representing Major League players. Before he contacts a manager about a client's role or playing time, the player generally needs to take ownership and have the conversation himself. The same principle applies as young players mature.

Parents should not automatically solve every communication problem for their son. One of the most valuable things a baseball program can teach a player is how to advocate for himself respectfully.

Alicia from Round Rock, Texas, asks what a strong coaching staff should be doing for a 15-year-old player when there is no game on the schedule.

Matt explains that development should be more than a word used during the recruiting process by that coach. A quality organization should be able to explain:

• The player's current strengths and weaknesses.

• What the staff is helping him improve.

• What he should prioritize over the next 30 to 60 days.

• How often his development is reviewed.

• What position or role may fit him long term.

• What level of college baseball appears realistic.

• How the program supports players through recruiting.

If development is promised but cannot be demonstrated, the family should ask better questions and evaluate the answers carefully.

Tony from Dublin, Ohio, asks about his son being moved away from shortstop.

Matt challenges parents not to interpret every decision as personal. A position change may be based on defensive needs, roster construction, matchups, another player's current readiness, or a desire to develop greater versatility.

The decision may be disappointing without being disrespectful.

Do not assign a motive before you understand the decision.

Matt closes with a framework for evaluating the coach's response and the program itself.

Warning signs include:

• The coach cannot explain how the player is evaluated.

• Feedback remains consistently vague.

• Expectations change without explanation.

• Development is discussed but not demonstrated.

• Recruiting claims cannot be verified.

• The program discourages reasonable questions.

• Communication becomes disrespectful or manipulative.

• The coach does not appear to know the player's strengths, weaknesses, or goals.

Parents must also distinguish between a bad coach and an answer they simply do not like.

A good coach may honestly say that a player is not ready, needs to become stronger, has been inconsistent, is not currently projecting at the level the family expects, or may be a better fit at another position.

Do not confuse an answer that hurts with an answer that is dishonest.

Better communication begins with better understanding. Learn how the coach thinks. Ask questions that create clarity. Give your son increasing ownership. Then evaluate whether the coach's answers and actions demonstrate that the program genuinely knows him, develops him, and has a thoughtful plan for where he is going.

Matt closes with a checklist a coach sent him: the specific warning signs of a bad coach, from feedback that stays consistently vague to recruiting claims that can't be verified to a coach who never asks what the player's goals are.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Why parents ask about coaches
1:19 — Coaches on the podcast so far
2:51 — The coach as the tool teacher
4:39 — Greg's playing-time question
12:44 — Ally not adversary
13:25 — How Matt talks to managers
20:07 — Alicia's development question
28:03 — Tony's shortstop question
34:11 — Warning signs of a bad coach

If this helped you, share it with another family who needs it before their next tournament. Have a question you want answered on a future episode? Email it in using the address below.

LINKS & RESOURCES

Email your questions: matt@mostvaluableagent.com
Last week's episode on travel baseball as a tool: https://youtu.be/QhiJnMSl2f8
Andy Burris / Five Star episode: https://youtu.be/9OnyuTDukH4

#CollegeRecruiting #TravelBaseball #YouthSports #BaseballParents #MVAPodcast

Travel Baseball Is a Tool, But Only If You Know How to Use It Jul 29, 2026

A sports agent of 25 years explains why the travel baseball cost that scares you might be the wrong thing to worry about. If your son is good enough, the industry is built to find him.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Matt Hannaford answers three real questions from parents about the money, time, and doubt that come with travel baseball. The core idea running through every answer: travel baseball is a tool, and a tool only works when you know why you are using it and how to use it.

You will learn how to evaluate events properly so that you can make better decisions on whether to attend or not, how to scale a demanding schedule back instead of quitting entirely, and how to check whether your own attitude is coloring your son's experience. Matt also shares how to turn parent expectations into agreements your son actually commits to, and the one question to ask a coach before you agree to play for them.

Matt reframes the fear head-on. A son's ability is the biggest factor in whether he gets drafted or recruited, not whether he attended the right showcase. Going to an event can still be a win for reasons that have nothing to do with exposure, like testing skills against better competition or getting a young player's feet wet before the stakes are real.

He layers in a surgery analogy from his own client work: the right doctor accounts for only a third of the outcome, the player's work another third, the rehab plan the rest. Travel baseball works the same way, and the family has to swing the hammer. He closes on how to validate a concern about a coach, ask meaningful questions about the plan, talk to multiple families rather than one, and lead with the question most coaches have never been asked.

By the end you will have a clearer way to decide which events your son should attend, why, and how to judge afterward whether the money and weekends paid off.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Travel baseball is a tool, not the problem
5:37 — Expensive vs worth it: Danielle's question
12:52 — Why big leaguers' families saw it as investment
20:14 — When demanding means scale back, not quit
27:42 — The surgery analogy: who swings the hammer
35:34 — Is your attitude coloring his experience
41:46 — Turning expectations into agreements
43:10 — How to vet a coach before you commit

CALL TO ACTION

If this helped, share it with a family weighing the same decision. Have a question you want answered on a future episode? Send it in and it might lead the next Q&A.

Email your question: matt@mostvaluableagent.com

#TravelBaseball, #YouthSports, #BaseballRecruiting, #BaseballParents, #MVAPodcast

What You Say After the Game Is Hurting Your Son Jul 15, 2026

Who is actually developing your son—and are the adults around him helping or hurting?

In this episode, veteran MLB agent Matt Hannaford, who has more than 25 years of experience in the baseball business, answers three real questions from baseball parents:

Should you hold your son back a grade to give him a physical advantage?

Can a coach over-coach a player and do more harm than good?

And does playing baseball at a high level automatically mean someone knows how to teach it?

These may sound like three separate issues, but Matt explains why they all come back to the same thing: the people you allow to influence your son's development.

First, Giselle from Tampa asks about reclassifying. Matt explains why fewer than 1% of players should even consider it—and why holding a player back simply to make him bigger or stronger than his competition can eventually work against him. Major League organizations value players who perform at younger ages. Every year matters.

Then Tim from Dallas asks whether a coach can over-coach a player into burnout. The answer is yes. Matt breaks down the difference between coaching and constantly changing a kid, how families should evaluate a coach before making a commitment, and why meaningful mechanical adjustments take time. They do not happen during one cage session.

Finally, Dave from Topeka asks whether playing at a high level means someone can coach at a high level. It doesn't. Playing and teaching are two different skills. A résumé may get your attention, but it does not tell you whether that person can understand, communicate with, and develop your son.

The best coaches—and the best parents—share one essential trait: empathy.

And parents, there is one part of this process you control completely: what happens after the game.

That car ride home may feel like a small moment, but your reaction is teaching your son something. Make sure you are not teaching him that your approval—or your love—is tied to how he performed.

CHAPTERS

0:00 — Who is actually developing your kid?
0:49 — Giselle's question: Should you hold your son back?
3:00 — Why reclassifying for a physical advantage can backfire
6:00 — The age and value reality of professional baseball
10:05 — Tim's question: Can a coach do more harm than good?
16:00 — How to evaluate a coach before committing
18:46 — Dave's question: Does playing at a high level mean someone can teach?
29:00 — The trait every great coach needs: empathy
31:51 — What the car ride home is really teaching your son

Have a specific question about your son's path? Email Matt directly at matt@mostvaluableagent.com.

#MVAPodcast #baseball #travelball #baseballparents #youthsports

MLB Wants to End the High School Draft. What It Means for Your Son Jul 08, 2026

MLB just proposed ending the high school draft, and before you panic, you should understand what is being negotiated.

MLB agent Matt Hannaford breaks down the proposal to eliminate high school draft eligibility, cut the draft from 20 to 12 rounds, and slash signing bonuses, and he explains why he reads it as a negotiating tactic rather than a done deal. If you are a baseball parent or player, here is what it would mean for your development path, your leverage, and your money.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

What MLB actually proposed, and which parts are most and least likely to happen
Why an MLB agent reads this as a negotiation tactic rather than a final outcome
How ending the high school draft would quietly remove player leverage
The second-order effect: more reclassifying, more college players drafted, less money for everyone
What you should and shouldn't change about your plan right now

On June 18, Baseball America reported that MLB proposed eliminating high school draftee eligibility as part of its collective bargaining negotiations with the Players Association. The same framework would cut the draft from 20 to 12 rounds, reduce bonuses by more than 50%, install hard slot bonuses, and allow more trading of draft picks. Matt Hannaford has direct relationships inside those negotiations, so he walks through the proposal and then explains how these negotiations move behind the scenes. His read is that most of what gets reported through the media never makes the final agreement. MLB's real goal, he argues, is fewer rounds, less money paid to players, and more control. He then walks through the worst case: if high school eligibility went away, the best players would reclassify and reach college sooner, squeezing the traditional college player while colleges gain leverage and spend less. For parents, his advice is to keep moving forward as if nothing is changing, because context matters more than any headline.

Have a question about your son's path? Email Matt directly at matt@mostvaluableagent.com.

More from the show:

MLB Draft Prep Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5H4dTL0Gs4tiHHxBq8it6LzYLvFB961X

Matt's Guide to Travel Baseball for Parents Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5H4dTL0Gs4vlKfChWXK7jPepLxS2PYRr

#MVAPodcast #baseball #MLBDraft #travelball #baseballparents

Travel Baseball Can Cost You More Than Money Jul 01, 2026

Travel baseball can cost you tens of thousands of dollars, and the real bill is bigger than the checks you are writing. Here is what you are actually paying for.

MLB agent Matt Hannaford adds up the real cost of travel baseball so you can stop overpaying and start spending on what actually develops your son. Subscribe for the insider playbook on recruiting, the transfer portal, and the MLB Draft.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

The full cost of travel baseball that most families never add up
Why spending more does not mean your son is developing more
When a roster spot you are paying for is no longer worth it
The cost that has nothing to do with money: your relationship with your son
How to capture the benefit of travel baseball at the lowest possible cost

Matt Hannaford answers three real questions from travel baseball parents, and every one of them comes back to cost. First, the obvious bill: entry fees, program dues, flights, rental cars, hotels, and food. Matt is direct that travel baseball is a completely different animal than Little League, and that the financial buy-in is real before you talk about anything else.

Then comes the cost most families never see coming. Parents spend all of this money chasing exposure early, and end up in the hole 20, 40, sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars, only to reach 16 and wonder why their son still is not being recruited. Matt explains the order that protects your wallet: development first, then competition, then exposure, because August 1 of junior year is the first time a Division I program can even contact you. You can go to almost no events, focus on development, and your son is still not behind. He points to Steph Curry, who developed his game and went to Davidson, and Evan Longoria, who went from junior college to Long Beach State to the third overall pick.

When Jim from Naperville asks whether he is just paying $3,000 to develop the starters, Matt gives you the two questions to ask a coach before you write the check, and the respectful meeting to have when the program stops adding value. And the deepest cost is not money at all. When Tom from Louisville asks whether travel ball is development or status, Matt gets honest about the ranking system and the value of failure, citing the start to Austin Riley's career. Former big leaguer Danny Espinosa shares what a real win looks like: your son saying, it's okay, I love you. Related topics include college recruiting, scholarships, the transfer portal, NIL, and rec ball versus travel ball.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 - The Real Cost of Travel Baseball

1:40 - The Costs Nobody Adds Up

4:41 - The Benefit at the Lowest Cost

16:25 - Spending Big and Still Not Recruited

22:06 - Paying $3,000 to Sit the Bench

28:47 - The Cost That Isn't Money

31:26 - Why Rankings Cost You Focus

ABOUT THE MVA PODCAST

Matt Hannaford is an MLB agent who gives you the insider playbook on college recruiting, the transfer portal, and MLB Draft decisions. The Most Valuable Agent Podcast helps parents and players navigate the system with confidence.

Have a question for a future episode? Email matt@mostvaluableagent.com

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

MVA Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#MVAPodcast #TravelBaseball #CollegeBaseball #MLBDraft #YouthSports

Is a Travel Team Really Necessary? Jun 24, 2026

You think the $45,000 travel team is buying your kid a shot at the next level. A former pro hockey player explains why that promise is youth sports' biggest lie.

Every youth-sports parent gets sold the same promise: pay for the elite travel team, the tournament, the showcase, the year-round travel — and your kid will get seen, get recruited, get to the next level. In this conversation, a former NHL player who now runs a development hockey program takes that promise apart from the inside. He came up as one of the only kids from inner-city Philadelphia ever drafted to the NHL, so he is not guessing about what actually moves a player forward. He's seen it with his own eyes.

His message: being recruitable is not the same as being seen. You can go to every event, be at every showcase or every tournament and still go nowhere, because what evaluators are actually buying is what your kid not only does when people are watching but what they do when nobody is watching — the extra reps after practice, the attitude, their ability to grind and to be a self-starter. He calls that the "it factor," and you cannot buy it with an expensive travel program. He explains why being a big fish in a small pond may actually develop your kid faster than sitting on the bench for a "number one" travel team, and how the state that develops the most hockey players in the country does it for far less money, through local high school programs, not pay-to-play clubs.

Matt connects every point to baseball and to the trap parents fall into — dipping into retirement money for a travel-ball promise that was never real — and reframes your actual job as a youth sports parent: not the snowplow clearing the road, but the gardener feeding the conditions and letting the kid grow. In the back half, the guest takes you inside the NHL salary cap from a player's seat — escrow, what the cap is really built to protect, and whether it creates competitive balance at all — and Matt stress-tests the parity myth against real payroll-vs-results examples from MLB.

If you are spending real money chasing exposure for your kid, watch the first twenty minutes before you write the next check.

Chapters

0:00 — The promise youth sports sells you

2:16 — From inner-city Philadelphia to the NHL

13:52 — The $45,000-a-year trap

15:19 — The "it factor": what your kid does when nobody's watching

18:33 — Exposure vs. development — you've got it backwards

20:24 — Being recruitable is not the same as being seen

24:11 — Why Minnesota develops more players for a couple thousand dollars

29:30 — Your real job as a parent: the gardener, not the snowplow

44:48 — Inside the NHL salary cap — escrow and what it really protects

52:31 — Does a salary cap actually create parity?

#youthsports #travelsports #sportsparenting #athletedevelopment #MVAPodcast

The Hidden Negotiation Behind Your MLB Signing Bonus Jun 17, 2026

If you are a baseball parent waiting on the MLB Draft, the wait is the hard part — and rushing it is the mistake. MLB agent Matt Hannaford breaks down what actually happens in the months and weeks before draft day, so you know what to do when a team starts testing your number.

Most families think a scout in the stands means their player is on the radar. Matt explains why that depends entirely on which scout is watching. There is a chain of command behind every pick: the area scout who is boots on the ground gathering information, the regional cross-checker who ranks your player against an entire region, the national cross-checker who covers the whole country, and finally the scouting director and sometimes the general manager. If the only scouts ever watching your son are area scouts, you are not getting drafted in the first three rounds — no matter how the spring season goes.

You will also learn why you do not have to attend every pre-draft workout you are invited to. Matt walks through the call he had with a scouting director who told him, honestly, to send his player to a different workout — proof that an invitation is not the same as real interest. He explains when a private workout is worth the flight and the money, why a combine invitation usually beats stacking individual workouts (every team is there), and how getting invited to a workout rarely raises your value by the hundreds of thousands of dollars families imagine it will.

Then Matt gets into the part every family is really waiting for: signability and the signing bonus. He lays out the three ways players set their number, how the week-before-draft "big board" puts your player in play at specific picks, and how teams get creative with slot money — including the strategy used by clubs like the Milwaukee Brewers, who underpay early picks in the top 10 rounds to hand a player a much larger bonus in the 11th. He uses Austin Riley, who went to several workouts as a high school senior and still went in the first round, to show that one rough workout does not end your career.

The center of the episode is leverage. Matt tells the story of a player last year who held firm on his number while a scouting director called three separate times — first trying to knock off hundreds of thousands of dollars, then 150,000 less, then 50,000 less — while the area scout called the player directly to test whether the number was real. The player got his number. Matt explains why that only ever works when the player and the family are genuinely comfortable walking away and attending college, and why the draft is not the finish line. It is the beginning. This conversation connects directly to college recruiting, the transfer portal, travel ball, and NIL decisions every baseball family is navigating right now.

ABOUT THE MVA PODCAST

LINKS & RESOURCES

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

MVA Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#MVAPodcast #MLBDraft #CollegeBaseball #SigningBonus #BaseballRecruiting

Danny Espinosa: How a big leaguer would develop your kid Jun 10, 2026

A former MLB player who coaches travel baseball says winning tournaments is quietly stunting your kid. Subscribe for the insider playbook.

Most travel baseball parents measure a weekend by the scoreboard. Danny Espinosa measures it differently. A former MLB infielder, Long Beach State Dirt Bag, and owner-coach of the OC Crush, Danny sat down with MLB agent Matt Hannaford to explain why a team can win every tournament and develop almost no one. The conversation opens with something Danny witnessed at a 9U event: coaches stealing signs and relaying pitches to nine-year-olds. When he called it out, a coach told him that he should get on board because this is the new age of travel ball. The point that follows is the one you need. Relaying signs may win a game, but it teaches your kid nothing about how to develop properly.

From there, Danny and Matt separate two words parents constantly confuse: advanced and developed. The biggest, strongest 10-year-old usually succeeds early. That is not the same as the player who learns the game properly and keeps growing at 16, 17 and 18. Danny explains why he refuses to cut kids off his own roster, why he would rather a young player build strength and athleticism than obsessing over mechanical adjustments he is not physically ready to repeat, and why Freddy Freeman, whose son plays on Danny's team, preaches the importance of not over-coaching. If you have ever wondered whether your kid needs the best private hitting coach in the area, this section answers it.

The most expensive mistake in youth baseball, according to this conversation, is chasing exposure. Matt makes the insider case directly: exposure does not matter until your child's junior year of high school, around 16 or 17. Before that, Danny asks the question that often stops parents in their tracks. Exposure to what? Your local high school will take the best players, regardless of how many showcases you paid for. The episode reframes the obsession on parents to spend. Put development first, and exposure becomes a byproduct of doing everything else well.

Matt and Danny also work through the questions parents need to ask. Should your kid specialize in baseball or play multiple sports, and why did Bo Jackson's answer surprise a guy who believed the opposite? How many games is too many across across a season? Why are holdbacks a problem for some, especially when it's done too early and the result is a 13-year-old gets hit a line drive at 50 feet, and how might the NCAA five-and-five rule correct it? Adjacent topics include college recruiting, the transfer portal, scholarships, NIL, the MLB Draft and showcases.

It ends where it should. Danny explains why he never talks to his sons in the car after a game, and what his own parents told him that he now repeats to his kids: whether you play one more day, I will always love you regardless of the outcome. If you are deciding how much to invest in your child's baseball, this conversation will change your perspective.

About

Matt Hannaford is an MLB agent who gives you the insider playbook on college recruiting, the transfer portal and MLB Draft decisions. The Most Valuable Agent Podcast helps parents and players navigate the system with confidence.

Links

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

MVA Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#MVAPodcast #TravelBaseball #YouthBaseballDevelopment #CollegeBaseball #MLBDraft

How You Act in the Stands Affects Your Son's Draft Stock (An MLB Agent Explains) Jun 03, 2026

You think MLB scouts are evaluating your son. They are. But they are evaluating you just as carefully — and what they see in you can move your son's draft stock up or down by hundreds of thousands of dollars.

MLB agent Matt Hannaford sits down with Mike Liguori to break down what scouts actually watch for when they evaluate a draft prospect, why the in-home visit matters as much as the at-bat, and the effect of a single team's draft-day board pivot and how it directly impacts a family.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Why scouts spend just as much time evaluating your family as they do your son's swing
What in-home visits and Zoom calls reveal that game film cannot
How one of Matt's clients became a first-round pick because of who his family was, not just how he played
Why the draft board pivots after pick 1 — and how it can impact whether you sign or not
How to prepare your son for the draft so a multi-million dollar target doesn't become a $100,000 disappointment
How travel ball volume, social media pressure, and the "dad wound" all show up in scout reports

In this episode, Matt Hannaford explains why MLB area scouts, cross-checkers, scouting directors, and general managers spend so much time on in-home visits. The scout is not just confirming athletic ability — that work is mostly done by draft day. The in-home visit is where the organization grades how the family functions: does the dad let the kid talk, have the mom and dad raised their son well, does the player answer a question well. Every interaction gets logged, and what gets evaluated both with the players performance and a family dynamic shapes how much money the organization could be willing to invest.

Matt walks through a real example: a recent first-round pick whose draft stock was lifted specifically because of family makeup. As Matt puts it, every team in the room said the same thing — if the kid had not been who he is off the field, he would not have gone in the first round. That is what scouts mean when they say "makeup matters." There is on-the-field makeup (do you run hard, do you play the right way) and off-the-field makeup (who are you as a person, how do you communicate, how do you handle failure, what does your home environment say about who that organization thinks you can become). All get scored.

The episode also walks through the draft-day mechanics most families never see. Only one team — the team picking first overall — actually knows what they are doing in advance. Everyone else builds their board live as the picks come in. Matt tells the story of a client years ago who had a clear plan: a specific team picking fourth had told the family they should get to their target number. Then the player that team didn't expect to still be available at pick four was, and it changed everything. Their ideal player fell to them at four. They overpaid to get him. And every pick after that caused them to save money on. The board got reshaped in real time and ended up making compromise calls in the 15th round: a million became 500,000, then 300,000, then 100,000.

The lesson for you, the parent, is preparation. The families who get the best outcomes are not the ones who buy into the hype that the draft will go exactly as planned. They need to have a backup plan — a strong college commitment to a school the player is excited to attend. If your son ends up on a college campus, they need to recognize that for being a positive. And if a team ends up offering life-changing money then that's a decision they should be prepared to make in a moment. Either outcome needs to be analyzed and vetted well before the draft but both must be seen as a good outcome or you're setting yourself up for disappointment. Not because that's a guarantee but because it's how the draft functions. That scenario is real and being prepared for it will give you the best chance for success no matter how it goes.

Matt also addresses the bigger pattern under all of this: the wounds from parents that are created in travel ball that last well into adulthood. Big league players in their 20s and 30s still carry the imprint of how their parents pushed them at 10, 11, 12. Some of them used that pressure to fuel their careers. Many of them also lost the ability to communicate with the parent because of it. The point of this episode is not to make you feel like you are failing — it is to invite you to ask whether what you are doing today is going to help your son for the next ten to twenty years, not just the next ten to twenty games.

Listen all the way through for Matt's breakdown of the major showcases and tournaments that actually get pro scouts and college recruiting coordinators in attendance — Perfect Game, the WWBA in Atlanta, the PG National Showcase, the Area Code Games, and East Coast Pro, Team USA — and the difference between going to an event to be seen versus going to an event to compete.

Subscribe for new episodes every Wednesday at 6 AM ET. Send your questions in the comments — Matt reads them.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is an MLB agent with over 25 years of experience guiding families through college recruiting, the transfer portal, and the MLB Draft. This is where you get the insider playbook — direct from the agent room — so you can make decisions with confidence instead of pressure.

LINKS & RESOURCES

Alignd Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#CollegeBaseball #MLBDraft #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #YouthBaseball

The Car Ride Home Is Killing Your Son's Game (An MLB Agent Explains) May 27, 2026

What you say to your son on the car ride home after a bad game can either build him up or push him out of the sport. MLB agent Matt Hannaford gives you the framework to get it right.

In this solo Q&A episode, Matt answers three of the most-asked questions from parents and players: If you have a son who's a draft prospect, already committed to a college, and is heading into his senior year in High School, what events over the summer he should attend, what to actually say to your son after a bad game, and how to help build mental toughness in a 9-year-old who tends to melt down.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ How the 2026 MLB Draft timeline changes which summer events get heavily scouted (and which ones don't)

✓ Why the PG National Showcase is a prerequisite — but only if your son wants the PG All American invite

✓ The exact events that put your son in front of every decision-maker: East Coast Pro in Birmingham, Area Codes in Long Beach, the All American Game in Philadelphia

✓ The one question to ask yourself before you say anything to your son in the car

✓ Why questions outperform statements every time, and the gravity analogy that explains it

✓ How to handle dugout meltdowns at age 9 without coddling or breaking your kid

✓ The expectations and agreements conversation most baseball parents never have

Matt Hannaford is a 26-year MLB agent who walks you through the summer draft event strategy first. He breaks down the WWBA in Atlanta, why the 2026 draft's mid-July timing affects which scouts show up, the PG National Showcase as the gateway to the PG All American Game, the East Coast Pro in Birmingham as arguably the most important event of the summer, the Area Codes in Long Beach as its West Coast counterpart, and the Worldwide Bat in Jupiter as the last-chance redemption event. He references conversations on this podcast with Mike Wagner (National Scouting Director, Yankees), Alex McClure (West Coast Crosschecker, Tigers), and Chris Gross (Scouting Director, Mets) for the in-home visit context.

The middle of the episode is the heaviest one. Matt walks you through the car ride home — what scouts and college coaches are evaluating, what to ask yourself before you open your mouth, and why most parents are having the wrong conversation. The gravity analogy lands here: when you push, your son pushes back. The fix is questions, not statements. How does that feel? What about it is frustrating? Is now the right time, or should we talk later? Matt also reframes failure as a relationship problem — your son isn't failing, he's a human being who plays baseball, and the identity work is what separates the kids who keep playing from the ones who quit.

The final question covers a 9-year-old having meltdowns in the dugout. Matt's answer is direct: at nine, the responsibility falls on the parent, and the fix is the expectations and agreements framework. Most parents have unspoken expectations and then get frustrated when the kid doesn't meet them. The fix is to articulate what mental toughness looks like at this age, get the agreement, and then hold the line. Work hard. Respect the game. No helmet throws. No disrespect. That's the deal — and if you can't commit, the family isn't going to keep committing time, money, and missed vacations to it.

ABOUT THE MVA PODCAST

CONNECT WITH MATT

Alignd Sports Agency: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#CollegeBaseball #MLBDraft #BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #TravelBaseball

Why Your Son Doesn't Want to Practice Anymore (An MLB Agent's Honest Answer) May 20, 2026

You think you know what's wrong with your son's swing — but an MLB agent says you're solving the wrong problem.

MLB agent Matt Hannaford answers three questions baseball parents keep sending in: how to tell if your son is losing his love for the game, whether you should coach his swing at home, and how to handle the toxic parents at the travel ball field.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ The 'carry the torch' mistake that pushes sons out of baseball

✓ Why the mechanical fix you've identified is probably wrong

✓ The conversation that reveals whether your son actually wants this

✓ What MLB scouts notice about parents at 10U travel tournaments

✓ The field self-test most baseball dads have never asked themselves

In this solo Q&A, Matt Hannaford pulls from 26 years as an MLB agent to answer the questions you keep sending in about navigating travel baseball, college recruiting, and youth development. The episode opens with a parent whose son no longer asks to go to the batting cages — a moment most baseball parents will recognize. Matt walks through the 'vision conversation' framework: what to ask your son before assuming you know what's going on, and why parents who try to 'carry the torch' for their kids rarely get the outcome they're hoping for.

The second question comes from a dad whose son's hands are dropping after a couple of home runs. Matt's counter-intuitive answer: don't be so sure you know the mechanical fix. At the highest level, the fix is rarely mechanical — it's usually pitch selection or what the hitter is thinking before the pitch. Matt explains how to deliver swing information so your son actually receives it, and why a hitting coach or facility should usually have the conversation before you do.

The third question is about a 'toxic' travel ball dad telling everyone his 10-year-old son is going Division I. Matt's advice: don't engage. He walks through the three scenarios that always solve themselves, and the field self-test every baseball parent should run on themselves. The same self-awareness theme runs through all three questions, and the same insider perspective on what scouts, college coaches, and MLB organizations actually look for in players and the families around them. Adjacent topics covered include NIL deals, scholarship conversations, MLB Draft preparation, and the transfer portal pressure that builds earlier than most parents realize.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 - Are you that parent at the field?

1:21 - When your son stops asking to go hit

6:21 - The vision conversation framework

10:57 - Why the swing fix is never mechanical

11:34 - How to deliver advice so your son receives it

18:17 - The toxic baseball parent always solves itself

22:26 - The field self-test every parent should run

ABOUT THE MVA PODCAST

Matt Hannaford is an MLB agent who gives you the insider playbook on travel ball parenting, college recruiting, the transfer portal, scouting and MLB Draft decisions. The Most Valuable Agent Podcast helps parents and players navigate the system with confidence.

CONNECT WITH MATT

Alignd Sports Agency: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#TravelBaseball #YouthBaseball #BaseballParents #MLBDraft

Stop Paying for Exposure — Your 11-Year-Old Doesn't Need It May 13, 2026

You're probably spending too much on travel baseball for the wrong reasons — and the people telling you it's necessary are the ones who benefit when you do.

MLB agent Matt Hannaford answers three listener questions that hit the same nerve every travel ball parent shares: how much is too much, when does specialization actually make sense, and what do you do when a coach is treating your kid unfairly.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- Why no college coach or pro scout is watching your 11-year-old play — and what that means for where to spend your money

- The hierarchy most travel ball families have backwards: exposure, competition, development — and why flipping it is the only path that actually works

- When sport specialization makes sense (and the warning sign that it's happening too early)

- The Tommy John surgery reality nobody tells you about — and why a 13-year-old with a torn UCL has a problem his parents don't understand yet

- How to talk to a youth coach about playing time without your kid paying the price

Matt opens with a question from Steve, a parent who just paid $3,200 for summer travel ball for his 11-year-old son and is staring down another $7,000 of expenses this year. Matt's answer reframes the entire spending conversation. No college coach is scouting 11-year-olds. No pro scout is scouting 11-year-olds. The only people scouting 11-year-olds are other travel ball programs trying to recruit your kid into the next paid tier.

From there, Matt walks through the development-first hierarchy and explains why it has to come before competition and exposure, not after. He uses Brandon Nimmo as a real example — a first-round MLB draft pick who came out of Wyoming and barely attended any showcase events in high school. The lesson: if your son is good enough, they will find him. The events most parents are told they have to attend are not the gatekeepers parents think they are.

Rick's question follows: his 10-year-old's travel coach is telling the family to drop soccer and focus on baseball year-round. Matt pulls from his own multi-sport background — hockey, baseball, basketball, football — and from the Aspen Institute research on youth burnout to explain why early specialization is being sold to families who do not need it. He shares a story from his own client base: a travel ball coach whose player tore his UCL after a parent ignored a rest warning and took the kid to play in another team's tournament. The doctor's recommendation: put baseball down for six years.

The final question comes from Sean, whose son was moved to batting ninth after one fielding error — despite hitting .380. Matt names what is actually happening here. Coaches do not move hitters down for a defensive error. That is a coach with an axe to grind, not a coaching decision. He gives parents and high school players a step-by-step framework for the conversation: do not complain about lineup spot, ask what specifically the coach needs to see for trust to be earned back, and hold the coach accountable to his own answer. The episode covers college recruiting timing, the WWBA tournament in Atlanta, Perfect Game events in Jupiter, and what USA Baseball selection actually looks like.

ABOUT THE SHOW

Matt Hannaford is an MLB agent with 26 years representing Major League Baseball players. He gives you the insider playbook on travel baseball, college recruiting, the transfer portal, and MLB Draft decisions so you can navigate the system with confidence and stop being sold to.

CONNECT WITH MATT

Alignd Sports Agency: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#TravelBaseball #YouthSports #MLBDraft #BaseballParent

The Goal Isn't To Be the Best 8-Year-Old — It's To Be the Best 18-Year-Old May 06, 2026

Kevin Gergel played at Georgia Tech, became an All-American catcher at Kennesaw State, was drafted by the Seattle Mariners — and saw his pro career end almost before it really began.

So when his son Kellan was four years old and starting T-ball, Kevin and his wife Teal created their philosophy that has shaped every decision they've made around travel baseball ever since:

The goal was not to raise the best 8-year-old on the field. The goal was to raise the best 18-year-old.

That philosophy changed how they approached travel baseball, development, exposure, pressure, failure, and the parent-player relationship.

In this episode, Matt Hannaford sits down with Kevin and Kellan Gergel for a real conversation about what most baseball families are missing: the long game.

Because exposure is not the goal. Exposure is the byproduct of becoming the kind of player worth watching.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- The philosophy Kevin and Teal built their decisions around — and why it reshaped everything they did from T-ball through high school

- Why Matt argues that exposure is a byproduct, not a goal — and how most travel ball parents are getting things backwards

- The moment Kevin realized that trying to fix his son's batting stance was the wrong approach

- 90% of players say the mental game is the most important part of baseball — but how much of their time spent training actually reflects that

- Austin Riley's 2019: didn't make the Big League team out of spring training, but despite that, hit 15 home runs in three weeks in AAA, called up, hit 9 more in his first 18 big league games and then hit a wall forcing him to make an adjustment

Kellan is 15, stands six-foot-one, and plays for the East Cobb Mariners — one of the most talent-dense travel areas in the country. His coach Kenny Falk played at Kennesaw State with Kevin, got drafted by the Tigers as a AAA closer, and runs the program on a development-first, blue-collar philosophy. Kellan wants to play college baseball. His current goals are velocity on the mound, driving the ball harder at the plate, and working his way from JV to varsity at Blessed Trinity in Roswell — the same program where Joseph Contreras, the senior who pitched for Team Brazil at the WBC and got Aaron Judge to ground into a broken-bat double play, throws bullpens next to him.

Matt walks Kellan through the mental exercise he ran at an event in San Diego with high performance coach Johan Martinez Khalilian — asking a parent of a player to name a complaint, then tracing the complaint back to the underlying vision. Kellan deflects it in a way that tells Matt everything he needs to know: this kid already has the frame most pro athletes spend years trying to build. Matt learns of Kevin's nightly ritual when Kellan was young — telling him "you have what it takes, you have what it takes" — and the parallel humble huddle the family built around it.

The conversation also touches on an unusual family lineage. Kellan's mother Teal is the daughter of Dusty Rhodes and the sister of Cody Rhodes, the current WWE Undisputed Champion. Kevin walks through what his brother-in-law's "undesirable to undeniable" mindset has meant for how Kellan thinks about betting on himself — and why the family's grounding in faith, family, and work has held up across three very different sports at three very different levels.

Matt closes with a rapid-fire round. When he asks Kevin to finish the sentence "my biggest fear for him on the baseball field is..." Kevin's answer is the line that frames the whole episode: my biggest fear is that he'll feel like he has to perform. I've already had more joy watching him play than I will ever need.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is the president and CEO of Aligned Sports Agency and the host of the Most Valuable Agent podcast. Over 25+ years he has negotiated more than $2 billion in MLB contracts, representing Manny Machado, Albert Pujols, Joey Votto, Austin Riley, and Liam Hendriks, with prior exposure to Barry Bonds, Mike Piazza, and Trevor Hoffman. He gives you the insider playbook on college recruiting, the transfer portal, and MLB Draft decisions.

LINKS & RESOURCES

https://www.aligndsports.com/

https://eastcobbbaseball.com/teams/

Watch Next: https://youtu.be/S9tGzT3foYM

#TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #MLBDraft #YouthSports #MostValuableAgent

Almost Every MLB Player I Work With Has the Same Wound — And It's Their Dad Apr 29, 2026

Almost every pro baseball player Matt Hannaford represents has the same wound — and it traces back to their relationship with their dad. In this live event, MLB agent Matt Hannaford and high performance coach Jo Martinez Killian sit down with parents and young athletes to walk through the pattern Joe has seen in nearly every major league locker room he's ever worked in, and what actually breaks the cycle before it starts.

Subscribe to the channel for the insider playbook on what pro scouts, agents, and performance coaches actually see in elite players — and what most parents get wrong long before the draft conversation ever happens.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- Why Norway produces more elite athletes per capita than any country in the world — and the sports rules they enforce before age 13

- The three-word reframe that took one of Matt's clients from AA to a home run on his first major league pitch

- How to turn a complaint into a vision you both agree on — the exact script

- The difference between expectations and agreements, and why expectations are a pathway to resentment

- Why "I don't wanna see my kid struggle" is the instinct that steals the one thing they actually need from you

Matt reads a letter from the father of a division one SEC pitcher with a zero ERA who is draft-eligible — a letter that made Matt call Joe the same day and say we have to do this live. The dad writes that his son, at 20, told him flat out he cannot relax around him anymore because every conversation turns into criticism. The dad's response is the line that frames the entire episode: there are times I wish he would just step away from baseball so he can feel how much I love him and how it has nothing to do with performance.

Jo breaks down the framework he uses with pro athletes across MLB, NBA, NHL, and NCAA locker rooms. Where there is no vision, the people perish — but most parents are leading from complaints instead of vision, and from expectations instead of agreements. He walks through the four-step move that turns an expectation like "I expect you to respect me" into an agreement both parent and kid actually own. He names the fawning pattern coaches see in kids who have learned to pacify the adult in front of them instead of saying what they actually want.

Matt shares the moment Jo called him out on a client call — Matt jumped in to answer a question Jo was still working through with the player, and Jo told him afterward: you stole his growth. The question was his weight to lift. That single exchange is the frame for the entire conversation with youth athletes and their parents. The instinct to take struggle away from your kid is the instinct that leaves them unable to carry anything hard later. Struggle is the gift. The discomfort is where the identity gets built.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — The Letter From a Division One Dad

6:30 — Norway's Sports Rules Before Age 13

7:50 — His Dream Not Mine: Jo's Soccer Story

26:59 — Why Success Is Also Poison

37:59 — You Stole His Growth: The Struggle Is the Gift

40:38 — Complaints Are Vision in Disguise

1:02:42 — Expectations Lead to Resentment

59:15 — The Three-Word Vision That Got Zach Cole Called Up

1:19:31 — Disempowered vs. Empowered Language

1:30:51 — Baseball Does Not Make a Good God

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is the president and CEO of Aligned Sports Agency and the host of the Most Valuable Agent podcast. Over 20+ years he has negotiated more than $2 billion in MLB contracts, representing Manny Machado, Albert Pujols, Joey Votto, Austin Riley, and Liam Hendriks, with prior exposure to Barry Bonds, Mike Piazza, and Trevor Hoffman. He gives you the insider playbook on college recruiting, the transfer portal, and MLB Draft decisions.

LINKS & RESOURCES

Alignd Sports Agency: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Episode with Jo: https://youtu.be/rR-yZoLEQ3s

The Dad Effect: https://youtu.be/6opkFoZD-sY

#CollegeBaseball #MLBDraft #YouthSports #BaseballParents #MostValuableAgent

Why 50 Travel Ball Games + 50 Practices Beats 100 Games Apr 22, 2026

Your son may play 80 games in a single summer, but he can't tell you what he worked on at practice last week. Sound familiar?

Today's guest is Justin Cryer, former professional player, Ole Miss Rebel, former Houston Astros area scout, and now Director of Sports Marketing at Marucci.

Justin joined Matt at Marucci's newly opened Hitter's House in Scottsdale, Arizona, during Spring Training for a conversation that hits on everything from player development and scouting to travel ball and parenting. And beyond his role at Marucci, Justin brings another valuable perspective to the table: he's also a travel ball dad and coach for his 10-year-old son's team.

If you care about helping your son develop the right way, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Subscribe for the insider playbook on recruiting, the draft, and building your son's baseball career the smart way.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✔ What MLB scouts actually evaluate in your son — and why body type and character matter, sometimes more than the box score.

✔ The development-first framework: why you should flip the priority from exposure to development and what that looks like practically week to week

✔ Why Justin fought travel baseball for his own son — and what changed his mind

✔ What happens inside an MLB draft room that would surprise you — including why some top draft prospects can go undrafted

✔ Why making your son play another sport might be the best thing you do for his baseball career this year

Justin Cryer is a former Ole Miss pitcher who spent five drafts as an area scout for the Houston Astros covering Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida. He scouted Alex Bregman and put one of the highest grades in the organization on Kyle Tucker. Justin now leads Marucci's Marketing Department and gave us a tour of their Hitter's House in Scottsdale, Arizona — a baseball performance lab, bat fitting facility, and pro player training space. Justin coaches his 10-year-old son's travel team alongside former big leaguer pitcher Will Harris.

In this episode of the MVA Podcast, Matt Hannaford sits down with Justin at the Hitter's House to get the dual perspective you can't find anywhere else: what the professional baseball industry is actually looking for in your son, and how a dad with that insider knowledge is navigating travel ball for his own kid. Justin explains why the speed of youth baseball is forcing parents into decisions they're not ready to make, why 50 games and 50 practices beats 100 games, and why the best thing he did for his son was make him play flag football even though his son didn't love the idea. Whether your son is 10 or 17, this conversation will reshape how you think about his development.

ABOUT THE MVA PODCAST

#MVAPodcast #CollegeBaseball #TravelBaseball #YouthBaseball #MLBDraft #BaseballDad

No D1 Offers? What You're Really Getting Wrong About D1 Recruiting Apr 15, 2026

Struggling to get recruited for D1 baseball? Subscribe and watch — an MLB agent with 26 years of experience answers the recruiting questions every family is asking.

You throw 87 mph. You've been to showcases. You've sent 50 emails. And still — nothing from D1 programs. Sound familiar? In this Q&A episode of The Most Valuable Agent Podcast, MLB agent Matt Hannaford breaks down exactly why the "just do more showcases" advice is failing you, what D1 coaches are actually looking for, and the honest conversations you need to have before your recruiting window closes.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ Why attending more showcases won't fix your recruiting problem — and what will\

✓ The one question you should be asking your coach that almost nobody asks

✓ Why 87 mph is NOT the reason D1 schools aren't calling you back

✓ How the transfer portal changed the D2-to-D1 pathway (and why that's good news)

✓ What to do when 50 emails to college coaches go unanswered

In this episode, Matt fields real questions from families navigating the college baseball recruiting process — a junior in North Carolina throwing 87 with zero D1 interest, a dad in Arizona whose son committed D2 but dreams of D1, and an Ohio family that has sent dozens of emails and attended camps with nothing to show for it. Matt pulls from 26 years as an MLB agent to deliver the kind of direct, honest recruiting advice that most travel ball coaches won't give you. He challenges the showcase-obsessed culture, explains how the transfer portal has rewritten the D2-to-D1 playbook, and walks you through the exact conversations you need to have with coaches and with your own family to figure out where you truly stand. If you're a parent trying to help your son get recruited, or a player wondering why the phone isn't ringing, this episode is the reality check you didn't know you needed.

HAVE A RECRUITING QUESTION?

DM Matt on Instagram or email Matt@TheMostValuableAgent.com

→ Subscribe for weekly episodes helping you make smarter baseball decisions for your family.

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/

Email: Matt@TheMostValuableAgent.com

LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PLATFORM

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-valuable-agent-with-matt-hannaford/id1757332100

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1R8ibnKyGJFnKqX3g60O4x?si=5349e0edf5e8441c

#MVAPodcast #D1Baseball #CollegeRecruiting

Travel Baseball: How Many Games Is Too Many for Your Son? | MVA Podcast Apr 08, 2026

Is your son playing too many travel baseball games? MLB agent Matt Hannaford answers real questions from travel ball parents about burnout, choosing the right program, and when exposure actually matters. Subscribe for insider advice every week.

In this Q&A episode, Matt is joined by producer Mike to tackle three questions submitted by travel baseball parents from across the country. If you have a son in travel ball, these are the conversations you need to hear before writing another check or signing up for another tournament.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ How to tell when your son's travel baseball schedule is doing more harm than good

✓ What to actually evaluate when choosing a travel ball program (hint: it's not the price tag)

✓ Why the best players in the country attend fewer events than you think

✓ What to do when your son's coach won't start him in big tournaments

✓ The real reason chasing exposure too early can backfire

A dad from Texas asks about his 13-year-old son burning out after 70-plus games a year. Matt breaks down the research on youth baseball burnout, including a study showing how many players quit before they even reach high school. He explains why enjoyment is the foundation that everything else is built on, and shares a practical approach to scaling back without losing development momentum.

A mom from Georgia wants to know if the most expensive travel ball team is the best option for her 14-year-old pitcher. Matt walks through how to evaluate a program based on its actual track record of player development, not marketing claims, and explains why investing in individual training may be smarter than paying $5,000 for a team that promises exposure.

A dad from Florida asks whether to leave a program where his 15-year-old outfielder gets benched during big tournaments. Matt gives a direct framework for having that conversation with the coach and knowing when it's time to move on versus when you need a reality check on expectations.

Matt also addresses the broader culture of parents fast-tracking kids into exposure events at nine and ten years old. He shares a real story about a 12-year-old who tore a ligament because warning signs were ignored, and explains why development must come before exposure every time.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 - Introduction

00:41 - Question 1: Is 70 games a year too much for a 13-year-old?

03:54 - How common is a 70-game travel ball schedule?

04:12 - How many events do the best players actually attend?

07:21 - Question 2: Is the most expensive travel ball team worth it?

10:47 - Question 3: Should you leave a team that benches your son in big tournaments?

14:17 - The exposure trap: why parents are getting it wrong

19:07 - Closing and how to submit your questions

Have a question for Matt? DM him on Instagram or email Matt@TheMostValuableAgent.com

ABOUT THE MVA PODCAST

#MVAPodcast #TravelBaseball #YouthBaseballBurnout #CollegeBaseball

Your 10-Year-Old Doesn't Need Year-Round Baseball (An MLB Agent Explains Why) Apr 01, 2026

Should your son play baseball year round? MLB agent Matt Hannaford breaks down why scouts and college coaches actually WANT to see multi-sport athletes — and why the pressure to specialize at 10-12 years old is doing more harm than good.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ Why MLB scouts and college recruiting coordinators attend players' OTHER sports

✓ The real reason year-round baseball pressure exists (and who profits from it)

✓ At what age specializing actually makes sense — and why 10-12 is too early

✓ How a first-round MLB draft pick used soccer skills to become an elite shortstop

✓ The one question to ask your son before making any decision about sports

———

Year-round baseball has become the default for families with talented young players. Travel baseball tournaments run 12 months a year, travel ball coaches pressure families to commit to every event, and the fear of falling behind pushes parents to drop every other sport by age 10.

But here's what 25 years as an MLB agent has taught Matt Hannaford: the players who make it to the highest levels are overwhelmingly multi-sport athletes. Scouts don't just evaluate your son's swing. They evaluate his athleticism, leadership, footwork, and competitive instincts — skills that come from playing football, basketball, soccer, and other sports during the off-season.

Matt shares the story of Michael Garciaparra (sound familiar? He's Nomar's brother), a first-round pick by the Seattle Mariners — who played four sports in high school. The scout who drafted him credited his soccer background for the athleticism that made him a standout shortstop.

This episode tackles the three forces pushing families toward early specialization: travel baseball organizations that demand year-round commitment, high school coaches who discourage second sports, and the rising MLB draft signing bonuses that make parents feel like every missed tournament is a missed opportunity.

Matt's advice is clear: if your son is 10-15 years old and wants to play multiple sports, let him. The decision to specialize can wait until 16-18 when you actually have enough information to make it wisely.

———

▶ Watch next: https://youtu.be/mheMuyG3IDg

▶ Full playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5H4dTL0Gs4tsaF8gTNfIV_KiKbwntzjm

———

ABOUT THE HOST

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent who has navigated the college recruiting process, MLB Draft, and professional baseball landscape for hundreds of families. The Most Valuable Agent Podcast gives parents and players the insider knowledge they need to make smarter decisions about travel baseball, recruiting, and player development.

📩 DM Matt with questions for future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#MVAPodcast #YouthBaseball #TravelBaseball #MultiSportAthlete #CollegeBaseball

Stop Coaching Your Son From the Stands (Do This Instead) | MLB Agent Advice Mar 25, 2026

Your son's baseball coach doesn't see what you see — so how do you help without making things worse? Matt Hannaford, an MLB Agent, answers real parents' questions about the #1 mistake baseball moms and dads make.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ Why your son listens to coaches but tunes YOU out — and how to fix it

✓ The strategy that helps you build up emotional equity with your son that leads to him actually valuing for your opinion and not tuning it out.

✓ How to tell if your kid is burned out or done with baseball entirely

✓ What MLB dads do differently than travel ball parents (and why it works)

✓ How to handle a high school coach who doesn't respect your son's talent

Every baseball parent has been there: you KNOW what your son needs to fix, but the moment you say it, he shuts down. Your wife says you're being too hard on him. You wait until the next day, but he can still tell you're disappointed. The coach isn't developing him the way you'd like. And you're spending thousands on travel ball wondering if any of this is working.

In this Q&A episode, 25-year MLB agent Matt Hannaford answers real questions from baseball parents — a college-baseball dad in Illinois whose son shuts down, a mom in New Jersey whose 15-year-old might be burned out, a dad in Tennessee whose silence speaks louder than words, and a stepdad in Virginia trying to find his place in his stepson's baseball journey.

Matt reveals the counterintuitive approach that actually works: stop giving advice entirely, build what he calls an "equity bank" of pure support, and wait for your son to come to YOU. He shares what he's seen from MLB fathers — guys who played in the big leagues — and explains why they do the exact opposite of what most travel ball dads do. The result? Their kids seek out their advice instead of running from it.

Whether you're dealing with a coach who doesn't see your son's talent, a kid who seems to be losing his love for the game, or the complicated dynamics of blended families in youth sports, this episode gives you a clear framework for being the parent your son actually wants in his corner.

ABOUT THE HOST

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent who has guided hundreds of families through the college recruiting process, MLB Draft, and professional baseball landscape. The Most Valuable Agent Podcast gives parents and players the insider knowledge they need to make smarter decisions about travel baseball, recruiting, and player development.

📩 DM Matt with your questions for future episodes: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#MVAPodcast #BaseballParent #TravelBaseball #YouthBaseball #BaseballDad

"Stop Making It About Yourself" — What Every Baseball Parent Needs to Hear Mar 18, 2026

How should parents act at baseball games? MLB agent Matt Hannaford shares the honest truth about what your game-day behavior is doing to your son — and his recruiting future.

If you've ever felt the urge to yell coaching advice from the stands or voice your frustration about the lineup, this episode will change the way you show up to every game. Matt breaks down exactly why negative sideline behavior backfires — and what pro scouts and college recruiters actually think when they see it.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ Why negative comments at games are never received the way you intend them

✓ The real question to ask yourself before you yell anything from the stands ✓ How pro scouts and college recruiters evaluate parent behavior — and why it matters starting at age 10

✓ Where the line is between supportive parenting and adding pressure

✓ The military analogy that reframes how you should present yourself at every game

In this solo episode of the Most Valuable Agent Podcast, MLB agent Matt Hannaford tackles one of the most common questions he gets from travel baseball parents: how should I act at my son's games? Drawing from his own experience as a former player and years of representing professional athletes, Matt delivers a direct and honest message — during a game, your only role is to be supportive.

Matt explains why even well-intentioned coaching advice shouted from the stands has the opposite effect of what parents want. He reveals that constructive criticism delivered during competition is almost never received productively, and shares how he's watched parent-player relationships suffer because of poor timing. The key insight: most parents yell because they need to get something off their chest — not because it will actually help their son.

Perhaps most importantly, Matt pulls back the curtain on how the baseball industry evaluates families. Pro scouts actively befriend parents to assess what they're dealing with. College recruiting coordinators notice which parents are hotheads. And the universal belief in scouting circles? The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. If you're the parent who can't control yourself in the stands, it will directly impact your son's ability to be recruited, scouted, and drafted.

Whether your son is 10 years old and just starting travel baseball or a high school prospect being evaluated by colleges, this episode gives you a clear framework for how to show up as the parent your son needs you to be. Check the timestamps below to jump to the section most relevant to you.

SUBSCRIBE to the Most Valuable Agent Podcast for weekly insider content on travel baseball, college recruiting, and the MLB Draft.

LINKS & RESOURCES

→ Related Episode — You Are Not the Hero of Your Son's Baseball Journey: https://youtu.be/jcw9Fluw6LY

→ Area Scout Interview Episode: https://youtu.be/4ZxkY3iohb4

→ Full MVA Podcast Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5H4dTL0Gs4tsaF8gTNfIV_KiKbwntzjm

→ Follow Matt Hannaford: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#MostValuableAgent #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #CollegeRecruiting

MLB Agent Q&A: Off-Season Work Ethic, Playing Time & Contract Negotiation Secrets Mar 11, 2026

An MLB agent answers real questions from baseball families across the country.

Your son's off-season work ethic, his playing time battles, navigating tough coach conversations — these are the issues that keep baseball parents up at night. In this special Q&A episode of The Most Valuable Agent Podcast, MLB agent Matt Hannaford sits down with producer Mike to answer real listener questions with 25 years of professional baseball experience behind every answer.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✓ How to evaluate your son's off-season effort without overreacting or under-reacting

✓ The right way to handle a coach who benches your kid — and who should actually have the conversation

✓ Why big leaguers take a month off the couch after the season (and what that means for your son)

✓ Inside the Liam Hendricks contract negotiation — club options, buyouts, and how Matt helped support his client as he went through cancer and Tommy John surgery

✓ Second-order thinking: the negotiation skill every great agent needs

EPISODE SUMMARY

Matt Hannaford opens up about the realities of youth baseball development, urging parents to apply common sense before comparing a 10-year-old's off-season to a draft prospect's. He walks through how age, ability level, and long-term goals should shape expectations — and why rest is not laziness. The conversation shifts to one of the most emotional topics for baseball families: watching your son ride the bench despite working hard. Matt breaks down how to approach the coach (and why there are times depending on your son's age that he — not you — should be the one doing it). He shares how this mirrors real professional player-coach dynamics and why self-advocacy is a skill that starts in high school. In the final segment, Matt takes listeners behind the scenes of one of his most memorable contract negotiations: the Liam Hendricks contract with the Chicago White Sox. He explains how second-order thinking, strategic option structuring, and careful preparation created long-term financial protection for Liam. Matt closes with a powerful reflection on the privilege of representing players and the trust families place in their agent.

Dive into the timestamps below to jump to the topic that matters most to you.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome & Q&A format introduction 0:54 — Off-season work ethic: what parents should really look for 3:58 — Why rest is not laziness — how big leaguers recover 5:38 — My son rides the bench despite working hard all week 6:55 — Why your son (not you) should talk to the coach 8:22 — Specific questions to ask a coach about playing time 11:21 — Inside the Liam Hendricks contract negotiation 13:32 — What is second-order thinking in deal-making? 15:18 — Club options, buyouts & how Matt protected Liam 16:40 — Liam's cancer comeback and the contract that kept paying 17:48 — The privilege of being an agent & what players mean to Matt 21:06 — How to submit your question for the next Q&A

DM Matt on Instagram to submit your question for the next Q&A episode → https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/?hl=en

LINKS & RESOURCES

▶ Watch previous MVA episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5H4dTL0Gs4tsaF8gTNfIV_KiKbwntzjm

📲 Follow Matt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/?hl=en

ABOUT THE MOST VALUABLE AGENT PODCAST

MLB agent Matt Hannaford shares 25 years of professional baseball experience to help players, families, and aspiring agents navigate the business of baseball. New episodes weekly.

#MVAPodcast #BaseballParents #MLBAgent #YouthBaseball #BaseballDad

Your Son Is Being Recruited? A Deputy AD Explains How College Baseball NIL Really Works Mar 04, 2026

Is your son being recruited for college baseball? This is the NIL conversation his future depends on. Subscribe for weekly college baseball insights.

If you're a parent trying to decode scholarship offers, revenue sharing, outside deals, and cap space — or your son is deciding between the portal and the draft — Georgia's Deputy Athletic Director just laid it all out.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

✅ The 4 buckets of money available to your son — and why most families only know about 2 of them

✅ How to tell the difference between a real NIL offer and an inflated promise that will never clear the system

✅ The one question you should ask every school before your son signs anything

✅ Why chasing portal money after one year could cost your son his degree, his reputation, and future deals

✅ What schools actually think when agents call with big numbers — and how to tell if yours is helping or hurting

Your son's college decision isn't just about the biggest number on the table. Will Lawler has been negotiating these deals from inside one of the top athletic departments in the country since 2018. He's watched the landscape shift from 11.7 scholarships to a $20.4 million institutional cap — and he's here to tell you exactly how the money actually moves.

In this episode, Will walks you through the four distinct financial buckets every college baseball player can access: incidental benefits, scholarships, institutional revenue sharing, and outside endorsement deals. He explains how the House Settlement created a cap that schools must manage across every sport — and why that means the baseball dollars available to your son are directly shaped by football, basketball, and Title IX decisions happening behind the scenes.

Matt and Will go deep on how NIL Go now vets every outside deal for legitimate business purpose and fair market value. If a school is promising your son big outside dollars, you'll learn why those promises mean nothing unless they can explain exactly which companies, which deals, and how they'll clear the system. Will reveals the question every family should ask: "Have you ever not delivered on what you promised?"

The conversation turns personal when Matt explains why he can never bluff a school — and how one lie from an agent can destroy 25 years of reputation. If you're choosing an advisor for your son, this is the filter you need.

Whether your son is a high school senior weighing offers, a portal candidate evaluating his options, or a draft-eligible player deciding between pro ball and another college year — scroll to the timestamps below and jump to the section that matches your situation.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Opening & Georgia baseball opening day

01:28 Will's path from the SEC office to Georgia

01:47 How the landscape changed (what parents need to know)

05:04 The 4 buckets of money: what your son can actually get

08:08 From 11.7 scholarships to 34 roster spots

10:58 Revenue sharing vs. outside deals: why it matters to your wallet

13:28 How NIL Go vets deals (and why some promises won't clear)

15:43 Why football gets the biggest slice — and what that means for baseball

18:07 The part families forget: player development still matters most

21:30 The House Settlement: what it changed and what's coming next

25:30 What needs fixing in the system right now

26:28 What makes a great agent (from the school's side of the table)

28:43 The ONE question to ask before your son signs

33:54 What every agent should understand about cap space

36:39 Matt flips the script: are agent numbers real or inflated?

38:27 Why one lie ends an agent's career

40:18 Every conversation is a negotiation (the story every player needs to hear)

44:40 When players break commitments — and what schools really think

46:47 Is the transfer portal good or bad for your son?

50:03 3 things Will would tell his best friend's family about recruiting

54:24 Rapid fire: Why Georgia, long-term thinking, college athletics in 2030

LINKS & RESOURCES

→ Watch the full MVA Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5H4dTL0Gs4tsaF8gTNfIV_KiKbwntzjm

→ University of Georgia Baseball: https://georgiadogs.com/sports/baseball

If your son is going through this process right now, drop your biggest question below — Matt reads every comment. 👇

#MostValuableAgent #CollegeBaseballNIL #BaseballRecruiting

Your Signing Bonus Means NOTHING to MLB Teams — Here's What Actually Matters Feb 25, 2026

MLB draft or college baseball? If your son is a high school player facing this decision, don't wait until draft day to figure it out. Subscribe for weekly baseball career advice.

In this episode, 25-year MLB agent Matt Hannaford breaks down exactly how families should navigate the NIL, college baseball, and MLB Draft decision — and why money alone should never drive it.

✅ Why your signing bonus size determines how much opportunity your son actually gets

✅ How college NIL offers work (revenue share vs. NIL deals) and what's negotiable

✅ What a first-year professional contract actually includes — bonus splits, tax strategy, scholarship plans, clawback clauses

✅ The pre-draft mental exercise that prevents families from making emotional, last-minute decisions

✅ How to evaluate your son's emotional maturity for pro ball — and why getting it wrong can end a career

The MLB Draft decision is one of the most consequential moments in a young baseball player's life, and most families go into it without the information they need. Matt walks through the full landscape: how scouts evaluate high school players using player comps and projectability, why college programs adjust their offers as draft stock rises, and what the money actually represents from the organization's perspective — not yours.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that a signing bonus is just a paycheck. Matt explains how bonus size directly correlates with organizational commitment. A player who signs for $100,000 may find himself playing twice a week at the lowest level, stuck in a Catch-22 where the team won't invest playing time in a low-cost asset. Meanwhile, a player signed for $2 million gets every opportunity to develop. Understanding this dynamic changes how families should evaluate any draft offer.

Matt also breaks down the college side: how revenue share agreements differ from NIL marketing deals, why both are negotiable, and what leverage looks like for a player projected to go high in the draft. He covers professional contract specifics most families never learn about until it's too late — the seven-season control period, the college scholarship plan (and how teams try to undercut it), incentive bonus structures that deduct from your scholarship, and clawback provisions that can reclaim your signing bonus if you retire early.

Whether your son is a projected first-rounder or a late-round possibility, this episode gives you the framework to make the decision with clarity, not panic. Scroll down to the timestamps to jump straight to the contract breakdown.

Matt Hannaford is a Major League Baseball agent with over 25 years of experience representing players from first-round picks to Hall of Famers. He created The Most Valuable Agent Podcast to give baseball families the insider knowledge they need to navigate the business side of the game.

#MostValuableAgent #MLBDraft #BaseballNIL

The Arm Injury Crisis: How to Counter Rising Arm Injuries with Proven Mechanics Feb 20, 2026

75% of top-drafted pitchers never make it to the big leagues. If your son is a pitcher, this episode could change everything about how you approach his development. Subscribe for weekly baseball career insights.

Former first-round pick Justin Orenduff had the GM of the Dodgers watching him pitch in Double-A. Then his shoulder gave out. That injury sent him on a decade-long quest to understand why some pitchers stay healthy and others break down. His answer is backed by data from 1,100 drafted pitchers and published with Duke University.

✅ Why 75% of top-drafted pitchers never reach the big leagues — and only 2–3% become everyday starters

✅ How college innings count against a pitcher's professional career before it even starts

✅ What the DVS score is and how it quantifies injury risk on a 0–24 scale

✅ The free training tool every youth pitcher already has access to that nobody talks about

✅ Why velocity and longevity don't have to be mutually exclusive

Justin Orenduff was a first-round draft pick of the Los Angeles Dodgers who had his career derailed by a shoulder injury. After surgery, his surgeon told him something that changed his entire mindset: the way he threw the baseball caused the injury. That single phrase launched Justin into years of research, eventually partnering with Duke University to publish a formal study on pitching mechanics and injury risk.

His study tracked the top three pitchers drafted and signed by every MLB organization since 2013 — over 1,100 pitchers total. The findings were staggering: nearly half arrived in professional baseball already carrying arm injuries from their amateur careers. College pitchers who needed surgery had accumulated only around 320 total innings, and that number includes their college workload. The professional runway before a major injury was shockingly short.

From that research, Justin built DVS — the Delivery Value System — a biomechanics scoring model that rates a pitcher's delivery from 0 to 24 based on injury risk and mechanical efficiency. Pitchers like Justin Verlander, Clayton Kershaw, and Mariano Rivera all scored above 16. Justin himself scored a 7 before his surgery and climbed to 17–20 after learning how to move differently — throwing harder at 35 years old than at any point in his professional career.

The conversation also dives into the USPBL, a four-team developmental league where Justin runs pitcher development. Unlike traditional independent baseball, the USPBL prioritizes skill development days, individualized plans, and a culture where committing to growth matters more than winning that night's game. So far, 52 players have signed with MLB organizations and 7 have reached the big leagues.

Matt and Justin also tackle the uncomfortable reality behind youth pitching culture: training programs that chase velocity to validate their own business models, not the pitcher's long-term career. And they explore a simple thought experiment that every baseball family should consider: if you had to choose between a coach who promises 100 mph and a coach who promises health, which would you pick? Scroll down to the timestamps to hear why that's the wrong question.

If this episode changed how you think about pitcher development, share it with a baseball family who needs to hear it.

RESOURCES

→ DVS Baseball: https://dvsbaseball.com

→ Justin on X/Twitter: @JustinOrenduff

Matt Hannaford is a Major League Baseball agent with 25+ years of experience advising families on baseball career decisions. Justin Orenduff is a former first-round MLB Draft pick, pitching biomechanics researcher, and head of pitcher development for the USPBL.

Raising a Ballplayer in a Big-League Home Feb 04, 2026

Most baseball families believe the path to success is more reps, more pressure, more seriousness — but former World Series champion and MLB manager Kurt Suzuki sees it differently.

In this special episode of The Most Valuable Agent, MLB agent Matt Hannaford sits down with Kurt Suzuki and his 12-year-old son Kai for an honest, refreshing conversation about youth baseball, parenting, pressure, and what actually builds confident, resilient players.

This isn't a highlight-reel interview — it's a real look inside how a big leaguer thinks about development before the stats, rankings, and expectations take over. Kurt opens up about the mistakes he made as a player, the lessons he wishes he learned earlier, and why his number-one rule as a dad and coach is never telling a kid to "do more" after a bad game.

Together, they talk through the emotional side of baseball: handling failure, separating identity from performance, why fun matters more than trophies at 12 years old, and how parents can support growth without accidentally creating burnout. Kai shares what it's actually like growing up around the big leagues — from clubhouse prank stories to what helps him stay loose when games get tense.

If you're a parent, coach, or player navigating travel ball, pressure-filled weekends, and the constant feeling that your kid should be doing more — this episode brings clarity, perspective, and a much-needed exhale.

Subscribe for weekly insight on player development, mindset, recruiting, and the business of baseball — with conversations families rarely get to hear this honestly.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why "having fun" isn't soft — it's a competitive advantage • How Kurt separates being a dad from being a coach • The one phrase Kurt refuses to say after bad games • Why practice should be intense — but games should be free • How kids absorb pressure even when adults think they're hiding it • Why winning at 12 doesn't matter as much as learning how to win • How to teach confidence without tying identity to performance • What youth players actually need after failure • How clubhouse culture translates directly to youth baseball teams • Why burnout often starts with good intentions from parents

ABOUT KURT SUZUKI

Kurt Suzuki is a former MLB catcher, World Series champion, and current Major League manager. Over a 16-year big league career, he became known as a leader, game-caller, and teammate-first professional. Today, Kurt brings those same principles to coaching, player development, and parenting — emphasizing preparation, mindset, and respect for the game.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He has represented MVPs, All-Stars, and World Series champions, and now shares weekly insight on youth development, recruiting, mindset, and the business of baseball through The Most Valuable Agent podcast.

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/YouTube (subscribe for weekly insight): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#YouthBaseball #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #PlayerDevelopment #MentalGame #BaseballMindset #MostValuableAgent #ParentCoaching #BaseballCulture

Don't Let an Injury Ruin Their Financial Future Jan 21, 2026

Most baseball families think "insurance" only becomes relevant after a player signs a pro contract — but the truth is, disability insurance is already shaping decisions in high school recruiting, NIL negotiations, and college roster building.

In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, MLB agent Matt Hannaford sits down with David Brookbank, co-founder of Income Protection Consultants (IPC), one of the most trusted independent voices in the disability insurance space for elite athletes. David has spent 30+ years inside disability policy structure, claims, and underwriting — and he's also deeply plugged into sports law and the business side of college athletics through Arizona State's sports law ecosystem.

Together, they break down what disability insurance actually is (and what it isn't), why "loss of value" is the most misunderstood term in amateur baseball, and how families can avoid the biggest mistake: listening only to the person selling the policy.

You'll learn the real layers of coverage (Permanent Total Disability, Critical Injury, Temporary Total Disability), how policy language can completely change whether a claim gets paid, why illness claims can be bigger than injury claims, and how universities are now using disability policies as a tool to attract and retain draft-level talent.

If you're a parent, player, or coach trying to understand what happens if he gets hurt — and how to protect a future before the draft/NIL money shows up — this episode gives you the roadmap.

Subscribe for weekly insight on player development, recruiting, and the business of baseball — with the truth families rarely hear early enough.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• What disability insurance is in sports — and why it exists • The 3 core layers of coverage: PTD vs Critical Injury vs Temporary Total Disability • Why most policies cover athletes 24/7, not just during games • The biggest misconception: why writers and families wrongly call everything "loss of value" • How Tommy John/UCL coverage varies dramatically based on policy wording • Why "required within 30 days" vs "performed within 30 days" can decide a claim • Hidden fine print that can void a payout (ex: % of season missed requirements) • The real claim rates David sees across hundreds of athletes each year • How universities handle insurance options (and why they can't "direct" one policy) • Why disability insurance is becoming part of NIL and revenue-share negotiations • How high school draft prospects use disability coverage as a college decision lever • What premiums can look like for pitchers — and why pitchers are the most expensive to insure • Why policy honesty matters: applications, medical records, and avoiding claim denial

ABOUT DAVID

David Brookbank is the co-founder of Income Protection Consultants (IPC), a specialty consulting firm that analyzes and advises on disability insurance policies for elite athletes across high school, college, and professional sports. David began his career in disability insurance over three decades ago and now focuses on independent policy review, education, underwriting guidance, and claims navigation — without selling the policies himself. He holds a master's in legal studies with a concentration in sports law and contract law and is deeply connected to the sports business ecosystem through Arizona State.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He has negotiated historic contracts, represented MVPs and All-Stars, and now delivers weekly insight on player development, recruiting, and the business of baseball through The Most Valuable Agent podcast.

CONNECT WITH MATT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/YouTube (subscribe for weekly insight): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#YouthBaseball #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #MLBDraft #NIL #DisabilityInsurance #TommyJohn #CollegeBaseball #MostValuableAgent #BaseballBusiness

Why Most Pro Athletes Go Broke - Avoid This Wealth Management Mistake Jan 14, 2026

Most families enter youth and travel baseball thinking the goal is exposure, scholarships, or "getting paid" someday — but the financial reality of the game starts long before a player signs a pro contract. And when money finally shows up (NIL, draft bonuses, big-league paychecks), it often hits fast, loud, and overwhelming.

In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, Matt sits down with Kyle Ourso, a wealth advisor who's spent nearly two decades inside pro baseball — first helping MLB players behind the scenes at Marucci, and now guiding athletes and sudden-net-worth clients through the financial decisions that can define (or derail) their future.

They break down what families and players actually need to know: how to choose a wealth advisor, why "fiduciary" matters, how fees quietly compound into millions, and why athletes are uniquely vulnerable to bad business pitches — not because they're irresponsible, but because they're wired to believe they can "will" anything into success.

The conversation also zooms out to the parent side: the hidden pressure created when travel baseball becomes a financial "investment," why budgeting matters more than most families realize, and how to support a son's dream without putting the family's future at risk.

If you've ever wondered who to trust, what to ask, and how to build real financial clarity in a world full of noise — this episode is for you.

Subscribe for weekly insight on player development, recruiting, and the business of baseball — with the truth families rarely hear early enough.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why athletes are prime targets for "too-good-to-be-true" business opportunities • The difference between an idea and execution (and why most deals fail) • What "fiduciary" really means — and how the term gets misused • The most important questions to ask when interviewing wealth advisors • How different fee structures work — and why some are brutally expensive long-term • Why cash ≠ credit, and how young players get crushed on car/home financing • How to think about money across a baseball career (bonus vs minor league salary vs big-league runway) • Why private investments can be opportunity and liability for public athletes • How MLB differs financially from NFL/NBA (cash flows, timelines, roster realities) • The hidden damage when parents treat travel baseball as a "return on investment"

ABOUT KYLE

Kyle is a wealth advisor specializing in sudden net worth clients — including professional athletes and individuals whose income spikes early and fast. Before finance, Kyle spent nearly two decades in pro baseball with Marucci, working closely with MLB players and learning firsthand how elite performers think, operate, and get approached by outsiders. Today, he helps athletes build plans around cash flow, taxes, major purchases, long-term investing, and life after sports — with an emphasis on education, discipline, and trust.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/YouTube (subscribe for weekly insight): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

The Biggest Gamble of Austin Riley's Career. Dec 24, 2025

Most parents want the roadmap — the blueprint that turns a young athlete into a confident, motivated, successful player. But very few families truly understand what the journey demands emotionally, mentally, relationally, and financially.

In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, Matt sits down with MLB All-Star Austin Riley and his parents, Mike and Elisa Riley, for an unfiltered, start-to-finish conversation about development, failure, trust, and perspective — from youth baseball to the World Series and beyond.

Mike and Elisa explain why they always measured progress over promotions, how constant communication removed regret from hard decisions, and why they accepted that parts of a "normal" childhood would be missed — without ever losing alignment as a family.

Austin opens up about early pro struggles, going 0-for-23 with 18 strikeouts, getting sent back to Triple-A after big league camp, and learning that failure is a skill that must be developed, not avoided. He shares how routine, patience, and learning from veterans helped him survive — and thrive — at the highest level.

The conversation moves through injuries, physical evolution, learning how to train his body, and why setbacks ultimately led to him being in the best physical shape of his life. The episode closes with gratitude, favorite baseball memories, rapid-fire insights, and the lesson that ties everything together:

Trust the process.

This episode is essential listening for parents navigating youth baseball, recruiting, pro dreams, setbacks, injuries, pressure, and the business of sports — and a reminder that development is long, messy, and worth it when trust stays intact.

Subscribe for weekly insight on player development, recruiting, and leadership lessons for parents raising athletes.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why progress matters more than promotions or timelines • How communication eliminated regret for the Riley family • Why missing "normal" childhood moments doesn't mean failure • What early pro failure actually teaches players • How 0-for-23 became a foundation moment • Why panic is more damaging than struggle • How routine separates players who last • What demotions and service-time decisions really mean • How injuries forced Austin to truly learn his body • Why setbacks often create the best versions of players • How trust is built between parents, players, and agents • What it's like turning down $100M+ — and why they did it • Why parents must stop stressing and enjoy the journey • How gratitude reframes success at every level • Why "trust the process" isn't cliché — it's survival

ABOUT AUSTIN RILEY

Austin Riley is an MLB All-Star third baseman for the Atlanta Braves. Drafted out of high school, Austin developed through the minor leagues before becoming one of the game's most consistent hitters. Known for his even-keeled demeanor, work ethic, and professionalism, his journey reflects resilience through failure, mastery of routine, and trust in long-term development.

ABOUT MIKE & ELISA RILEY

Mike and Elisa Riley are the parents of MLB All-Star Austin Riley. Mike, a former college baseball player, emphasized fundamentals, routine, and progress over outcomes. Elisa provided balance, perspective, and emotional grounding — reminding families that the journey moves fast and should be enjoyed. Together, they model how families can support elite development without panic, pressure, or regret.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/YouTube (subscribe for weekly insight): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#YouthBaseball #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #MLBDevelopment #AustinRiley #TrustTheProcess #FailureIsDevelopment #MostValuableAgent

Stop Being the Fixer - How to Truly Empower Your Son's Baseball Career Dec 22, 2025

Most dads step into their son's baseball journey believing they need to fix, protect, analyze, and carry the weight of every result. It comes from love — but it often creates the exact pressure, resentment, and distance they're trying to avoid.

In this solo episode of The Most Valuable Agent, MLB agent Matt Hannaford reframes one of the most misunderstood roles in youth baseball: the role of the father. Your son doesn't need you to be the hero of his story. He needs you to be the guide.

Matt breaks down why trying to "save" your son from failure actually limits his growth, how constant instruction creates dependence instead of confidence, and why the car ride home becomes the most damaging moment in a young player's experience.

You'll learn how to shift from control to clarity, from pressure to trust, and from performance-based approval to the kind of support that allows young players to grow — not just as athletes, but as men.

If you're a dad who wants to stay involved without damaging the relationship or the development process, this episode will change how you show up.

Subscribe for weekly guidance on navigating youth baseball, parenting, and player development with clarity, truth, and strategy.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why your son — not you — must be the hero of his baseball journey • How dads unintentionally create pressure by trying to "help" too much • The difference between being the hero and being the guide • Why constant instruction kills confidence and ownership • How to communicate support without controlling outcomes • What questions build trust instead of resentment • Why the car ride home is the most dangerous moment for relationships • How approval tied to performance damages long-term growth • What happens when dads step into the guide role instead • How this shift impacts your son far beyond baseball

KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR DADS

Your son must carry the challenge — that's how growth happens. Your power as a father doesn't come from control; it comes from clarity and trust. Your words, tone, and presence either build safety or create fear. When you guide instead of manage, your son plays freer, communicates more, and grows faster.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He has represented Hall of Famers, negotiated landmark contracts, and now helps families navigate youth baseball, recruiting, and development with clarity, honesty, and long-term perspective.

CONNECT WITH MATT

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/YouTube (subscribe for weekly episodes): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #MostValuableAgent

What I See as a College Softball Coach and the Dad of the #1 Prospect in Baseball Dec 17, 2025

Most parents want the roadmap — the blueprint that turns a young athlete into a confident, motivated, successful player. But very few people have lived all sides of the journey. In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, Matt sits down with someone who has:

Kevin Griffin — • Head Softball Coach at Belhaven University • Associate Athletic Director • Former college & semipro baseball player • And father of MLB's top minor league prospect, Connor Griffin

Kevin brings a rare perspective: parent, coach, recruiter, evaluator, and someone who has navigated the pressure, opportunity, and noise of both youth baseball and youth softball. He breaks down the myths families fall for, the traps parents accidentally set, how to handle multi-sport decisions, and how he intentionally slowed down Connor's journey instead of chasing exposure.

You'll learn why early recruiting hurt more than it helped, why parents should stop forcing sports onto kids, why the college sports landscape has changed for the worse, and how to protect your child's love for the game in an era that pushes them to specialize earlier and chase more.

Kevin also shares the real story behind Connor's reclass, his injuries, draft process, the home visits, and how failure shaped who he is. This episode is packed with insights for both softball and baseball families navigating development, recruiting, and the emotional side of youth sports.

Subscribe for weekly college recruiting strategy, baseball development insight, and leadership lessons for parents.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why parents must stop forcing sports — and how to spot true passion • The biggest myth about Division III softball (and why scholarships aren't what you think) • How early specialization hurts athleticism, confidence, and longevity • Why playing too many games and not enough practice is destroying development • The difference between good exposure and harmful overexposure • Why parents must treat each child differently — and why "fair" is not "equal" • What college softball recruiting really looks like behind the scenes • How NIL has changed college sports — and not for the better • Why attitude matters more than talent in the recruiting process • The real story of Connor Griffin's reclass, injury, draft pressure, and development • How home visits work — and why families must set boundaries • The #1 parenting mistake that damages the parent–athlete relationship • Why kids play to please their parents — and how that affects behavior, confidence & burnout

ABOUT KEVIN GRIFFIN

Kevin Griffin is the Head Softball Coach and Associate Athletic Director at Belhaven University. He has coached for over 20 years, developing nationally ranked programs and helping athletes grow on and off the field. He is also the father of MLB's top minor league prospect, Connor Griffin, giving him a rare dual perspective into both youth sports development and the professional scouting world.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He has negotiated historic contracts, represented MVPs and All-Stars, and now delivers weekly insight on development, scouting, and the business of baseball.

CONNECT WITH KEVIN GRIFFIN

Email: kgriffin@bellhaven.edu

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/ YouTube (subscribe for weekly coaching): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#YouthBaseball #TravelSoftball #TravelBaseball

The Truth About Baseball Development (According To MLB Scouts) Dec 10, 2025

Most travel ball parents focus on the wrong things — more reps, more tournaments, more lessons, more mechanics, more "fixes." But in this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, MLB agent Matt Hannaford brings together two of baseball's most respected insiders to reveal what actually develops a player: • Hugh Quattlebaum — former MLB hitting coach, coordinator, and father of three boys in the youth baseball world • Gus Quattlebaum — Vice President of Scouting Development & Integration for the Boston Red Sox

Together, they break down the essential (and often misunderstood) ingredients that help players become confident, adaptable, self-aware competitors — not just hitters with pretty mechanics. Hugh shares lessons from his upcoming book on youth development, while Gus provides rare insight into how scouts truly evaluate players, what stands out, and what hurts a young athlete's projection.

You'll learn why players should fail more, why aggression beats perfection, why kids must learn to coach themselves, and why "zoo tiger" development is holding thousands of players back.

If you're a parent, coach, or player navigating travel baseball today, this is the conversation you never get — directly from the people who work with elite athletes at the highest levels of the game.

Subscribe for weekly MLB development tools, scouting insight, and strategy for baseball families.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why "control the controllables" is the foundation of great development • The difference between conditional vs. unconditional confidence • Why aggression is a competitive advantage — and passivity kills performance • How parents unintentionally create fear, confusion, and hesitation • The power of game-like reps vs. traditional drills • How major league teams train hitters to prepare for real in-game chaos • What scouts actually look for: decision-making, adjustments, process • How to teach players to coach themselves — and why it matters long-term • Why individualization beats one-size-fits-all mechanics every time • The dangers of TikTok hitting trends & constant tinkering • How to design practice with the end in mind • What it really means to "love the game more at 18 than at 8"

ABOUT GUS QUATTLEBAUM

Vice President, Scouting Development & Integration — Boston Red Sox Gus oversees professional scouting, integration, and evaluation strategy for the Red Sox after decades in MLB scouting across multiple organizations. His career includes influential roles with the Yankees, Orioles, Expos, and Red Sox, shaping amateur, pro, and international scouting systems. He is known for his process-driven approach, holistic evaluation, and deep expertise in player projection.

ABOUT HUGH QUATTLEBAUM

Professional Hitting Coach Hugh has coached hitters at every level of professional baseball — including serving as Major League Hitting Coach for the New York Mets and Assistant Hitting Coach for the Atlanta Braves. He has led hitting development departments, coordinated minor league systems, and built player plans for elite hitters. As a father of three young ballplayers, Hugh brings a unique blend of big-league expertise and real-world youth baseball experience.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He has negotiated historic contracts, represented MVPs and All-Stars, and now delivers weekly insights on development, scouting, and the business of baseball.

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/ YouTube (subscribe for weekly coaching): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#YouthBaseball #TravelBall #PlayerDevelopment #MLBScouting #HittingCoach #BaseballParents #MostValuableAgent #BaseballMindset #BaseballTraining #ScoutingInsight

3 Steps To Fix the Parent-Player Relationship In Youth Baseball Dec 08, 2025

Every parent watching their son strike out in the bottom of the ninth has felt that surge of frustration — not because of the strikeout itself, but because of the unspoken expectations they carry. Expectations about effort. About performance. About gratitude. About results.

But here's the problem: most parents never say these expectations out loud — and because of that, players don't know the rules, don't know the standards, and don't know how to win. The result? Disappointment for parents, defensiveness for players, and a breakdown in trust that lasts far beyond a single tournament.

In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, MLB agent Matt Hannaford breaks down one of the most important — yet rarely discussed — principles in travel baseball: the difference between expectations and agreements. You'll learn why silent expectations sabotage performance, erode motivation, and create resentment…and how simple parent–player agreements can transform your son's growth, your relationship, and his entire baseball experience.

Matt gives you scripts, real examples, and a step-by-step process to start having collaborative, empowering conversations with your son — conversations that build ownership, confidence, and commitment.

If you've ever wondered why your son "doesn't seem to care," why you get frustrated so often, or why baseball feels more stressful than it should…this episode is the reset button your family needs.

Subscribe for weekly MLB development, travel ball strategy, and leadership tools for baseball families.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• The real difference between an expectation and an agreement • Why unspoken expectations create frustration, defensiveness & poor performance • What "leadership failure" looks like in a parent–player relationship • The exact conversation to start having with your son (word-for-word) • How agreements increase ownership, motivation, and on-field results • Why agreements work in baseball, business, and high-performance environments • How to set roles, responsibilities, and timelines that actually stick • How to build trust, improve communication, and create a healthier baseball journey

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year veteran MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He's represented MVPs, negotiated historic contracts, and guided families through every step of the baseball journey — from tee ball to the Major Leagues. Through The Most Valuable Agent, Matt gives parents the honest, strategic insight they need to support their son's development, performance, and long-term future in baseball.

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/ YouTube (weekly coaching & breakdowns): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#TravelBall #YouthBaseball #BaseballParents #PlayerDevelopment #BaseballMindset #MostValuableAgent #ParentCoaching #BaseballLeadership #BaseballJourney #YouthSportsParenting

Choosing The RIGHT Travel Baseball Team - What You Need To Consider Dec 01, 2025

Every travel team promises "elite competition," "national exposure," and "top-tier development." But when you're the parent making decisions, the real questions are much simpler — and far more important: What actually serves my son's long-term future? What protects our family's time, budget, and sanity?

In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, MLB agent Matt Hannaford breaks down the four essential questions every baseball parent must ask before choosing a travel team. You'll learn how to evaluate a program's philosophy, how to separate hype from real development, how to avoid the exposure trap that hurts young players, and how to make sure your son is coached by the right person — not just the organization's most famous name.

If your family is debating whether to stay, leave, or join a new team… this episode will give you the clarity and strategy you've been missing.

Subscribe for weekly guidance on navigating the business of baseball with clarity, truth, and strategy.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why travel coaches are recruiting you just as much as your son • How to identify the real reason you're looking for a new team • The #1 mistake families make when chasing "exposure" too early • Why development—not showcases—matters before age 16 • How to assess your son's physical, skill, and mental readiness • What a realistic travel baseball budget actually looks like • How to talk to an organization honestly about your financial limits • Why your son's actual coach matters more than the program's brand • The four non-negotiable questions every parent must ask before committing

THE FOUR QUESTIONS EVERY TRAVEL BASEBALL PARENT MUST ASK

Why are we looking for a new team? Understand what went wrong or what you truly need.
Where is my son developmentally? Development first (≤15). Exposure later (≥16).
What is our actual budget and sustainable schedule? Be honest. Protect your time, energy, and finances.
Who will coach my son week-to-week? The coach matters more than the organization's name.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He has represented Hall of Famers, negotiated landmark contracts, and now helps families navigate the development and business of baseball with clarity, honesty, and strategy.

CONNECT WITH MATT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/ YouTube (subscribe!): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #MostValuableAgent #PlayerDevelopment #TravelBallTruths #YouthBaseball #BaseballExposure #BaseballRecruiting

What Players REALLY Keep: The Shocking Truth About MLB Taxes & NIL Money Nov 26, 2025

Most baseball parents think only about signing bonuses, NIL money, and the path to the pros — but this episode of The Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford pulls you inside the real tax strategy, financial planning, and hidden money traps that shape a player's baseball career long before the big leagues.

Former pro player and CPA Steven CASERES breaks down the real financial side of baseball development — from how players are actually paid in the minor leagues, to why state taxes can quietly take six figures out of a signing bonus, to the truth about NIL money and whether young athletes should really form an LLC.

You'll learn why two players with the same signing bonus can take home dramatically different amounts depending on residency, what families must know before draft day, how MLB teams decide where to "source" payments, and why Shohei Ohtani's contract changed the landscape forever.

If you've ever wondered how money really works in baseball — behind the contracts, behind the taxes, behind the scenes — this conversation gives you the complete playbook parents never get.

Subscribe for weekly MLB draft strategy and baseball development insights.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• How MLB teams actually tax and split signing bonuses • Why residency and domicile can change a player's take-home by six figures • How to protect your signing bonus from high-tax states • What NIL players must know before forming an LLC • Why Ohtani's contract was a tax masterpiece — and the loophole it used • How minor league salary, duty days, and jock taxes really work • The biggest tax mistakes families make during the draft • What documents parents must keep to stay financially organized

ABOUT STEVEN CASERES

Steven Caseres is a former professional baseball player turned CPA for elite athletes. He specializes in MLB tax strategy, residency planning, NIL structuring, and long-term financial efficiency for players navigating the draft, minor leagues, and major league compensation systems.

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year veteran MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He has represented Hall of Famers, negotiated blockbuster contracts, and now delivers weekly insights on the mindset, development pathway, and business of elite baseball.

CONNECT WITH MATT HANNAFORD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/ Website: https://www.aligndsports.com/YouTube (subscribe for weekly coaching): https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

CONNECT WITH STEVEN CASERES

Contact: steven@gpccpas.com

#MLBDraft #BaseballTaxes #NILMoney #SigningBonus #BaseballParents #CPAForAthletes #MostValuableAgent #PlayerDevelopment #BaseballBusiness

MLB GM Secrets: The Part They Don't Share with Fans Nov 19, 2025

Most parents only see the rankings, the showcase stats, and the hype — but this episode of The Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford pulls you inside the real world of MLB draft strategy, where decisions are made long before a player ever hears their name called. Former Minnesota Twins GM Thad Levine reveals what truly drives baseball scouting insights today, from how MLB teams evaluate players beyond raw tools to why character, adaptability, and leadership quietly determine careers. You'll hear how clubs weigh high school vs. college talent, why certain pitchers carry heavy risk profiles, and how "force multipliers" — not just stars — shape long-term success. Thad breaks down how front offices think, how organizations develop prospects, and what separates players who survive the grind from those who stall out. If you've ever wondered how the baseball development pathway really works behind closed doors, this conversation exposes the hidden criteria that actually move players up draft boards.

Subscribe for weekly MLB draft strategy and baseball development insights.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

MLB draft strategy breakdowns teams use to separate elite prospects
Baseball scouting insights that go far beyond tools or showcase numbers
How MLB teams evaluate players on makeup, adaptability, and character
Risk profiles of high school vs. college players, especially pitching
Why leadership, habits, and mindset drive long-term player development
How the baseball development pathway really works inside MLB organizations

Connect with Matt Hannaford:

https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

https://www.aligndsports.com/

Subscribe for weekly coaching on the mindset of baseball https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

#MLBDraft #ThadLevine #BaseballScouting #PlayerDevelopment #MLBInsights #BaseballParents #MostValuableAgent

The Most Dangerous Part of the Agent Business Nov 17, 2025

When families judge an agent, they usually see the polished surface—deals, clients, and big-name agencies. But this episode drags you beneath the waterline, where the real danger lies.

In a story most baseball families never hear, you'll learn how a certified MLB agent secretly fed strategy and sensitive information to league officials during the chaotic 2020 COVID negotiations, working directly against the players he was supposed to protect.

The leaked texts, the frustration toward the players, and the attempts to undermine union leadership reveal a level of disloyalty that should force every parent to rethink what "representation" really means. This scandal isn't an anomaly; it's a warning about what happens when ambition and access outrank sports agent integrity. By the end, you'll walk away with the single most important question every family must ask before trusting an agent with their son's future.

Subscribe for weekly sports agent integrity strategies.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Sports agent integrity breakdowns that happen behind closed doors
How agents can quietly undermine player interests without families ever knowing
What the MLB informant scandal reveals about hidden incentives
How to evaluate an agent's true motives
The one question that determines whether you can trust an agent

Connect with Matt Hannaford:

https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

https://www.aligndsports.com/

Subscribe for weekly coaching on the mindset of baseball https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

How Setbacks Shape Champions: The Untold Side of Making It to the Big Leagues Nov 12, 2025

From back-to-back strikeouts to a historic MLB debut, Houston Astros outfielder Zach Cole's story is a masterclass in resilience, identity, and unwavering belief. In this episode, he reveals how shifting from chasing approval to living with purpose helped him hit a home run on his very first pitch in the majors.

🧠 Subscribe for weekly mindset transformation stories from elite athletes.

💬 What was your biggest takeaway? Drop it in the comments 👇

What You'll Learn:

Turning failure into fuel: Zach's mindset shift after a rough AA finish
From "baseball player" to a man with purpose: redefining identity
The power of faith and surrender in high-performance sports
Why mentorship and self-talk shape your breakthrough moments
Tools to mentally survive—and thrive—in the minor leagues

Meet Matt Hannaford Matt Hannaford is a 25-year veteran MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He's represented Hall of Famers, negotiated blockbuster contracts, and now shares his wisdom weekly on The Most Valuable Agent. Connect with Matt Hannaford:

https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

https://www.aligndsports.com/

Subscribe for weekly coaching on the mindset of baseball https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent #MindsetTips #BaseballMotivation #houstonastros

The Dream That Predicted My World Series Win - MLB's Brian Wilson Nov 06, 2025

When the roar of the crowd fades, what remains? Former MLB All-Star closer Brian Wilson joins Matt to talk about life after baseball, mental health, and rediscovering purpose. Subscribe for weekly coaching on baseball mindset and youth development.

In this deep, vulnerable conversation, Brian reveals why performance doesn't define peace—and why real strength begins when the spotlight ends.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

MLB Pressure Mindset: What it truly takes to handle the 9th inning in a World Series.
From Fame to Faith: How Brian Wilson found peace after baseball—and why it matters more than rings. Athlete Identity Crisis: Why so many pros struggle after retirement and how to prepare now. Youth Baseball Wake-Up Call: The hidden emotional costs of early specialization and pressure.
Grace Over Grind: Why God's grace, not grit alone, carried Brian through his career.

Whether you're a parent of a young athlete or someone chasing the big leagues, this episode is a must-listen for those seeking meaning beyond medals.

CALL TO ACTION (CTA)

Subscribe for weekly coaching on baseball mindset and purpose.
💬 Mid-episode CTA: Comment your biggest takeaway or question for Brian below 👇
🎯 Final CTA: Explore the mindset & faith playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYOURPLAYLIST

LINKS & RESOURCES

Previous episode on mental game and identity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=example
Related episode: How Pros Stay Grounded Amid Fame: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=example2

BIO Brian Wilson is a former MLB All-Star closer, World Series champion, and now a speaker on faith, mental health, and finding purpose beyond performance.

#MVAExperience #BrianWilsonBaseball #FaithAfterBaseball

The #1 Mistake Travel Ball Parents Make Nov 03, 2025

Are you searching for the perfect travel team, coach, or showcase? The truth might hit harder than a 95mph fastball. Subscribe for weekly coaching on becoming your son's best baseball advocate.

Many baseball parents fall into the same trap, believing that success lies somewhere out there: in the next program, the next expert, the next big opportunity. But in this heartfelt solo episode, Matt reveals what truly drives a young athlete's development—and it's closer to home than you think.

With over 25 years of experience representing All-Stars, MVPs, and top draft picks, Matt pulls back the curtain on the single biggest mistake families make in youth baseball: outsourcing their power. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, confused, or anxious about your child's future in this $40 billion travel ball ecosystem, this episode is your wake-up call.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

Why "linear thinking" sabotages your son's growth in travel baseball
How to become the CEO of your family's baseball plan—and why it matters
What really makes advice valuable (Hint: it's not just who gives it)
How to filter training, coaching, and team choices through your family's values
The internal shift parents must make to lead with clarity and confidence

This episode isn't just a mindset shift—it's a framework to help you analyze, strategize, and move forward with purpose. Don't miss the real-world analogy Matt shares around the MLB draft—it changes everything.

CALL TO ACTION 🔔 Subscribe for weekly coaching on becoming your son's best baseball advocate. 💬 Comment your biggest challenge as a baseball parent below 👇

The Real Game Behind the Game: Sports Agent Life, Marriage, and Fulfillment Oct 29, 2025

What does it really take to succeed as a sports agent? Matt Hannaford shares his 25-year journey in this powerful behind-the-scenes episode. Subscribe for weekly coaching on how to build a career in sports

From rookie to seasoned agent, from massive MLB deals to deeply personal wins—Matt opens up about the life, lessons, and legacy behind building Aligned Sports. Interviewed by his wife and branding expert, Tara Hannaford, this heartfelt conversation reveals the untold stories behind success, burnout, and the nuance of guiding top-tier athletes. If you've ever wondered what it's really like behind the agent desk, this is the episode.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

How to become a sports agent – the realities beyond TV glamor and hype. Why patience outperforms ambition – and how Matt built trust over 10,000 hours.
Major mistakes families make in youth baseball – and how to avoid them early. What success means after 25 years – redefining impact, integrity, and purpose.
How to thrive through high-stakes pressure – the mindset that sustains long-term careers.

👋 COMMENT YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY BELOW 👇 Was it about career longevity, youth sports, or parenting perspective?

Subscribe for building a career in sports: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year veteran MLB agent and founder of Aligned Sports. He's represented Hall of Famers, negotiated blockbuster contracts, and now shares his wisdom weekly on The Most Valuable Agent. Tara Hannaford is a seasoned branding strategist, creative executive, and co-founder of multiple CPG brands.

#mostvaluableagent #sportsagentlife #youthbaseballadvice

The Ultimate Travel Baseball Guide (Part 2): The Hidden Truth of Travel Baseball Oct 22, 2025

You'll hear from a father who raised a first-round draft pick after his son's battle with cancer, a Division I head coach redefining toughness and leadership, an MLB All-Star revealing the truth behind the pro grind, and a mindset expert helping parents protect their child's confidence and love for the game. Each voice offers a different angle, but together they deliver one powerful message: in travel baseball, the real win isn't exposure- it's who your child becomes along the way.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

Why skills and stats mean nothing without self-awareness and belief.
How parents can listen, support, and guide without adding pressure.
What MLB players and coaches say separates the few who make it from everyone else.
Why culture, values, and brotherhood define true programs -not exposure or trophies.
How to help your child love the game for life, even when the system tries to take that away.

Whether you're a coach, player, or parent, these conversations will change how you see travel baseball- and what it really means to "make it."

💬Comment your biggest challenge in travel baseball below 👇 🔔 Subscribe for weekly coaching on how to win in youth baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@MostValuableAgent 📢 Share this episode with a teammate, coach, or parent who needs this message.

🎧 More powerful episodes: ➡️ Craig Holman on Development Over Exposure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyz456

➡️ TJ Bruce on Building Men, Not Just Players: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44mjEDRc5S4

➡️ Derek Norris on the Mental Side of Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Cl33Exfb3M

➡️How Parenting Limits Future Big Leaguers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6opkFoZD-sY

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD Matt Hannaford is a 25-year veteran MLB agent who's represented MVPs, All-Stars, and first-round draft picks. Through the Most Valuable Agent podcast, he helps parents and players cut through the noise and focus on what really works.

#MostValuableAgent #TravelBaseballAdvice #YouthSportsParenting

How Parents Can Make Smart Decisions in The Chaos of Travel Baseball Oct 20, 2025

What if the real game-changer in travel baseball isn't your player's swing-but your decisions as a parent? In this solo episode, Matt breaks down what he refers to as The Precision Process, a behavioral-psychology-based framework designed to help travel baseball families make better, calmer, and more confident choices in a chaotic environment.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the nonstop pressure of tournaments, recruiting, and exposure events, this episode will show you how to filter the noise, think clearly, and align every decision with your family's long-term goals.

You'll learn how to stop reacting emotionally to "urgent" choices and instead make strategic, values-driven the same kind elite CEOs and investors use, but adapted for the world of youth sports.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

The Precision Process: a 6-step system to make high-quality decisions under pressure
How to identify if you're in a stable, complicated, or chaotic environment—and why that matters
The truth about emotional vs. logical decision-making in travel baseball
How to create your family's North Star statement to filter opportunities
The 3 biggest cognitive biases that sabotage baseball parents—and how to overcome them
Why clarity, not control, is the key to thriving in travel baseball
How to build a decision database that helps you avoid repeating costly mistakes

Matt breaks down real-world examples from families navigating tournaments, showcases, and college recruiting. You'll discover how to use tools like the 3x3 Clarity Grid to bring calm, structure, and precision to every choice-and how to measure progress through regular debrief loops that keep your family aligned and less stressed.

If you've ever caught yourself making reactive, fear-based decisions (FOMO, comparison, sunk cost), this episode will hit home. By the end, you'll walk away with a repeatable decision-making framework to replace chaos with confidence.

CALL TO ACTION:

If this episode brought you clarity, share it with another baseball parent feeling overwhelmed by the chaos.

Subscribe for weekly episodes on mindset, leadership, and decision-making in travel baseball.
Comment your biggest decision-making challenge below.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

— Follow the MVA Podcast

#TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #YouthSportsMindset #DecisionMaking #BaseballDevelopment #ParentLeadership #BaseballPodcast #MVA

Travel Baseball Kids Need to Play, Fail, and Get Better Oct 15, 2025

What if the real game isn't played on the field, but at home, in the way we raise, support, and speak to our kids? In this heartfelt episode, Craig Holman, former pro player and father of two elite athletes, joins Matt Antonelli to share the untold truth about youth and travel baseball.

From watching his son Luke battle childhood cancer to seeing him become one of the nation's top prospects, Craig reveals how failure, faith, and love shaped both his family and his coaching philosophy. This isn't just about baseball -it's about building resilient, grounded humans in a culture obsessed with wins and exposure.

Whether you're a parent, coach, or young athlete, this episode will change how you see youth sports and what truly defines success.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

Why "more exposure" isn't the same as development
The single most powerful thing parents can say to their kids
How to build confidence without pressure or comparison
Why failure and struggle are essential for long-term success
The life-changing difference between listening to your kids vs. for your kids
How perspective-not performance-shapes greatness

Craig shares unforgettable stories of parenting through adversity- including his son Luke's fight with cancer, his daughter's final at-bat, and how the "tennis ball moment" changed his understanding of effort forever. His insights remind us that the greatest wins happen off the field and that the true job of a parent-coach is to nurture purpose, not pressure.

CALL TO ACTION:

Subscribe for weekly coaching and real conversations about the mental, emotional, and developmental side of baseball.

Comment below: What's the biggest lesson baseball has taught your family?

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Follow the MVA Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@MostValuableAgent

Bear Bryant's Prayer: "This is the beginning of a new day…"

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD

Matt Hannaford is a 25-year veteran MLB agent who's represented MVPs, All-Stars, and first-round draft picks. Through the Most Valuable Agent podcast, he helps parents and players cut through the noise and focus on what really works.

#YouthBaseball #BaseballParenting #CraigHolman #MVA #SportsParenting #AthleteMindset #BaseballDevelopment

Athletic Ability Isn't Enough. Who Are You When Performance Fails? Oct 13, 2025

What happens when the hardest opponent you'll ever face isn't standing in the other dugout—but lives inside your own head? In this solo episode, Matt breaks down the silent battle every athlete faces: the illusion of control. He unpacks why your identity can't be built on performance, what happens when effort stops working, and how true freedom begins when you stop trying to be your own source.

Through powerful reflection and personal insight, Matt shares how athletes often grip tighter when things start to slip, chasing certainty through training, diet, or routine. But lasting peace—both in life and in baseball—doesn't come from control; it comes from stability. You'll hear how players who perform from identity, not for it, compete freer, lead stronger, and play with conviction instead of fear.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

The illusion of control — why it feels powerful until it breaks
How to perform from identity instead of for validation
Why effort alone can't sustain confidence forever
The mental shift that separates players who last from those who burn out
A practical framework for letting go without losing your edge

Matt challenges listeners to examine what they're still trying to control—and how those same things might be controlling them. By redefining success beyond stats and status, this episode helps players rediscover who they truly are, no matter what the scoreboard says.

CALL TO ACTION:

Subscribe for weekly coaching on the mindset of baseball. Drop a comment sharing what part of the game you're still trying to control.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent (Official Site)
Follow Matt on Instagram:instagram.com/mfhannaford

#BaseballMindset #MentalGameBaseball #AthleteIdentity #PerformanceMindset #LetGoPlayFree

Train Your Brain for the Big Leagues: Mastering Mental Execution in Travel Baseball Oct 08, 2025

What if your biggest opponent isn't across the field but inside your mind? In this powerful episode, mental performance advisor Danielle Martin shares how mastering the mental game in baseball can transform not just your performance but your life. Subscribe for weekly coaching on the mental side of baseball – you won't want to miss this.

Danielle, founder of True Mindset, brings decades of experience working with elite athletes to build custom mental performance plans that go far beyond sports psychology. Through a mix of neuroscience, breath work, and fighter-inspired philosophy, she equips players with real-world tools to navigate pressure, failure, and expectation at the highest levels of the game.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

Mental performance strategies for athletes at every level
How to reset after failure with routines that build resilience
The difference between help vs. support – and why language matters
Why being a multi-sport athlete matters for mental adaptability
How elite players train mindset like muscle with actionable tools

Danielle shares her personal story of surviving a near-fatal injury caused by a fake chiropractor and how her own mental performance training saved her life. From top amateur surfer to mental coach for MLB prospects, she details how identity, fear, and emotional regulation all shape success on and off the field. You'll discover how a fighter's mindset and clear job execution framework can help athletes reclaim control, especially in a system that treats them like products.

CALL TO ACTION:

Subscribe for weekly coaching on the mental game of baseball. Comment your biggest mindset challenge below

LINKS & RESOURCES:

https://truemindset.com (Danielle's work)

https://www.abca.org (American Baseball Coaches Association)

#TrueMindset #MentalGameBaseball #AthleteMindset

Stop Gambling With Your Kid's Future Oct 06, 2025

Travel baseball isn't a slot machine. If you're pouring time and money into tournaments hoping for exposure, this episode is your wake-up call.

Subscribe for weekly coaching on baseball development and long-term success.

Parents of youth athletes are stuck in a cycle: more showcases, more expenses, more stress. But what if the real path to success isn't about being seen — it's about being ready when it counts?

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

Why travel baseball feels like a casino and how to escape the emotional rollercoaster
The 3 REAL keys to baseball success
How early exposure can backfire and damage long-term opportunities
The hidden power of patience and one first-rounder's story that proves it
How to build your son's confidence, not just his schedule without killing his love for the game

If you've ever asked, "Are we doing enough?" this episode will reframe your entire approach — and help you make smarter, saner decisions for your son's future in baseball.

Hear Matt's personal story, a pro insider's advice, and real-world examples of what actually works.

💬 Comment your biggest challenge in travel baseball below 👇 🔔 Subscribe for weekly coaching on how to win in youth baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@MostValuableAgent 📢 Share this episode with a teammate, coach, or parent who needs this message.

🎧 More powerful episodes: ➡️ How Early Exposure Hurts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abc123 ➡️ Craig Holman on Development Over Exposure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyz456

ABOUT MATT HANNAFORD Matt Hannaford is a 25-year MLB agent veteran who's represented MVPs, All-Stars, and first-round draft picks. Through the Most Valuable Agent podcast, he helps parents and players cut through the noise and focus on what really works.

#MostValuableAgent #TravelBaseballAdvice #YouthSportsParenting

College Baseball Coaches: How to Develop Men, Not Just Athletes Oct 01, 2025

In this episode, Matt sits down with Long Beach State Head Baseball Coach TJ Bruce for an honest and powerful conversation about coaching, parenting, and what true success really looks like.

TJ shares his journey from playing and coaching at Long Beach, to UCLA, Nevada, TCU, and now leading the Dirtbags. But this conversation goes deeper than baseball—it's about raising men of integrity, balancing faith and career, and why player development is more than just wins and losses.

We dive into the challenges of today's college baseball world—the transfer portal, NIL, year-round travel ball—and how parents and players can focus on what really matters. From instilling discipline and accountability, to building a culture rooted in toughness, brotherhood, and selflessness, Coach Bruce reveals the values that define Long Beach State Baseball.

If you're a parent, athlete, coach, or fan of the game, this episode will inspire you to rethink success—on and off the field.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why coaching is about developing men, not just players
The challenges of NIL, the transfer portal & today's college baseball landscape
Parenting lessons: multi-sport athletes, discipline, and accountability
The "Dirtbag Way" and building culture at Long Beach State
Balancing faith, family, and career in a results-driven world
Why success goes beyond stats, rings, and draft picks

📌 Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches, players, and leaders in baseball.

Alignd Sports: https://www.aligndsports.com/

📷 Follow on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lbdirtbags

https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

#CollegeBaseball #LongBeachState #TJBruce #BaseballPodcast #PlayerDevelopment

Top 5 Traits Travel Ball Players Must Have Sep 29, 2025

Want to know the five real traits of big league cool for travel ball players? ⚾ Learn how to earn respect and play with purpose. Subscribe now!

In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent Podcast, host Matt Hannaford shares what truly sets big leaguers apart—and it's not chains, bat flips, or walk-up songs. These five traits reveal how young players can gain the respect of teammates, coaches, scouts, and even opponents.

What You'll Learn

The difference between confidence and ego
How to enjoy the game without losing focus
Why chasing every new drill won't make you better
The value of curiosity and asking questions
How mastering fundamentals makes tough plays look effortless

Drawing on decades inside MLB clubhouses, Matt explains how the pros who are admired most aren't the flashiest - they're the ones teammates trust and coaches rely on. Each trait offers a practical "pro tip" that travel ball players can apply immediately, whether it's body language on the field, how to approach practice, or knowing when to stick with what works.

Parents will gain a fresh perspective on what "cool" really looks like at the next level, while players will leave with a roadmap for becoming the type of athlete scouts remember.

If this episode hit home, subscribe on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more behind-the-scenes insights on baseball and player development. Share which trait you're building this season in the comments!

Links & Resources

Follow Matt Hannaford: www.instagram.com/mfhannaford

Follow Alignd Sports: www.instagram.com/aligndsports

#TravelBall #BigLeagueCool #BaseballDevelopment #YouthBaseball

The Dark Side of NIL Contracts: How Athletes Get Trapped Sep 24, 2025

On this episode of the Most Valuable Agent Podcast, Matt Hannaford brings on top sports attorney Ben Levine, who represents high-profile athletes and entertainers. Together, they break down the fast-changing NIL landscape and explain what parents, players, and advisors need to know before signing any deal.

From the Reggie Bush and Jameis Winston controversies to today's multimillion-dollar NIL contracts, Matt and Ben highlight how quickly the game has changed—and how dangerous it can be to overlook the fine print. They also share practical advice on negotiating leverage, protecting athlete rights, and avoiding one-sided agreements that can impact a player's future.

Whether you're a parent navigating your child's recruiting journey, a student-athlete weighing brand partnerships, or simply curious about the business of college sports, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone in the NIL era.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How the House Settlement is reshaping NIL deals in college sports
Why state-by-state NIL laws can make or break athlete opportunities
Common contract traps (like clawbacks, offsets, and "in perpetuity" clauses)
Why every family should consider legal review before signing
The difference between school revenue-sharing and private NIL brand deals

If you found this valuable, hit Subscribe to the Most Valuable Agent Podcast for more insider episodes on sports, business, and athlete development.

Drop a comment with your NIL questions—we may cover them in a future episode! Links & Resources

Follow Matt Hannaford: www.instagram.com/mfhannaford

Alignd Sports: www.instagram.com/aligndsports

Connect with Ben Levine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belevine/

Hashtags

#MostValuableAgent #NILContracts #SportsLaw #AthleteProtection

Travel Baseball: How Your Son's Response Will Shape His Future Sep 22, 2025

In this solo episode, Matt brings you inside the Perfect Game All-American Classic in San Diego, where he spoke to a room of baseball parents about the truth behind the draft, development, and success in this game.

You'll hear the story of two very different players—one who looked like a sure thing, the other overlooked and doubted. Both were drafted the same year, same organization, same position… but their careers couldn't have been more different.

This isn't just about prospects or draft picks—it's about how players (and parents) respond to the journey, the setbacks, and the storms that come with this game.

If you're a parent navigating travel ball, recruiting, or the draft process, this message will shift the way you look at your role in your son's career.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why draft position doesn't guarantee success in baseball
The difference between talent and the traits scouts really value
How E + R = O (Event + Response = Outcome) shapes every career
The powerful role parents play as the steady lighthouse in their son's journey
How to help your player handle setbacks and turn them into opportunities
The truth about the draft: it's not the finish line—it's just the start

Timestamps

00:00 – Baseball parents and prospects: why this message matters

01:08 – Travel baseball lessons: why it's always about your son, not you

02:18 – Player development story: the tale of two MLB draft prospects

04:35 – Baseball mindset: the Vegas bet exercise on success and failure

06:08 – MLB draft process explained: why draft day isn't the finish line

07:48 – What scouts really look for beyond stats and tools

09:56 – Parents' role in player development: the constant factor

11:07 – The lighthouse analogy: how to guide your son through adversity

12:36 – Key takeaway: the draft is an invitation, not validation

Call to Action

If you found this valuable, hit Subscribe to the Most Valuable Agent Podcast for more insider episodes on sports, business, and athlete development.

Drop a comment with your NIL questions—we may cover them in a future episode!

Links & Resources

Follow Matt Hannaford: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannford

#baseball #MLBdraft #travelbaseball #playerdevelopment #mindset #collegebaseball #youthbaseball

From Travel Ball to Pro Ball: Former All-Star on What Parents Need to Know Sep 17, 2025

From high school stardom to becoming an MLB All-Star, Derek Norris shares the raw truth about the draft process, the grind of the minor leagues, and how catching has evolved. ⚾ Subscribe for more insider baseball stories!

In this episode, former MLB All-Star catcher Derek Norris sits down with Matt to break down his journey through the game. From the emotional rollercoaster of draft day to grinding through rookie ball, Derek opens up about what it really takes to succeed in professional baseball.

He also shares strong opinions on the evolution of catching techniques—from traditional fundamentals to the new knee-drop receiving style—and why he believes many young catchers are being led astray by trends and gadgets instead of focusing on the basics.

For parents and young athletes, Derek's story is both a cautionary tale and a source of inspiration. He talks openly about the role of advisors, the business side of baseball, and the importance of developing mental toughness when everyone around you was once "the best player in their town."

Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this conversation is packed with insights on youth baseball development, the college recruiting process, and how to prepare for the draft. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How Derek Norris went from Kansas high school ball to being drafted by the Washington Nationals.
The behind-the-scenes reality of the MLB draft process. Why catching has changed dramatically in the last decade — and what young players should focus on.
The mental and physical grind of the minor leagues.
Practical advice for parents and youth players navigating showcases and college recruiting.

Call to Action

👉 If you found this episode valuable, hit Subscribe and drop a comment with your biggest takeaway. 👉 Share this with a parent, coach, or young player who needs to hear Derek's story.

Connect with Matt: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannford

Alignd Sports: https://www.instagram.com/aligndsports/

Inside the Draft: A Scouting Director's Message to Travel Ball Parents Sep 15, 2025

What do MLB scouts really look for in players and families? In this episode, Matt Hannaford unpacks one of the most honest scouting director talks ever shared with Perfect Game All-American families. From multi-sport athletes to classroom behavior, in-home visits, and the critical factor of signability, this episode dives into the real conversations scouts have behind the scenes. Matt Hannaford brings an advisor's perspective to help families and players understand how scouts evaluate talent, on and off the field.

If you're a parent, player, or coach preparing for the next 11 months leading up to the MLB Draft, this episode delivers clarity, strategy, and practical tools for navigating one of the most important processes in baseball. What You'll Learn

Why scouts value multi-sport athletes and well-rounded development
How tournament play, Jupiter, and spring games impact evaluations
What scouts look for in classroom behavior, community reputation & professionalism
The truth about in-home visits and family communication
Signability explained—and how families can approach it wisely
The role of pre-draft workouts, the MLB Combine & advisor clarity

📲 Connect with Matt Hannaford:

https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

https://www.aligndsports.com/

Previous Episodes Mentioned:

Michael Garciaparra: https://youtu.be/mheMuyG3IDg
Trevor Haley: https://youtu.be/_fV0WFimwIM
Mike Wagner: https://youtu.be/y2hfBQOB8m4
Alex McClure: https://youtu.be/BRPpUyfkFmE

#MLBDraft #BaseballParents #PlayerDevelopment #PerfectGame #MLBScouting #MostValuableAgentPodcast #BaseballAdvice #MLBCombine

SEC Recruiting Myths Busted: What Matters To A College Baseball Coach Sep 10, 2025

In this episode Matt sits down with Brock Bennett, Recruiting Coordinator at the University of Georgia, to talk about the realities of SEC recruiting, what makes a "Bulldog" player, how families can best navigate the recruiting process, and why honesty and communication are crucial.

Brock shares insights from his playing days at Alabama, his time in professional baseball, and his current role at Georgia—helping families understand what it really takes to compete at the highest level of college baseball.

If you're a player or parent looking to understand the SEC recruiting process, this episode is packed with gold.

Connect with Matt: htt ps://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

Alignd Sports:https://www.instagram.com/aligndsports

Follow Brock Bennett: https://www.instagram.com/br41bennett/

Follow Georgia Baseball: https://instagram.com/baseballuga

#CollegeBaseball #SECBaseball #GeorgiaBulldogs #BaseballRecruiting #MVA #AthleteAdvice #TravelBall #NCAARecruiting

The Dad Effect: How Travel Ball Parenting Limits Future Big Leaguers Sep 03, 2025

In this episode Matt sits down with Johan Martinez-Khalilian to explore a powerful and often overlooked dynamic in youth and professional sports: the role of fathers (and parents) in shaping athletes' journeys.

Through raw stories, personal reflection, and lessons learned from working with elite athletes, this conversation dives into how parents can either empower or unintentionally hold back their children — on and off the field.

👉 Topics we cover in this episode:

How fathers impact their children's athletic development
Why performance-focused parenting can damage relationships
Johan's emotional story of soccer and his dad
Matt's hockey experience and tough love parenting
Tools parents can use to encourage growth and confidence
Why awareness, curiosity, and trust matter most
How to pivot as a parent (even if you feel it's too late)

🔗 Connect with Johan:

🔗 Connect with Matt:

💡 If you found value in this episode, make sure to hit LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations on sports, life, and leadership.

CBA Baseball's Formula for Success: From Travel Ball to the Big Leagues Aug 27, 2025

In this episode, Matt sits down with Jon Paino, longtime coach, teacher, and one of the architects behind CBA Baseball. From starting the program in honor of pioneer Mike Spears, to shaping a culture that develops players on and off the field, Jon shares the lessons that have helped CBA produce 1,400+ college commitments, 185 draft picks, and 23 MLB players (and counting).

💡 This conversation dives deep into:

How Jon pivoted from a sudden end to his playing career into coaching.
The founding story and guiding philosophy behind CBA Baseball.
Why confidence and culture matter more than wins and losses.
Player development success stories, including MLB Draft picks.
What parents need to know about routines, discipline, and supporting their kids.
How Diamond Allegiance is reshaping opportunities with cutting-edge player testing.
The balance between tradition and innovation in today's youth sports.

Whether you're a parent, player, or coach, this episode is packed with insight into what it really takes to grow through the game—and why it's about so much more than baseball.

📺 Subscribe for more conversations on baseball, development, and culture 👍 Like this video if you found it valuable 💬 Comment below: What do you think is the most important factor in developing young athletes?

🔗 Links & Resources:

Matt Hannaford: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

Alignd Sports:https://www.instagram.com/aligndsports

CBA Baseball: https://www.cbabaseball.org/

Follow CBA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbabaseballusa/

One Last Shot At MLB: Anthony Banda's Journey to The World Series Aug 20, 2025

What does it really take to make it in the big leagues and stay there? In this emotional and eye-opening episode, LA Dodgers pitcher and World Series Champion Anthony Banda shares his raw, unfiltered journey through baseball's toughest trials. Subscribe now for more powerful sports stories and lessons!

What You'll Learn:

The truth about life in the minor leagues (it's not what you think)
How Anthony Banda bounced back after Tommy John surgery and nearly quitting
What it's like being traded between 9 MLB teams in 5 years
The mindset shift that changed everything and led to a World Series win
Behind-the-scenes development insights from the Dodgers' coaching staff

The Journey Behind the Jersey (Full Story) In this episode, Anthony Banda opens up about the rollercoaster path from being a late-round draft pick to stepping onto the World Series mound with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Alongside host Matt, Anthony breaks down the brutal realities of minor league pay, the mental toll of Tommy John rehab, and the crushing moments that nearly pushed him to retire.

But instead of walking away, Anthony found purpose in the process and the courage to give it one last go. A cold bullpen session in front of MLB scouts sparked the comeback that no one expected. With support from advanced coaching and the right mindset, Banda transformed into a vital bullpen piece for the Dodgers.

Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a parent navigating youth sports, or a die-hard baseball fan, this episode offers a masterclass in resilience, perspective, and trusting the journey.

🔥 Love this episode? Subscribe for more pro athlete stories & comment your favorite moment!

🔗 Related Links & Resources

Matt Hannaford: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

Alignd Sports: https://www.instagram.com/aligndsports

More Than Travel Ball: Michael Garciaparra's Blueprint for College & Pro Baseball Development Aug 13, 2025

Discover the truth about player development with Michael Garciaparra: former first-round pick, pro scout for the St. Louis Cardinals, and founder of GBG, a college and pro development powerhouse. Subscribe now!

What You'll Learn:

How MLB scouting has changed over the last 20 years
The real value of rankings and how scouts filter hype
Why multi-sport athletes often stand out in baseball
GBG's mission to be a development program, not just a travel team
The "Cardinal Way" approach to makeup, mindset, and resilience

In this episode of Most Valuable Agent, Matt Hannaford sits down with Michael Garciaparra, a name baseball fans know well, but for more than just being Nomar's brother. Michael shares insights from his unique career as a four-sport high school athlete, professional baseball player, MLB scout, and founder of Garcia Parra Baseball Group (GBG). He breaks down why GBG refuses the "travel ball" label, focusing instead on long-term athlete development and college placement.

Michael offers a behind-the-scenes look at scouting, from blocking out the noise of rankings to identifying "separators" that set players apart. He explains the Cardinal Way, the importance of genuine makeup, and why love for the game matters just as much as raw skill. This conversation delivers rare, unfiltered advice for athletes, parents, and coaches navigating the modern baseball landscape.

Love this episode? Hit Subscribe for more insider conversations with MLB scouts, agents, and executives. Drop your questions in the comments we might feature them in a future episode!

Links & Resources: Garcia Parra Baseball Group – https://garciaparrabaseball.com Follow Matt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

Navigating Youth Travel Baseball in 2025 - Truths You Need To Hear Aug 06, 2025

Parents and players, STOP stressing about the travel baseball grind! In this powerful episode, Matt sits down with four insiders: Craig Holman, Andy Burress, Jeff Petty, and Matthew Maniscalco to reveal what really matters when chasing college scholarships and pro dreams. Subscribe now for real talk on youth baseball development and exposure!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The #1 mistake most baseball parents make (and how to avoid it).
How exposure camps and showcases can hurt your chances if you're not ready.
Inside stories from pro players, coaches, and travel ball leaders.
Why development must always come before competition and exposure.
Honest advice on choosing teams, events, and navigating recruiting politics.

Travel ball is a maze for parents and young athletes: expensive tournaments, endless showcases, and coaches promising scholarships. But what if the focus is all wrong? Craig Holman, a former pro player and baseball dad, shares why being a dad first and prioritizing development is the key to long-term success.

Andy Burress reveals how travel organizations expanded nationwide and what families need to know about choosing the right fit. Jeff Petty, founder of one of the first true national travel teams, explains why honesty about talent level can make or break a player's future. And Matthew Maniscalco, a former pro and SEC standout, shares how recruiting has changed—and what really matters when selecting a college.

If you're serious about helping your child succeed without burning out or wasting money, this episode is packed with hard truths, insider wisdom, and actionable steps every baseball family needs.

💬 Love this conversation? Hit subscribe and share this episode with a baseball parent who needs to hear it!

Resources & Links:

Excel Baseball: https://www.instagram.com/excelbaseball/
Canes Baseball: https://www.instagram.com/thecanesbb/
5 Star National: https://www.instagram.com/5starnational/
Craig Holman: https://www.instagram.com/craigholman35/
Matt Hannaford: https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford/

Baseball Parents Ask… I Answer: Honest Advice on Development, Recruiting & the Draft Jul 23, 2025

Struggling to make sense of travel ball, recruiting, and what actually matters? This episode is your guide. Subscribe for weekly real-talk.

What You'll Learn:

How to evaluate costly academies and private coaching
What scouts and college coaches truly care about
Why failure, character, and timing matter more than hype
When to start showcases, hire an advisor, or stay local

Raising a young athlete in today's baseball landscape can feel overwhelming—especially when decisions carry high emotional and financial weight. In this post-2025 Draft Q&A episode of The Most Valuable Agent Podcast, Matt answers questions straight from baseball families navigating the real challenges of development, recruiting, and identity in the game.

Whether you're debating if your 11-year-old should join an elite academy, wondering if skipping multi-sport seasons will hurt recruiting, or navigating the buzz around your son's college commitment or draft potential, this episode offers grounded, honest advice. Matt draws from agent experience, scout conversations, and SEC coach insights to guide you through what really matters: development, timing, and your family's unique values.

💬 Have a question for Matt? Drop a comment or DM!

Subscribe for weekly insights on parenting in competitive baseball.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Travel Ball With a Purpose: How Excel Baseball Academy Does It Different Jul 16, 2025

In this episode of Most Valuable Agent, Matt Hannaford sits down with former pro player and Excel Baseball co-founder Matthew Maniscalso to talk all things youth baseball. From how to choose a travel baseball organization to smart college recruiting tips for travel baseball families, this is the honest conversation every sports parent needs.

They go deep on how to evaluate a travel baseball coach, how to support your kid without burnout, and why balancing travel baseball and family life is more important than ever. Whether you're new to the scene or already in the grind, this episode delivers practical, real-world insights.

Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway—and share with a fellow sports parent! Subscribe for more athlete-first conversations with Matt Hannaford.

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Excel Baseball: @excelbaseball

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Inside the MLB Combine: What Scouts Really Look For with Trevor Haley Jul 09, 2025

Ever wonder what scouts actually think during the MLB Draft Combine? Former MLB scout Trevor Haley reveals insider perspectives that could change how families, players, and advisors approach the draft. If you're navigating the world of amateur baseball, this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe now and prepare smarter!

What You'll Learn:

What happens behind the scenes at the MLB Combine
How scouts prepare and evaluate top 350 prospects
Why interviews can matter more than on-field performance
How players and families should handle pre-draft phone calls
The importance of showing curiosity and authenticity in team meetings

In this powerhouse episode, host Matt Hannaford sits down with former MLB scout Trevor Haley to demystify the high-stakes world of the MLB Draft Combine. They break down what organizations are really looking for—and it's not just spin rate and exit velocity. Trevor explains how interviews can become game-changers, sometimes even more impactful than on-field performance. Learn how meetings are structured, who players will face, and what kind of questions to expect.

You'll also hear crucial advice for families and players: how to approach decision-making, what kind of impression really counts, and why being yourself can be your strongest asset. This isn't just about getting drafted—it's about being prepared for a big-league future. The conversation also dives into post-combine preparations, draft day chaos, and how signability plays a pivotal role.

Whether you're a player, parent, or advisor, this episode provides an unfiltered look at the nuances of baseball's most scrutinized stage. It's about more than tools—it's about mindset, maturity, and making the right impression when it counts most.

Enjoyed the behind-the-scenes insights? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode! Got draft questions? Drop them in the comments.

💥Loved this episode? Don't miss the next one. Subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app for weekly insider access to the minds behind the game.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

450 MLB Draft Picks: Inside the Canes Baseball Dynasty Jul 02, 2025

Have you ever faced that crossroads—losing your competitive edge but gaining a higher calling in the game you love? In this episode, Jeff Petty shares how an average college player found purpose as a coach and built one of the nation's top travel baseball programs.

What You'll Learn

How to shift from playing to coaching with purpose
Why truth-telling in evaluations is key for athlete development
How elite travel programs prepare players mentally and physically
What coaches and college scouts truly look for in players
Balancing roles, failure, and obsession on the path to the big leagues

From the outset, Jeff unpacks his journey—from being a strong but not standout high school player to playing Division II baseball, where he realized professional play wasn't in his future. That moment became his life's pivot: "I knew there was no world where I wasn't in baseball—I loved it too much," he explains. Early on, Jeff committed to coaching, driven by passion and the mentorship of coaches at UNC Pembroke.

Fast-forward to 2005, when Jeff co-founded Cane's Baseball: a revolutionary travel program that went national in pursuit of elite prospects. By venturing beyond regional borders and partnering with brands like EvoShield, Jeff expanded his network, built credibility, and now boasts over 40 MLB draft picks and 4,000+ college scholarship athletes.

One of the most compelling insights Jeff shares is Cane's truth-first evaluation process. "If you can't handle someone telling you the truth, we won't take you," he says, highlighting that it's not about prestige, but performance and honest communication. This ethos empowers kids to understand their true ceiling and how to reach it—whether that lands them in Division I, II, or D3 programs, junior colleges, or pro leagues.

Jeff and Matt dive deeper into the player-coach-parent dynamic, emphasizing role clarity and development over superficial exposure. Preparation isn't just on the field—it's mental. Elite programs treat athletes like professionals: using early scrimmages, strength coaches, iPad communication systems, and detailed preparation routines. Their goal? Make failure a safe learning environment so players are dialed in when it counts.

They also address character—team-first mentality versus selfishness—as a non-negotiable trait. College coaches don't just want talent; they want humility, resilience, and accountability. Jeff's mantra for players: ask hard questions of your coaches. Know who's evaluating you. Know the commitment expectations. Own your path.

This episode is a masterclass in elite youth baseball culture—combining storytelling, strategic insight, and practical advice for players, parents, and coaches alike.

Loved Jeff's passion for honest player development? Be sure to subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment on what resonated most—"truth evaluation" or "performance preparation"? Share this video with a teammate or coach who could benefit!

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Jeff Petty – CEO and Head Coach at Cane's Baseball, one of the country's leading travel organizations. With over two decades of coaching and mentorship, Jeff has guided more than 4,000 players to college baseball and helped over 40 athletes reach the MLB draft.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Canes Baseball: @thecanesbb

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

How Baseball Cards Build Early-Career Equity: What Baseball Families Should Know Jun 25, 2025

Ever wonder how baseball players get their own trading cards? What makes a rookie card valuable—or even collectible at all?

In this episode, Matt sits down with Kevin Eger, VP of Athlete Partnerships at Fanatics Collectibles (Topps), to pull back the curtain on the trading card industry. Subscribe and explore the business behind the cardboard!

What You'll Learn:

How athletes get selected for trading cards
What makes a rookie card officially a "rookie"
The behind-the-scenes timeline from draft day to card release
Why autographs and "on-card" signatures matter
How NIL and social media are reshaping sports collectibles
Tips for players and families navigating the evolving card space

Trading cards have been part of childhood for generations—but the business behind them is anything but child's play. Kevin Eger, a key player at Fanatics (Topps), gives us a rare look inside how athletes—from MLB stars to college prospects—become collectible icons.

Kevin shares how he started his career as a baseball editor, choosing which players appeared on cards and what images represented them. Now, he manages partnerships with athletes and agents, coordinating deals that range from autograph signings to storytelling content and social media activations. It's about more than cardboard—it's about crafting legacy and connecting athletes with fans.

Parents of rising stars will also find value here: with the rise of NIL deals and social influence, players can build personal brands earlier than ever. But for Topps, the journey usually begins with the MLB draft—then flows through the minor leagues, rookie cards, and eventually, superstar status.

Enjoyed this insider peek at the trading card world? Subscribe now, leave a review, and share this episode with a baseball fan or aspiring pro in your life!

Learn more: https://fanatics.com

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The MLB Star Nobody Saw Coming: Mauricio Dubón's Underdog Story Jun 18, 2025

Mauricio Dubón's Underdog Journey to the Big Leagues

They said he was too small. Too quiet. From a country that "doesn't play baseball." Mauricio Dubón was never supposed to make it. But he did — and he didn't just make it. He became a World Series champion.

In this episode of Most Valuable Agent, MLB agent Matt Hannaford sits down with Houston Astros utility star Mauricio Dubón to uncover the real story behind one of the most unlikely journeys in baseball.

From shagging balls in Honduras to stepping in for José Altuve and going on a 20-game hit streak, Dubón's story is about more than baseball — it's about identity, grit, adaptability, and never waiting for permission.

What You'll Learn:

How to flip rejection into motivation
Why being a "utility guy" is a mindset — and an edge
What separates players who rise from the ones who fade
The mental shift that changed Dubón's entire career
How to lead with hunger, not ego — and why that matters

If this story hits home, subscribe and drop us a 5⭐️review on Apple or Spotify. Your support fuels conversations like this one.

Guest Bio: Mauricio Dubón is a professional MLB utility player for the Houston Astros and 2022 World Series champion. Born in Honduras, he became the first MLB player from his country and has played for the Red Sox, Brewers, Giants, and Astros.

🎙️ About the Show: Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford dives deep into the stories, mindset, and behind-the-scenes realities of elite athletes, coaches, and decision-makers in baseball and beyond. Subscribe now. These stories change the game.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Mauricio Dubón: @mauriciod10

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Truth About Draft Day: What Parents and Players Get Wrong Jun 11, 2025

The dream isn't just to be seen—it's to be ready.

In this can't-miss episode, agent Matt Hannaford sits down with Kris Gross, Scouting Director for the New York Mets, to reveal what really goes on behind the scenes of the MLB Draft.

You'll get an unfiltered look at how scouts evaluate talent, why some prospects never make it, and what separates the good from the great. From coachability and curiosity to signability and character, this episode uncovers the critical traits that matter most—and why they're often overlooked.

Whether you're a travel baseball parent, college athlete, or high school hopeful, this conversation will change how you think about exposure, development, and what it truly takes to make it in pro ball.

🎯 What You'll Learn:

The truth about exposure vs. readiness
What scouts really look for beyond talent
Why most prospects fail (and how to avoid it)
What parents do that unintentionally hurt their kid's path
The emotional rollercoaster of Draft Day decisions
How to evaluate transfer portal choices and NIL deals
What makes a player stand out: character, patience, grit

💥Loved this episode? Don't miss the next one. Subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app for weekly insider access to the minds behind the game.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Inside the Mind of an MLB GM: Zack Scott on Draft Strategy, Data & Developing Big Leaguers Jun 03, 2025

Unlock pro-level baseball insights with Zack Scott—ex-Red Sox GM—on draft prep, development, and mastering the mental game. Subscribe now! What really goes on inside the mind of an MLB GM?

Former Red Sox and Mets executive Zack Scott takes us deep into the front office to reveal how data, mindset, and real-world player development decisions shape big-league rosters. From how prospects are evaluated to what separates the guys who make it, Zack explains what most coaches, players, and parents get wrong—and what GMs are actually looking for.

🎯 Whether you're a coach, a travel ball parent, or a serious player trying to reach the next level, this is your masterclass in thinking like a pro.

💥 Loved this episode? Don't miss the next one. Subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app for weekly insider access to the minds behind the game: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

👉 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts—it helps us reach more coaches, players, and future pros.

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Zack Scott: @zackscottsports

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Here's What MLB Scouts Actually Look For (It's Not What You Think) May 28, 2025

Ever wondered what it really takes to catch the eye of a Major League Baseball scout? In this powerhouse episode of the Most Valuable Agent podcast, host Matt sits down with Gus Quattlebaum, VP of Scouting Development & Integration for the Boston Red Sox, and Johan Martinez-Khalilian, elite coach to athletes and artists.

Together, they reveal how pro teams evaluate talent—from advanced data and video review to the critical role of mindset, failure, and intangibles that can't be measured. Whether you're a player, parent, or baseball fanatic, this episode offers an insider view into modern scouting and the path to the pros.

🏆 You'll learn:

What scouts look for beyond stats
The biggest mental hurdles players face
Why emotional maturity is a game-changer
The true story behind Ryan Brasier's big-league comeback
How to assess the right development path for your kid

Plus: Gus opens up about his journey with MS and how he's giving back through MS4MS.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Gus Quattlebaum: @egqiv

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Spirit of the Game ft. Johan Martinez-Khalilian May 21, 2025

What if the most important part of the game... can't be measured?

In this powerful episode of Most Valuable Agent, Matt Hannaford sits down with elite mindset coach Johan Martinez-Khalilian to explore the spiritual side of sports—the "invisible game" that every athlete must confront.

From flow state and fear-based thinking to identity, surrender, and purpose, Johan reveals the deeper truths behind performance, burnout, and growth. This episode isn't about stats or medals—it's about becoming the kind of person who can thrive on and off the field.

🎯 For athletes, parents, coaches, and anyone chasing greatness, this is your invitation to redefine what success really means.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: • The real meaning of "flow state" and why it's spiritual • How fear, blame, and pressure block performance • A daily practice for grounded, resilient athletes • Why "get mine" culture leads to burnout and disconnection • How to model spiritual values for the next generation • Why every sport is an invitation to deeper personal growth • Johan's powerful story: From Chicago's streets to global stages

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Johan Martinez-Khalilian: @johanspeaks

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Train Like a Top Draft Pick—The Habits of Baseball's Best Teens May 14, 2025

What makes a high school baseball program truly elite? In this episode of Most Valuable Agent, we sit down with Brandon Oliver—former Yankees coach and co-founder of FUTURES—to unpack what separates good from great in today's ultra-competitive baseball world.

From his experience at Corona High School to building FUTURES into a national model, Brandon reveals how data, mindset, physicality, and aligned coaching shape the modern elite player.

🎯 Whether you're a coach, parent, or young athlete with big dreams, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the systems that produce next-level talent.

🔹What you'll learn in this episode:

How FUTURES Academy balances performance & academics
Brandon's path from overlooked player to MLB coaching staff
The role of monthly data reports and player trendlines
Why physicality, mental toughness, and competition matter more than exposure
How to align parents, coaches, and advisors for long-term success
Why "development > exposure" is the mindset elite athletes follow
Advice for families with limited resources

🌐 Learn more → FUTURESTrainingCenter.com

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Futures: @futurestrainingcenter

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Million Dollar Question: Sign Now or Go to College? May 07, 2025

What does it really take to go from high school standout to pro baseball?

In this episode of the Most Valuable Agent Podcast, former MLB player and Align Sports advisor Dylan Manwaring joins us to share the raw truths of navigating the path from youth baseball to the big leagues.

Dylan opens up about growing up with a major leaguer father (Matt Manwaring), standing out in a small town, and how showcases like Area Code Games and East Coast Pro shaped his journey to becoming an MLB draft pick.

Whether you're a parent, coach, or player trying to understand the pros and cons of going pro vs. going to college—this episode delivers rare insight and real talk from someone who's been there.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

What MLB scouts actually look for at top showcases
How Dylan got recruited out of a small town
The role of Prospect Link and digital scouting today
What families should consider when weighing college vs. draft
How to parent (and coach) through pressure without control
The mental grind of proving yourself in pro ball

If you're a parent, player, or coach looking to better understand how to navigate the path to college or pro baseball, this is the episode for you.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Dylan Manwaring: @d_manwaring

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Travel Team Spotlight: Inside 5 Star National with Andy Burress Apr 30, 2025

In this premiere Travel Team Spotlight episode of The Most Valuable Agent podcast, we sit down with Andy Burress—former Reds draft pick and founder of Five Star National, one of the most successful and expansive travel baseball programs in the country.

From his playing days to building a 50+ location organization (spanning the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and Australia), Andy opens up about the realities of youth baseball—the wins, the mistakes, and the deeper mission behind it all.

You'll hear how his son Drew Burress (a Georgia Tech standout) developed as a player, and why Five Star's model focuses on accountability, structure, and long-term growth—not just exposure or trophies.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How Five Star National became a standout in the world of travel baseball
The biggest misconceptions about "development vs. showcasing"
What really helps players succeed in college recruiting
Why failure, structure, and accountability matter more than early wins
How Andy approached his own son's development—and what you can learn from it
Key advice for parents navigating the travel ball journey

⚾️ Know a baseball parent or coach who needs to hear this?

📤 Share this episode and help spread insights from one of the game's most respected voices.

👍 Like if you've ever struggled with balancing development and exposure.

💬 Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway—we read every one!

Resources & Mentions:

Five Star National: https://www.fivestarnational.com

Georgia Tech Baseball: https://ramblinwreck.com/sports/m-basebl/

PG Baseball (Perfect Game): https://www.perfectgame.org/

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

5 Star National Baseball: @5starnational

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Getting the Most from Your Agent at Every Stage of Your Career Apr 23, 2025

Welcome back to The Most Valuable Agent podcast!

In this power-packed episode, Matt and Brian Hannaford unpack one of the most critical—but often misunderstood—aspects of a player's career: how to actually maximize your relationship with your agent.

Whether you're navigating college recruiting, exploring NIL deals, entering the MLB Draft, or managing life in pro ball—having an agent isn't enough. You need to know how to be a strategic partner in your own success.

From walking on at Arizona State to negotiating multimillion-dollar contracts, Matt and Brian share lessons learned on both sides of the player-agent relationship—along with hard truths every athlete and family should hear.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why college baseball is now a business—and how to approach it like one
How NIL and the transfer portal have changed the game forever
The "freedom point" every player should define to stay grounded
How your honesty, interest, and communication affect your agent's ability to advocate for you
The #1 mistake players make when choosing an agent
What a great agent-client relationship really looks like (spoiler: it's not hand-holding)
A behind-the-scenes look at the Austin Riley extension and what it reveals about long-term planning
The 7 essential questions every player should ask before signing with any agent

This episode isn't just about representation—it's a masterclass in agency, alignment, and personal ownership.

If you're a player, parent, or coach looking to navigate the complex world of college recruiting, NIL, and pro baseball with clarity and confidence—this one's for you.

👉 Ready to take control of your future?

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Brian Hannaford: @bhannafo

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Tony Clark on Player Power, Purpose, and the Future Apr 17, 2025

What role does the MLB Players Association really play—and why should even high school athletes and their families care?

In this episode of The Most Valuable Agent, Matt Hannaford sits down with Tony Clark, former All-Star and current Executive Director of the MLBPA, for an unfiltered conversation about the past, present, and future of baseball.

From being a first-round draft pick to now representing thousands of professional athletes, Tony shares a rare, insider look at how labor rights, player empowerment, and education off the field are just as crucial as what happens between the lines.

Together, they explore:

⚾️ The formation and purpose of the MLBPA

⚾️ The legacy of Curt Flood, Marvin Miller, and the '94 strike

⚾️ The union's role in youth baseball, NIL, and mental health support

⚾️ Why young players must understand the business of the game

⚾️ How to become the CEO of your own career

This episode is a must-listen for prospects, parents, coaches, and fans who care about the soul of the sport—and the people in it.

🔔 Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations with the game's most influential voices 📤 Share this with a teammate, parent, or coach who needs to hear it

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

MLBPA: @mlbpa

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Pitch Smarter, Not Harder: MLB Lessons with Tyler Zombro Apr 16, 2025

What does it really take to go from overlooked to overachiever in professional baseball?

In this episode of Most Valuable Agent, Matt Hannaford sits down with Tyler Zombro—a former undrafted pitcher who battled his way to Triple-A and now serves as Special Assistant of Pitching for the Chicago Cubs.

Tyler's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless improvement. From setbacks and injuries to shaping how MLB teams develop arms today, his journey is packed with lessons for players, coaches, and anyone navigating the evolving world of baseball.

Whether you're chasing a roster spot, building a development system, or guiding a young athlete, this episode dives deep into the data, biomechanics, and mindset reshaping pitching at every level.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Tyler's journey from undrafted free agent to AAA pitcher and front office exec unfolded ✅ Why command, pitch design, and self-awareness often trump velocity ✅ The real role of data in modern pitching development and talent evaluation ✅ How to build a plan for adding velo, refining pitch shapes, and avoiding injury ✅ What makes Tread Athletics different—and how it helped top arms like Cole Ragans ✅ Why transparent communication is the missing ingredient in many MLB organizations ✅ What amateur and pro players should consider when choosing a team, coach, or plan ✅ The importance of player development systems, biomechanics, and long-term strategy ✅ How teams like the Cubs and Dodgers build winning culture by maximizing undervalued arms ✅ Why mental models, adaptability, and understanding your identity matter more than ever

🔔 Subscribe for weekly baseball insights from the game's brightest minds

📤 Share this with a teammate, coach, or young pitcher on the rise

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Tyler Zombro: @t_zombro42

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

How Kurt Suzuki Beat the Odds: College Baseball, Mental Toughness & the Big Leagues Apr 09, 2025

In the second part, of this episode of the Most Valuable Agent Podcast, former MLB catcher and World Series champion Kurt Suzuki joins host Matt Hannaford to share his journey from overlooked Hawaii high school athlete to 16-year Major League veteran.

Kurt dives into the ups and downs of walking on at Cal State Fullerton, grinding through the minors, and eventually becoming one of the most respected catchers in the game—with an All-Star nod and a World Series ring to show for it.

Whether you're a baseball parent, aspiring player, or travel ball coach, this episode delivers real talk, mindset shifts, and hard-earned wisdom you won't hear in typical recruiting conversations.

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

✅ Growing up in Hawaii: Challenges and cultural uniqueness in pursuing baseball ✅ Choosing a walk-on opportunity over a full scholarship ✅ The mental edge: How Kurt built confidence and caught the eye of scouts ✅What college baseball really teaches you ✅ The game-changing mindset shift that transformed Kurt's career ✅ Fullerton's legendary run to the College World Series ✅ The truth about travel ball, exposure, and scholarships for young athletes ✅ The problem with ego in youth baseball and how to develop winning players ✅ The role of parents: What every sports parent should (and shouldn't) do ✅The value of choosing the right agent and building long-term trust

Whether you're navigating youth baseball politics, making a college decision, or working your way through the minors, Kurt offers grounded wisdom, real stories, and actionable insight.

Subscribe for weekly interviews with athletes, coaches, and pros sharing lessons you won't learn on the field.

📍 Check out more on Kurt Suzuki and PONO Baseball: https://ponobaseball.com

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Kurt Suzuki: @kurt_suzuki_pono_baseball

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

How Kurt Suzuki Went from Walk-On to World Series Champion Apr 02, 2025

Think making it to the MLB is all about raw talent? Think again.

Kurt Suzuki's journey from an overlooked Hawaiian athlete to a 16-year MLB career proves that mindset, adaptability, and persistence matter more than anything else.

In this episode of Most Valuable Agent, World Series champion Kurt Suzuki sits down with host Matt to share his unfiltered story—from walking on at Cal State Fullerton to winning a College World Series and ultimately thriving in the big leagues.

Whether you're a youth baseball player, parent navigating travel ball politics, or just a fan of underdog success stories, this episode is packed with must-know lessons on perseverance, mental toughness, and making the most of every opportunity.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

⚾️ The challenges of being a baseball prospect from Hawaii

⚾️ Why exposure and opportunity outweigh raw talent in recruiting

⚾️ How Kurt turned down a full-ride to walk on at Fullerton… and why

⚾️ The mindset shift that changed everything, thanks to Ken Ravizza

⚾️ The story behind becoming a national champion and Johnny Bench Award winner

⚾️ How humility, adaptability, and being a "winning player" matter more than stats

⚾️ Advice for parents navigating youth baseball and travel ball politics 🧠

⚾️ Behind-the-scenes insights on agents, the business of MLB, and staying in the bigs

💥 This isn't just a story about baseball—it's about life, mindset, perseverance, and becoming undeniable. Whether you're a youth athlete, parent, coach, or fan of the game, you'll walk away with a new perspective on what it takes to compete—and win—at the highest level.

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content: https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Kurt Suzuki: @kurt_suzuki_pono_baseball

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

He Coached His Son to the MLB Draft—Craig Holman on What Really Matters Mar 26, 2025

What if everything you thought about youth baseball, travel ball, and scholarships was upside down? In this emotional and eye-opening episode of Most Valuable Agent, host Matt sits down with former pro pitcher, travel ball coach, and baseball dad Craig Holman—father of LSU standout and MLB Draft pick Luke Holman.

This isn't just about rankings, exposure, or getting a D1 scholarship. This is about what really matters—the relationship between parent and child, the power of presence, and how chasing the wrong things can rob families of the joy that sports are supposed to bring.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

✅ "Be a Dad First" – Why your relationship matters more than your kid's batting average ✅ Development > Exposure – The dangerous lie most travel baseball families believe ✅ The College Decision – What every parent should know before their child commits ✅ Coaching Without Regret – How to pour into your kids without expecting a return ✅ Visualizing Success – The mental strategies Craig used as a pro and taught his kids ✅ Lessons from the Draft Process – What Craig learned representing his own son ✅ The Wolf at the Door – Why staying uncomfortable can be the greatest gift ✅ The Most Important Investment – Why time spent with your child is the ultimate ROI

Whether you're a baseball parent, aspiring athlete, or coach, this episode is a masterclass in humility, leadership, and legacy.

📲 SHARE this episode with a coach, parent, or athlete who needs to hear the truth Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

___

RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Craig Holman: @craigholman35

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

MLB Draft or College? – Auburn Coach Karl Nonemaker on Choosing the Right Path Mar 19, 2025

Want to play college baseball or go pro? This episode is a must-hear! Auburn University assistant head coach Karl Nonemaker joins the podcast to discuss the college baseball recruiting process, the impact of the transfer portal, and how players can make the best decision between playing at the collegiate level and going pro.

Karl shares valuable insights from his experience as both a player and a D1 coach, offering real-world advice for high school athletes, parents, and aspiring college baseball players. If you're wondering how to stand out in the recruiting process, what SEC baseball is really like, or how to navigate the draft vs. college decision, this episode has the answers. The decisions you make NOW will shape your future.

Don't get left behind - learn what it takes to play at the next level.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

✅ The reality of SEC baseball – Why it's one of the most competitive conferences in the country. ✅ Should you go pro or play in college? – Breaking down the factors that influence this critical decision. ✅ How to stand out in recruiting – What coaches actually look for in players. ✅ The impact of the transfer portal & NIL – How college baseball has evolved in the last few years. ✅ Social media & recruiting – How players can use video and social platforms to get noticed. ✅ Roster size changes & player development – What it means for incoming freshmen and two-way players.

If you're serious about baseball and want to learn from a top-level coach, hit play now!

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Karl Nonemaker: @knonemak

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Mental Trick That Made Sean Casey an MLB All-Star Mar 12, 2025

What separates good athletes from elite performers? It's not just talent—it's mental discipline. In this episode of Most Valuable Agent, Sean Casey, former MLB All-Star and performance coach, breaks down the mental game of baseball and how mastering your mindset can transform your performance on and off the field.

Sean shares how Harvey Dorfman's book, The Mental Game of Baseball, completely changed his approach to the game, giving him a sixth tool—the ability to stay calm, focused, and confident under pressure. He reveals how mental toughness helped him go from being overlooked in high school to becoming one of the best hitters in the country.

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What You'll Learn from This Episode: ✔️ Why 80-90% of baseball is mental—but few players train their mindset ✔️ How Sean Casey used visualization & breathing techniques to stay locked in at the plate ✔️ Lessons from Ken Griffey Sr. & the legends of the game that shaped his career ✔️ Why players fail at showcases—and how to dominate at game time ✔️ The power of self-belief & outworking the competition

Unlock the Mental Edge to Dominate in Baseball & Life!

Sean Casey isn't just talking theory—he lived it. If you're an athlete, coach, or competitor looking for an edge, this is the episode to watch.

📌 Check out Sean's 8 Week mental performance program: https://www.seancaseylive.com/breakthroughpro

Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Sean Casey: @themayorsofficemlb

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Johan Martinez-Khalilian's Life-Changing Advice to Conquer Fear & Unlock Your True Purpose Mar 05, 2025

What if fear wasn't a barrier but an invitation to step into something greater?

In this powerful episode of the Most Valuable Agent Podcast, Matt welcomes Johan Martinez-Khalilian—an award-winning speaker, mentor, and life coach to professional athletes—to dive deep into personal growth, resilience, and redefining success.

Johan shares his profound insights on breaking free from limiting beliefs, stepping outside your comfort zone, and embracing transformation—whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or simply someone striving to create a meaningful impact.

This episode will challenge the way you think about fear, leadership, and success, offering actionable strategies to push past self-doubt and level up in your life and career.

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What You'll Learn from This Episode:

✅ Why redefining success is crucial for long-term fulfillment

✅ How fear can actually guide you toward your true calling

✅ The power of adaptability in personal and professional growth

✅ Why transactional relationships hold people back

✅ What it means to be irreplaceable in your field and in life Subscribe to Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel for more content

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/

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RESOURCES + LINKS

ALIGND Sports: Elite Representation. Strategic Growth. Maximum Impact.

From contract negotiations to career development, we put athletes first—helping you secure your future on and off the field.

Ready to take your career to the next level? Book a 1:1 consultation with Matt HERE.

Johan Martinez-Khalilian: @johanspeaks

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Inside Athlete Marketing: NIL, Branding & Baseball's Future with Adidas' Charley Stobbs Feb 18, 2025

What does it really take to land an endorsement deal? In this episode, I sit down with Charley Stobbs, U.S. Sports Marketing Director for Adidas Baseball and Football, to break down the business of branding & sponsorships in sports — including the differences between NIL in baseball vs. football, how social media is reshaping athlete branding, and what young players need to do to build real marketing value. We talk about how brands like Adidas select their athletes, and why performance matters more than just hype. Charley also shares why East Coast Pro is a must-attend event, what brands look for beyond talent, and how sponsorship deals have evolved in today's game.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Charley Stobbs, U.S. Sports Marketing Director for Adidas Baseball and Football.

07:30 How has athlete marketing changed with social media?

12:45 What Adidas looks for when signing players to sponsorship deals.

18:00 What athletes need to know about brand partnerships beyond wearing the gear.

24:00 How brands strategize around signing athletes with All-Star potential.

27:00 How player brand transitions happen when switching from one major brand to another.

29:45 The underrated factor that can make or break an athlete's brand potential.

33:45 Advice for young athletes looking to land a brand deal.

38:00 When should parents start thinking about athlete branding for their kids?

44:30 What young players should focus on instead of social media hype.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Charley Stobbs: @cstobbs2

Tyler Zombro on Pitching Development, Data Analytics, and Navigating the Business of Baseball Feb 11, 2025

Pitching development has changed dramatically over the last decade. In this episode, I am joined by Tyler Zombro, the Special Assistant to the Cubs Pitching Director. We talk about the biggest developments in pitching – why velocity isn't everything, how pitch shapes and biomechanics change the way pitchers train, and how organizations like the Cubs use data to maximize every arm in their system. Plus, we dive into the critical aspect of transparency between teams and players, the mistakes players and parents are making in youth baseball, and what free agents need to consider before signing with a team.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 What are the controllables that determine pitching success?

06:15 The mental shift that pitchers must make to survive in pro baseball.

10:30 The turning point that made Tyler realize he wanted to help other pitchers succeed.

17:00 What happens when a pitcher walks into Tread Athletics for the first time?

20:15 The difference between private pitching development vs MLB front office.

28:00 One thing every free agent should demand from teams before signing.

36:30 Why the right organization matters more than the signing bonus.

43:00 How minor adjustments in pitch usage turned pitchers into multi-millionaires.

47:45 The risks of forcing mechanical changes that don't fit a pitcher's body.

50:00 What parents of young pitchers need to stop doing immediately.

52:00 The surprising pitch that's dominating modern baseball.

53:15 The pitching metric that reveals if a pitcher will succeed in the big leagues.

58:15 When is the right age for a player to start throwing a breaking ball?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Tyler Zombro: @t_zombro42

Opportunities Over Excuses: KC Royals Hitting Coach, Keoni DeRenne's, Message to Young Baseball Players Feb 04, 2025

The jump from amateur baseball to the big leagues is bigger than most people realize. In today's episode, I'm joined by Keoni DeRenne, Assistant Major League Hitting Coach for the Kansas City Royals, to break down the realities of making it to the pros. He shares the hidden struggles of big leaguers and what truly separates them from everyone else. We talk about what parents need to do differently when talking to their kids about the game, how young players should structure their training, and what every aspiring pro needs to be thinking about NOW if they want to make it.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The common pitfall parents make when coaching their kids after a game.

07:30 How has baseball changed over the last 15-20 years?

12:15 The hardest part about transitioning from playing to coaching in the big leagues.

17:45 How does music impact player performance and mindset?

22:30 The best way to approach players struggling with performance slumps.

29:15 How parents can support their kids in baseball without adding pressure.

35:15 How can players develop a drill package from tee work to live BP?

40:00 What mindset and process does it really take to make it to the big leagues?

45:45 What are the biggest challenges for youth and travel baseball players from Hawaii?

53:45 How former Hawaiian pros stay connected and mentor the next generation.

56:15 The one thing every aspiring major leaguer should pay attention to.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Keoni DeRenne: @kepony__derenne

Kurt Suzuki: From College Walk-On to World Series Champion, Assistant to the GM, and Travel Baseball Coach Part 2 Jan 28, 2025

What defines a winning player from the rest? In this episode, I'm joined again by World Series Champion and MLB All-Star Kurt Suzuki for part two of our conversation. We break down what it takes to develop a winning mindset that opens up doors to opportunity, both in baseball and in life. Kurt shares his wisdom as a player, coach, and parent in creating positive team chemistry to navigate the decision-making process of youth baseball and the business of baseball. Tune in to discover the traits and habits young players need to succeed!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The biggest benefits of building college team culture.

06:45 Why team chemistry remains critical (even at the professional level).

12:45 Josh Donaldson's transition from catcher to third baseman.

21:00 How Kurt went from MLB player to front office leadership.

29:00 The ideal role of parents in supporting young athletes.

33:45 Why being coachable and open-minded transforms a player's career.

36:00 What players need to know about the business side of baseball.

44:30 Advice for parents and players navigating the business of baseball.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Kurt Suzuki: @kurt_suzuki_pono_baseball

Kurt Suzuki: From College Walk-On to World Series Champion, Assistant to the GM, and Travel Baseball Coach Part 1 Jan 21, 2025

Get ready to discover how you go from college walk-on to World Series Champion. In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and former client, Kurt Suzuki. He shares what it takes to compete at the highest level, the critical role of mental preparation, and why short-term goals are important for long-term success. Plus, he shares the best life-changing advice he received from legendary sports psychologist Ken Ravizza to stand out and compete as an elite player.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Kurt Suzuki, College World Series and MLB World Series Champion.

05:00 How do players overcome the challenges of growing up with limited exposure to scouts?

09:15 When did you realize you could compete at the highest level?

14:00 The risks of today's travel ball culture and why polished players are becoming rare.

19:00 How to stand out and catch the attention of scouts.

22:30 Lessons from legendary sports psychologist Ken Ravizza.

26:00 Ways to overcome injury fears and confidence.

31:00 BTS stories from the 2004 College World Series Championship run.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Kurt Suzuki: @kurt_suzuki_pono_baseball

The Unconventional Path to a 2X Major League Baseball World Series Champion with Jonny Gomes Part 2 Jan 14, 2025

Get ready to learn how a player goes from good to generationally great! In this second part of our two-part conversation with Jonny Gomes, we delve deeper into the intricacies of professional baseball and the business behind the game. He shares tips on simplifying the game, leveraging preparation, and adapting to the relentless demands of professional baseball. We also discuss the fine line between analytics and instinct, coaching challenges, and how data can help prevent injuries in young athletes.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The habits that separate top players from the rest.

03:45 Advice on how to simplify the game.

09:00 The mindset and preparation that separate elite players like Joey Votto.

14:30 The toughest opponent in major league baseball.

19:30 Why modern coaching is more challenging than ever.

26:00 What should matter more than winning in youth baseball?

32:00 How self-evaluation and smart coaching build trust in player development.

35:45 How data is reshaping injury prevention.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Jonny Gomes: @jonnygomesusa

The Unconventional Path to a 2X Major League Baseball World Series Champion with Jonny Gomes, Part 1 Jan 07, 2025

What does it take to turn untraditional beginnings into a major league career? In this first installment of a two-part series, I'm joined by the two-time World Series champion Jonny Gomes. We talk about how today's amateur baseball landscape differs from previous generations, how to secure a college scholarship, and what it takes to grind through the challenges of minor league baseball. Jonny shares how to build confidence, the critical role of preparation, and how to make adjustments to thrive at every level of the game.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 How to secure a college scholarship in baseball.

05:30 Lessons from a zero-scholarship athlete who earned a pro tryout.

09:00 Advice for parents on guiding young athletes through rankings and expectations.

13:45 How to build confidence as an athlete.

18:30 How do support systems help overcome the challenges of minor league baseball?

25:15 The most important skill for young players.

33:00 Strategies to simplify the game.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Jonny Gomes: @jonnygomesusa

How to Get Recruited: Inside College Baseball with Auburn's Karl Nonemaker Dec 31, 2024

How do you stand out in college baseball recruiting? In this episode, I sit down with Karl Nonemaker, Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Auburn University. He breaks down what it takes to catch a coach's eye and shares actionable advice for players, parents, and coaches navigating the recruiting process. We also dive into the impact of rule changes like the transfer portal, and the role of technology and NIL in college baseball. Get ready to level up your understanding of college baseball recruitment.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Auburn's Recruiting Coordinator, Karl Nonemaker.

05:30 Factors to consider when deciding between college and professional baseball.

14:30 How the recent rule changes shape the early recruitment process.

17:30 Ways to use social media to grab a coach's attention.

24:15 Why two-way players are a growing asset for college programs.

27:00 How NIL is reshaping opportunities in college baseball.

33:30 Advice for high school players navigating the recruiting process.

40:00 Why transparency is critical among players, parents, and coaches.

47:45 What parents should and shouldn't do to support their athletes.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Karl Nonemaker: @knonemak

The Science and Soul of Hitting: Personal Big League Hitting Coach Benny Craig on Mindset, Mechanics, and Development Dec 24, 2024

Ever wondered what you need to excel at hitting, both physically and mentally? In this episode, I'm joined by renowned hitting coach Benny Craig, founder of Feel Good Hitting. He shares his strategies for developing hitters through an individualized approach, combining mechanics, mindset, and MORE. We also dive into lessons from legends like Ted Williams, Sadaharu Oh, and Kobe Bryant. Tune in to learn how to sync your breathing with your swing, and develop a powerful hitting approach that goes beyond the basics.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The mindset that sets elite athletes apart.

04:00 Meet Benny Craig, personal Big League hitting coach.

07:15 Lessons from Ted Williams and Sadaharu Oh that every hitter should know.

16:30 Ted Williams' three golden rules for hitting success.

21:30 What's missing in high school that prepares athletes for the next level?

30:00 Two must-know breathing techniques to improve hitting performance.

39:30 What are the pillars of great hitting?

47:30 How to create consistency with feedback and game-speed training.

55:15 What separates great hitters like Aaron Judge from the rest.

01:01:45 The mindset and work ethic that made Ted Williams and Kobe Bryant legends.

01:08:45 Who is a hitter young players should watch to improve their game?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more from Benny HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Benny Craig: @bennycraig

How Your Son Can Become More Valuable in the MLB Draft with the National Crosschecker for the New York Yankees, Mike Wagner Dec 17, 2024

What separates a good prospect from a great one? In this episode, I am joined by Mike Wagner, the National Crosschecker for the New York Yankees, to share ways your son can stand out in the scouting process. He breaks down the role of technology and analytics, the difference between on-field and off-field makeup, and tips on choosing the right coaches and programs for youth players. He also shares the challenges of transitioning into professional play. Get ready to know what scouts are really looking for!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Mike Wagner, National Crosschecker for the New York Yankees.

06:30 When do scouts start evaluating young players?

10:30 What is on-field vs off-field makeup in scouting?

16:15 How scouts and directors collaborate to find the next MLB stars.

25:15 How teams evaluate player performance.

31:30 Should young players specialize in one sport?

35:30 The difference between a player's skills vs top-end potential.

44:00 What is the 20-80 player grading scale?

54:30 Advice for youth players on choosing the right team and coach.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Mike Wagner: @michaelwagner

Dallas Braden on How to Get to the Big Leagues When You're Not a Top Prospect Dec 10, 2024

What does it really take to defy the odds, going from an overlooked underdog to an MLB player? In this episode, I sit down with former MLB pitcher, Dallas Braden. We break down what good representation in the MLB draft really looks like, and the challenges of being an overlooked prospect. Dallas shares the mindset, lessons, and advice that shaped his Major League Baseball career and transformed his approach on the mound. He also opens up about the impact of his grandmother's unwavering support and the lessons parents need to hear about setting realistic expectations to manage the player's pressures of travel ball. Tune in to learn how to rise above systemic challenges and adversity.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Dallas Braden, former MLB pitcher.

05:00 What advice transformed your approach to pitching?

10:00 Why junior college was a "launching pad" for Dallas' career.

16:15 Advice for parents on setting realistic expectations.

22:30 How parents' behavior affects a player's future.

25:00 What good representation in the MLB draft really looks like.

31:30 The mindset that turns an underdog into a Major League pitcher.

38:00 The story behind Dallas' perfect game on Mother's Day.

44:45 What parents need to know about managing travel ball schedules.

54:45 Who should young players watch to learn how to play the game the right way?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Dallas Braden: @the209mayor

Inside MLB Scouting, Draft Models, and Player Development with Jonathan Mayo Dec 03, 2024

What really makes a baseball player thrive? Is it raw talent, hard work, or a bit of both? In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Mayo, a renowned expert in the MLB draft, minor leagues, and scouting. We dive into the evolution of scouting since COVID, the pros and cons of hybrid draft models, and the role of the MLB combine. Jonathan also shares insights from his book, which dives into the origin stories of baseball's unexpected stars like Joey Votto, Jacob deGrom, and Albert Pujols. Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories that will change the way you view baseball development.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Jonathan Mayo, expert in the MLB draft, minor leagues, and scouting.

08:00 How has scouting changed since COVID?

13:30 Is the MLB draft combine worth it for players?

17:45 How to create draft and minor league prospect rankings.

22:00 The origin stories of baseball's unexpected stars.

26:45 What makes MLB teams excel at player development.

33:00 Why is raw talent not enough?

37:45 How minor league top 30 rankings are created.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Get your copy of Jonathan's book "Smart, Wrong, and Lucky: The Origin Stories of Baseball's Unexpected Stars" HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Jonathan Mayo: @jonathanmayob3

The Power of Breath: Enhancing Performance in Youth Baseball with Major League Human Performance Coach, Harvey Martin Nov 26, 2024

What drives elite performance? Today, I speak with Harvey Martin, former Human Performance Coach for the San Francisco Giants. He shares how he overcame anxiety and the yips as a professional baseball player to become a leader in human performance coaching. We break down the critical connection between physiology and psychology in achieving peak performance. Plus, we unpack how breathing techniques enhance athletic performance, regulate emotions, and unlock untapped potential. Tune in to learn breathing exercises that boost your game!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Harvey Martin, former Human Performance Coach for the San Francisco Giants.

04:00 Harvey's journey from collegiate baseball to the Milwaukee Brewers.

15:30 Breathing exercises to boost athletic performance at any level.

23:00 The physiological impacts between nasal and mouth breathing.

42:30 How has breathwork reshaped your life and coaching philosophy?

51:30 Advice for young players to handle pro baseball's mental and physical demands.

56:30 What is your baseball coaching approach?

01:01:00 Strategies for creating open communication between players and coaches.

01:04:45 How can high school or college players better prepare for pro baseball?

01:19:00 How to overcome psychological challenges as an athlete transitioning out of their sports career.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Get your copy of Harvey's book "Without Words" HERE

Learn more about Harvey HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Harvey Martin: @harveyjmartin

The Front Office Perspective: Insights from Former GM, Bill Geivett Nov 19, 2024

What makes a championship team? In this episode, I sit down with Bill Geivett, former Senior VP of Major League Operations for the Colorado Rockies, to uncover the mindset, strategy, and systems behind elite performance. We dive into the evolving role of data in baseball, the balance between analytics and on-the-ground scouting, and the high stakes decision-making process in professional sports. He also introduces an innovative platform designed to transform how athletes, teams, and fans connect. Get ready to elevate your game to the next level!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Level up your game with former GM, Bill Geivett.

02:15 How data and analytics have transformed baseball.

08:30 The high stakes involved in making professional sports decisions.

15:15 What parents and players need to know about the draft process.

22:00 How minor league development aligns with major league goals.

26:45 What defines a great teammate?

30:45 What made you write "Do You Want to Work in Baseball?".

41:45 How to prepare your mindset to thrive in Major League Baseball.

46:45 The app designed to revolutionize social connections in sports.

54:00 Bill's long-term mission for youth sports.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Get your copy of Bill's book "Do You Want to Work in Baseball?" HERE

Download the IMA Team app HERE

Learn more about IMA Team HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Bill Geivett: @geivettbill

Navigating the NIL Landscape with Former NCAA Investigator and Current NIL Attorney, Tim Nevius Nov 12, 2024

Are NIL deals a huge opportunity or a legal headache for student-athletes? In this episode, I sit down with Tim Nevius, former NCAA Investigator and current NIL Attorney, to unpack the evolving landscape of NIL – Name, Image, and Likeness – in college sports. Tim shares tips with college athletes and families about the complexities of NIL deals. We break down the latest developments in college sports reform, including NIL collectives, brand partnerships, and revenue sharing, and how these changes affect student-athletes at both high school and collegiate levels. Get ready to make smart and balanced decisions in the NIL space.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Tim's journey from college athlete to athletes' rights advocate.

07:45 The current state and legal evolution of NIL in college sports.

10:45 Common misconceptions about collectives vs. NIL brand deals.

14:15 How can athletes protect their eligibility while maximizing NIL opportunities?

17:30 Advice for parents on protecting their children's eligibility.

25:15 One major factor brands consider in NIL deals.

30:15 Red flags athletes and families should watch for in NIL contracts.

36:00 Why young athletes must prepare for tax responsibilities and seek financial guidance.

41:00 What's your advice for student-athletes figuring out NIL?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Nevius Legal HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Tim Nevius: @timnevius

Tim Nevius Email: tim@neviuslegal.com

Mental Skills for the Next Generation of Athletes with Sean O'Brien Nov 05, 2024

In the highly competitive world of youth sports, how can players get mentally prepared to reach their highest potential? In this episode, I'm joined by Sean O'Brien, founder of HeadTop Performance, to talk about the mental skills that set great athletes apart. He shares proven strategies for handling pressure, reframing failure, and creating routines that boost confidence. We also dive into the mindset shifts that separate pros from amateurs, daily habits for consistency, and tips for athletes and parents to build and support mental strength from a young age. Tune in to discover tools to build a mindset that drives athletes to their peak performance.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 What is it like to work with athletes on mental performance?

04:45 The standard mindset that defines top athletes in sports and life.

07:00 Tools for overcoming failure and pressure at showcases.

10:30 How commitments to yourself impact sports and life success.

13:00 Reflection exercises for athletes after games and showcases.

16:15 Tools that prepare athletes mentally for peak performance.

19:15 One common pitfall players rarely recognize early in their careers.

24:00 How to balance motivation and commitment.

25:30 How reverse engineering helps athletes reach their ultimate potential.

30:30 The mindset that separates professionals from amateurs.

34:00 What is your advice to parents on supporting their children's athletic journey?

40:30 How to handle adversity and reframe negative situations.

42:45 How young athletes start building mental discipline early.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Sean O'Brien and HeadTop Performance HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Velocity, Strength, and Smarter Training: A Conversation with Dr. Nick Serio Oct 29, 2024

Addendum: In the episode, the guest mentioned the proper water consumption is one ounce per pound of body weight, the correct amount is half your body weight (or an ounce per kg) not an ounce per pound.

Your athlete can improve their game without risking injury. In this episode, I'm joined by renowned sports performance coach, Dr. Nick Serio. We talk about the crazy lengths these young athletes will go to chase velocity, and how that can actually end up doing more harm than good. Dr. Serio shares his approach to customizing the training to the individual, not just throwing them into a one-size-fits-all program. He also shares the story of an athlete who came in thinking he needed to be squatting heavy, but it was actually wrecking his hips. Dr. Serio drops a ton of knowledge on the mental side, nutrition, and how to set these players up for long-term success, not just short-term gains.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Dr. Nick Serio.

03:15 The fine line between improving skill and staying healthy.

07:00 How can athletes develop velocity safely?

21:00 What age should players begin strength training?

29:00 The best things you can do to strengthen your athletes' mental game.

31:15 Ways to teach your kids strength training techniques if you can't access experts.

38:00 How to not waste time trying to model what every other athlete is doing.

42:30 How to improve communication skills (including non verbal communication.)

47:45 The power of treating practice like the real game.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Dr. Nick Serio: @coach_serio

Contact Velocity team@velouniversity.com

Velocity, Strength, and Smarter Training: A Conversation with Dr. Nick Serio Oct 29, 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Dr. Nick Serio.

03:15 The fine line between improving skill and staying healthy.

07:00 How can athletes develop velocity safely?

21:00 What age should players begin strength training?

29:00 The best things you can do to strengthen your athletes' mental game.

31:15 Ways to teach your kids strength training techniques if you can't access experts.

38:00 How to not waste time trying to model what every other athlete is doing.

42:30 How to improve communication skills (including non verbal communication.)

47:45 The power of treating practice like the real game.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Dr. Nick Serio: @coach_serio

Contact Velocity team@velouniversity.com

ESPN's Senior MLB Insider, Jeff Passan, on the Power of Players Engaging with the Media Oct 22, 2024

In the age of 24/7 sports coverage, how does the media influence the careers and lives of baseball players? In this episode, ESPN's Senior MLB Insider, Jeff Passan, shares his experiences navigating the complex relationship between athletes and reporters. From breaking major trade news to building trust with players, Jeff shares the responsibility and power the media holds in shaping baseball's biggest stories. We also delve into how media coverage, analytics, and youth development collide in today's game. Get ready for a real inside look at how the media and analytics are shaping the future of baseball.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 How today's data-centric world is impacting young athletes.

03:45 What does it take to become a sports journalist?

07:00 How media interact with players when they first reach the big leagues.

14:15 BTS look at reporting trade rumors and the ethical boundaries involved.

19:00 Tips for players when answering media questions.

21:45 The rise of analytics and its impact on how players are evaluated.

28:30 What's the difference between on the record vs off the record?

35:30 The challenges Jeff observed at every stage of an athlete's baseball career.

40:45 Long-term effects of focusing on velocity over mechanics.

45:00 How professional baseball's current velocity obsession is impacting young athletes.

49:00 How tournaments prioritize exposure over player development.

58:00 What is the role of media literacy for young players, agents, and families?

01:03:00 Jeff's advice for players on interacting with the media.

01:06:45 What Jeff learned about transparency in journalism.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Jeff Passan: @jeffpassan

Building Your Brand: The Power of Branding for Young Athletes with Dusty Williams Oct 15, 2024

Ever wonder how athletes build a standout personal brand? In this episode, I sit with Dustin Williams, an artist-turned-marketing expert. We dive deep into sports marketing, branding, and how athletes build their brands. He shares his shift from rebranding a pest control company to working with professional athletes, including his creative approach to helping athletes like Austin Riley stand out. We explore how athletes take control of their marketing strategies, stay authentic, and create engaging content. Dustin offers tips for young athletes on building their brand, including why it's crucial to be consistent, think like a business, and engage with the community. Get ready to learn more about branding and marketing!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The story behind launching and growing Green Mango Pest Control.

04:15 Lessons learned from branding and working with athletes.

07:00 How engagement matters more than high production.

13:30 What do baseball players struggle with branding?

17:00 Dustin's advice for young athletes.

25:00 How to create brand collaborations as a high school athlete.

30:00 What athletes need to think about for long-term success.

41:30 Strategies to create an appealing social media profile that aligns with your brand.

46:30 What are essential in both marketing and building relationships?

49:15 How often should athletes post on social media to grow their following and engagement?

52:00 Top tip to boost your social media content.

01:01:15 Should athletes create their own personal logos?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Dustin Williams: @tdustinwilliams

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Unlocking Elite Youth Baseball: Insights with Eric Cressey on Long-Term Success and Injury Prevention Oct 08, 2024

The game has changed, and so have the risks. Today, we dive into a topic that every parent, player, and coach must be aware of - how to prevent early injuries and build a foundation for long-term athletic success. I sit down with Eric Cressey, the Director of Player Health and Performance for the New York Yankees to talk about all things youth baseball development, the athletic development pyramid, and what is leading young athletes to burnout and injuries so we can avoid them. We discuss everything from building a strong mental approach to nutrition, sleep strategies, and MORE. Tune in to create a balanced, healthy, and fun approach to the game.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Eric Cressey, President and Co-Founder of Cressey Sports Performance.

04:00 What trends are you seeing in youth baseball development?

09:15 The "athletic pyramid" and how young athletes should prioritize strength and mobility first.

13:45 How Cressey Sports Performance helps players nationwide.

17:45 The dangers of having a "keeping up with the Joneses" mentality.

27:45 How overspecialization affects young athletes.

30:00 The role of nutrition and sleep in athletic performance.

33:30 The Japanese study on UCL damage in young athletes and its implications.

41:15 How can we protect young athletes from getting injured?

43:30 How the shift toward college baseball affects player development and injury rates.

51:00 Lessons about pitching durability from Verlander, Scherzer, and others.

01:01:00 The biggest mistake young players make.

01:03:00 Eric's most important advice for young athletes.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more from Eric Cressey HERE

Learn more about High School Athlete Nutrition HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Eric Cressey: @ericcressey

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Understanding Youth Baseball Development with Steve Bernhardt, VP of Baseball Operations for Baseball Factory Oct 01, 2024

Get ready to learn the mindset, strategies, and steps every young player and parent needs to navigate the competitive world of baseball. In this episode, I sit down with Steve Bernhardt, Vice President of Baseball Operations at Baseball Factory, to dive into the realities of player development, recruiting, and how to overcome adversity in baseball. He shares advice for players and parents on how to navigate the challenges of pursuing a baseball career, including strategies to stand out when you're not the top recruit and faced with rejection. We also discuss the role of parents, how to build a development plan to stay on track, and tips to balance baseball with life off the field.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet the Chief Baseball Officer of Baseball Factory, Steve Bernhardt.

04:45 Advice for players on taking initiative.

09:00 How to frame setbacks as "rocket fuel" to propel a player's future success.

10:00 How did you become a professional baseball player?

12:45 Baseball Factory's approach to developing players.

18:30 What parents and players need to know about college opportunities.

21:00 How COVID-19 and the transfer portal have made the recruiting process even more competitive.

23:45 Why parents and players should focus on development first vs exposure.

27:00 What quality practice looks like.

29:45 What are you looking for when making your initial evaluation of a player?

33:00 The approach for making players better athletes and people.

36:00 How to set long-term goals with your athlete.

42:45 What is Baseball Factory's game plan?

49:45 How intentional practice helps players execute in game situations.

54:00 Steve's top advice to differentiate yourself as a player.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Get Expert Baseball Training HERE

For direct inquiries, you can reach out to Bernhardt at bernhardt@baseballfactory.com

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

12 Seasons: A Major League Player's Story of Resilience and Redemption with Jamie Westbrook Sep 24, 2024

Get ready for an inspiring story of what happens when you don't give up on your big dream. In this episode, I sit down with Jamie Westbrook, a.k.a. "The Barrel Man," who spent over 11 seasons in the minors before reaching the big leagues. Jamie shares advice on managing performance pressures, staying focused during tough times, and why resilience is key to long-term success. We explore how to build a strong mental approach, turn setbacks like injuries into growth opportunities, and how parents and players develop the right mindset to thrive through the ups and downs of a season.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet Jamie Westbrook, a.k.a. The Barrel Man.

05:30 Strategies to stand out if you're an undersized player.

13:30 How to keep moving forward when things don't go as planned.

15:00 The mindset to help your kids develop for competition.

16:30 What do parents and athletes need to know to navigate the college recruiting process?

25:00 How the energy in lower-level vs. higher-level teams impact a player's experience.

33:15 Jamie's top advice after spending multiple seasons in Double-A.

37:45 Tips to maintain a strong mindset despite setbacks.

46:15 How playing in the Olympics freed Jamie from the pressures of minor league expectations.

50:30 What was the transition like returning to minor league baseball after the Olympics?

53:45 How analytics refine your baseball approach.

01:02:15 Lessons on bouncing back from family challenges.

01:05:15 How does your life outside of baseball impact your performance?

01:08:30 Tips for young athletes to deal with setbacks constructively.

01:10:15 The best support parents can provide without adding pressure.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Jamie Westbrooke: @jwesunderscore4

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

How to be a Professional with Major League 3rd Base Coach, J.R. House Sep 17, 2024

Does your athlete want to excel in multiple sports? In this episode, I'm joined by the phenomenal J.R. House, the current third base coach for the Cincinnati Reds. He was an exceptional high school baseball player in Florida and football player in West Virginia, setting numerous state records as a quarterback. He shares how playing multiple sports is beneficial to players. He also breaks down tips on how to overcome the mental and physical challenges of injury recovery, how to deal with failures, and MORE. Get ready to build your athletic versatility.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet the record-breaker of West Virginia, J.R. House.

05:45 Benefits from playing multiple sports.

08:30 The biggest adjustment you have to make as a player.

12:30 How did you overcome injuries at a young age?

21:00 The challenges of transitioning to coaching.

25:30 How do you communicate with players' parents (esp. the controlling ones)?

28:00 The BTS preparation of big leaguers.

31:00 Top tip to have a great relationship with your teammates and coaches.

34:15 The biggest difference between players before vs now.

40:15 How should players deal with possible failures?

46:00 What's your advice on aspiring baseball players?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Building Champions: Long Beach State Head Coach Tj Bruce on College Baseball, Recruiting, and Leadership Sep 10, 2024

The world of college baseball has turned into a complete business. Today's guest is my good friend and newly appointed head baseball coach at Long Beach State, TJ Bruce. He's here to share his thoughts on the similarities between college baseball and professional baseball. We also dive into the most important thing to make sure your athlete develops and what separates players that make it to the pros. Tj also shares the challenges posed by the transfer portal and an inside look at his recruiting process so you know what colleges are looking for in your athlete. Tune in to learn more about the "Dirtbag" culture that fosters growth, both on and off the field.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet the new head coach of the Long Beach State baseball program, Tj Bruce.

04:45 TJ Bruce's background and journey as a player.

11:15 Challenges of starting as a volunteer coach.

17:15 How do you know when is the right time to retire?

22:00 Why did you choose to step down as the Head Coach of Nevada?

26:45 What happened before and after you had your best offense at TCU?

32:45 The role of coaches in a player's development.

37:30 Advice to player's parents who are preparing for college baseball.

45:15 The culture that is bigger than the result of your game.

50:15 The biggest misconception players have about the transition from college to making it to the pros.

53:00 What characteristics are you looking for to determine if a player is a good fit for your program?

01:00:30 How do you deal with the transfer portal?

01:07:45 Advice to players in handling communication about the draft process.

01:13:30 What does Long Beach's nickname "dirtbags" really represent?

01:18:30 Questions that players should reflect on.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Tj Bruce: @tjbruce02

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

College Recruiting 101 with Joe Oliveira Sep 03, 2024

Ready to take the next step in your player's college baseball journey? In this episode, Joe Oliveira, founder of Oliveira Baseball Consulting, shares his experience as a college 3-time All-Conference player himself to his approach helping families navigate the college recruiting process. We cover tips to manage expectations in the draft process, the pros and cons of the college baseball transfer portal, and the current state of NIL in college baseball. Get ready to know the best practices for showcasing talent and finding the right college for your athlete!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The man behind the Oliveira Baseball Consulting.

05:45 How it's like coaching at San Diego State under Tony Gwynn.

12:15 How do you evaluate individual players and families?

18:45 The process of working with college baseball programs.

23:15 How do you manage player expectations during the draft process?

28:00 The pros and cons of the transfer portal.

35:15 The most frequent question about NIL.

38:45 Advice for players and families on attending showcases and camps.

44:45 The common mistake families make with the college recruiting process.

48:15 What advice would you give to these parents on taking video?

52:15 What advice do you give to players before going to the showcase?

55:00 Suggested questions for players/families to ask colleges during first contact.

37:45 Best way to respectfully handle calls with schools when a player chooses not to attend.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Oliviera Baseball Co. HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Scouting In The World of Travel Baseball with Jered Goodwin Aug 27, 2024

Let's dive into the world of travel sports. In this episode, I sit down with Jered Goodwin, the VP of Scouting Operations at Perfect Game, to explore the intricate world of travel baseball and player development. He shares over two decades of experience in high school and travel ball. We dive deep into the indispensable role that dedicated coaches play in a player's journey, offering insights that often go unnoticed by scouts. We delve into the Perfect Game ranking system, the mental aspect of the game, and how players should engage in self-reflection, identifying personal strengths and areas for improvement. Tune in to learn the balanced approach that prioritizes player development alongside competitive success.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Jered's journey as a player.

03:15 How did you utilize your experience as a player and a coach to scouting?

05:45 The perks of mentorship in youth sports.

09:30 Why development and teamwork important than relying on scoreboard results.

13:00 The BTS work, goals, and mission of Perfect Game.

17:15 Why you should prioritize development and showcasing skills over exposure?

23:00 How Perfect Game rankings are created?

30:45 How many times a year do players' re-rank.

34:00 How important is the national for being selected in the all-American game?

36:45 What should players do to prepare for the national?

41:15 How do you identify if a player has more potential than others?

01:02:00 What advice would you give to a 13 year old kid who wants to reach his potential?

01:06:00 Jered's advice to players being open to versatility.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Jered Goodwin: @jeredgoodwin3

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Key to a Major League Mindset with MLB Mental Strength Coach Brandon Guyer Aug 20, 2024

Are you training your mind with the same intensity as your body? Today's guest, former MLB player turned Mental Strength Coach and founder of Major League Mindset - Brandon Guyer, shares how your mental game accounts for 90-95% of your performance! Brandon is here to share expert tips to uplevel your mental game from mastering self-talk, to controlling the controllables, and cultivating a 'win or learn' mindset in high-pressure situations. Strengthening your mental game will not only help you overcome anxiety and fear, but perform at your BEST.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet former major league player turned mental strength coach, Brandon Guyer..

02:15 How important it is to have mindset training as early as possible?

07:00 How was the transition retiring from baseball to focusing on mental coaching?

13:15 Why is it important to separate your on-field and off-field identities?

16:00 What is the "Major League Mindset"?

20:30 Tools and techniques to perform in a high-pressure situation.

30:00 Four main barriers players need to unlock to reach their potential.

36:30 The mindset that will guarantee you always win.

46:00 The nuances of implementing specific mental training exercises.

52:00 What is Neuro Linguistic Programming?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Major League Mindset HERE

CLICK HERE to listen MAJOR LEAGUE MINDSET PODCAST on Spotify

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Brandon Guyer: @bguyer5

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Exploring The Rise of Arm Injuries, Protecting Young Athletes, and Arm Care 101 with Dr. Keith Meister Aug 13, 2024

Did you know there's an alarming increased rate of arm injuries in baseball? In this episode I'm joined by Orthopedic Surgeon and head physician for the Texas Rangers, Dr. Keith Meister as we dive into the challenges pitchers face today, the spike in Tommy John surgery, and what we can do to protect young athletes. and the suggested solutions that can be taken to ensure their health.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet the doctor who's done over 2000 elbow ligament reconstructions.

03:00 Factors that contribute to most injuries in baseball.

10:15 The wear and tear pitching is causing and if pitchers can avoid it.

14:00 Bans in the MLB that are increasing injury rates.

16:30 What's the cause of the increase in UCL (Ulnar Collateral Ligament) reconstructions?

20:30 Potential solutions to avoid potential injuries in baseball.

25:00 How long is the recovery process after Tommy John surgery?

35:00 Signs you may need Tommy John surgery.

36:15 Top resources families should read to educate yourself on potential injuries.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Pro MLB Player Turned Financial Advisor: What Every Athlete Needs to Protect Their Wealth with Jacob Turner Aug 06, 2024

How early should I be thinking about getting a financial advisor? Today's guest has a unique perspective as both a player AND financial advisor and we're giving you the knowledge you need to navigate finances in the world of pro baseball. My friend, Jacob Turner, a pro player with the Detroit Tigers, Miami Marlins, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Washington Nationals turned financial advisor knows what you need to protect and secure your wealth for the future. We dive into the top 3 questions you should ask a potential advisor, and what families need to know about the draft process and signing bonuses.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet MLB player turned Financial Advisor, Jacob Turner.

03:15 How to know the best financial decisions for your athlete vs taking generic advice.

08:45 One thing you should consider when choosing an investment strategy.

13:15 The reason why Jacob transitioned from baseball.

23:45 Questions to ask when hiring an agent and financial advisor.

29:30 The difference between broker-dealers vs registered investment advisors.

33:00 Top 3 questions to ask your financial advisor.

37:15 What families should know about the draft process and the true value of a signing bonus.

45:45 The common struggle older players face in a youth-driven league.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Moment Private Wealth HERE

10 Questions To Ask A Financial Advisor HERE

How To Choose A Financial Advisor HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Jacob Turner on IG: @thejacob_turner

Jacob Turner on X: @TheJacobTurner

Jacob Turner on YT: @TheJacobTurner

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Advocate: @the.advocatepodcast

Keys to Unlocking Your Mental Game with Pro NHL, NBA, and MLB Mental Skills Coach, Johan Martinez-Khalilian Jul 30, 2024

Athletes are constantly striving to push their limits and achieve peak performance. However, the road to success is often filled with challenges, and setbacks that can test even the most seasoned athlete. In this episode, Johan Martinez-Khalilian, shares the mental skills he teaches professional athletes in the NHL, NBA, and MLB for peak MENTAL performance. We dive into what a mental skills coach does to help players with their mindset, emotions, physical abilities, and even spiritual aspects so they can perform at their best. Listen in for ways to work out and improve your mental game to be able to support your athlete (and yourself!)

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 What's your role to a player's life as a mental skills coach?

10:15 The common pitfall athletes should avoid.

19:00 The "way of being" that will help players navigate obstacles.

22:00 How can parents help young athletes develop the ability to think for themselves?

28:30 A common way top level athletes think (and what surprised me about their confidence.)

30:45 What does integrity mean to you?

32:00 How to identify the gap between a player's current level vs desired goal.

40:00 How do you approach working with a younger player?

44:15 The three laws of human performance.

01:06:00 How can parents best support the development of young athletes?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Work with Johan HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Johan Martinez-Khalilian: @johanspeaks

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Hitting 101 with Major League Hitting Coach and Travel Baseball Parent, Alec Zumwalt Jul 23, 2024

Ever wonder what it takes to climb the ranks in professional baseball? In this episode, I am joined by my good friend, Alec Zumwalt, hitting coach for the Kansas City Royals. With a career that spans from player to scout to coach, Alec shares his experiences and personal stories from the field. We dive into the intricacies of professional baseball, the importance of development over exposure, and actionable advice for players at all stages of their careers. Get ready to know how big league hitters maintain their success!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 How Alec went from being a player, to pro scout, and finally hitting coach.

04:00 How do you balance your time as a coach and being a great Dad?

10:45 The role and responsibilities of a hitting coach in the major leagues.

18:00 The challenges of balancing family life with a demanding baseball career.

23:45 What advice would you give to young hitters?

33:15 The biggest adjustments when transitioning from amateur to professional baseball.

37:30 What's a good overload and under-load batting routine?

39:45 Top drills for lower half separation.

46:00 Alec's biggest takeaway from Josh Donaldson's technique.

49:00 The key element that helps hitters at the big league level.

53:30 Alec's biggest advice for young baseball players and their parents.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Advocate: @the.advocatepodcast

A Parent's Guide to What Scouts Look for In Travel Baseball Players with MLB Scout, Alex McClure Jul 18, 2024

Want to know how to attract the attention of scouts and maximize opportunities to play at the next level? In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Alex McClure, a West Coast cross checker for the Detroit Tigers. Alex provided incredible insight into the world of baseball scouting, sharing what scouts look for in both pitchers and position players. You'll learn the different levels of scouts within an MLB organization, how they work together to identify top talent, and the importance of developing personal relationships with players and their families. Alex emphasizes that scouts are looking for in players, on and off the field.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 What did the transition look like going from pro player to MLB scout?

05:45 Why did you decide to transfer during your college career?

10:00 The role organizations, scouts, and agents play in a player's growth on and off the field.

15:15 Different types of scouts and what the job entails.

23:45 What should parents prioritize to make sure their player is seen?

30:00 Is it valuable when kids play multiple sports? (And do you watch them compete in other sports?)

41:15 What is your scouting process?

47:45 How many times do you feel like you need to see an athlete?

54:30 Things teams look at on and off the field from social media to their home life.

01:00:11 Questions parents and players should be asking scouts.

01:04:00 Advice for what parents and players should prioritize during summers.

01:17:00 What role does an agent play in the athletes career?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

The Advocate: @the.advocatepodcast

Alex McClure: @alexmcclure

Austin Riley on Youth Baseball, College Recruitment, and MLB Success Jul 16, 2024

This episode is your survival guide from your young athlete's crazy summer schedules to the mental and physical preparation it takes to sign and thrive in the big league. In this episode I sit down with my client and friend, Braves superstar Austin Riley to discuss his journey from youth baseball to negotiating and signing a life changing contract in MLB. Austin shares invaluable lessons on developing your skills, whether your young athlete should be involved in multiple sports, and navigating the recruiting process. He also provides a behind-the-scenes look at his contract negotiations with the Braves and how he prioritizes being a husband, father, growing his brand, and developing as a player in his career. If you want real tips for the journey to pro baseball, and what set Austin apart in each stage got him to where he is today - you don't want to miss this episode.

00:00 Austin Riley's journey from youth baseball to the pros.

09:00 Should young athletes play multiple sports?

13:34 What age do youth baseball players start hearing from college and pro scouts?

23:30 Things parents can do to set their athlete up for success.

29:00 Tips for choosing a player advisor you can trust.

31:15 What is the college recruitment and commitment process like?

37:00 Pros of playing college baseball and navigating draft decisions.

39:00 Making off-field money and its impact on on-field performance.

45:15 How do you balance prioritizing your career, growing your brand, and endorsements?

49:45 Sacrifices and work ethic through the demands of the summer schedule that made a difference to where Austin is today.

52:00 What did your parents guide you to do that was a factor in your success?

55:15 The most influential moment during the draft experience that changed how Austin showed up.

01:00:00 How did you handle the mental pressure of proving yourself in the minor league?

01:04:00 The time Austin made himself impossible for the major league to ignore.

01:10:00 Turning down a $100M offer, and what the negotiation process was like.

01:16:00 Qualities the best of the best players have that sets them apart.

01:22:15 How do you balance being an amazing husband and father as you travel for your career?

01:27:00 How has your life changed since signing your contract?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Austin Riley: @austin_riley27

Breaking Into the Business of Baseball from College Player to Top Agent Jul 16, 2024

Ready for the tools and knowledge to guide your player on their journey to pro baseball? I'm Matt Hannaford, and in this very first episode of "The Advocate," you'll get an inside look at my journey from aspiring baseball player to top-notch sports agent. I was interviewed by my podcast producer about the grit and persistence it took to break into the business, lessons I've learned working with some of the biggest names in the game, and why I decided to create a new kind of agency. If you're a competitive baseball player or a parent of one, this episode is packed with insights on navigating the business side of baseball, the importance of personalized representation, and how to truly advocate for a player's unique needs and goals. Tune in to understand what it means to be a true advocate in sports and how you can apply these principles to achieve excellence both on and off the field.

00:00 How did you get your start in the industry as a baseball agent?

03:30 Red flags of traditional sports agencies and how to get better support for your player.

06:15 How to know if an agent is putting the players best interest before their own.

11:15 How important is it to focus on the mental preparation of baseball.

13:30 Ways to support your athlete to reach their full potential.

16:30 What role does an agent play in a players life and career?

19:40 How much time do you get to spend with your players?

22:30 Educating and advising players on what deal is best for them long term.

30:48 How do you help players not take it personally when GMs come in with low numbers?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Welcome to The Advocate Podcast! Jul 12, 2024

This is your go-to source for navigating the world of Major League Baseball and your road to get there. I'm Matt Hannaford, a former collegiate baseball player turned agent to some of the game's best major league players. Each week we immerse ourselves in the world of baseball like never before. We'll we go behind the scenes with pro players, scouts, and more pulling back the curtain on the business of baseball. Get ready for everything you need to support your athlete every step of the way from developing as a player to navigating the major league.

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