Episodes

College baseball is evolving faster than ever. The NCAA’s new eligibility model, potential MLB Draft changes, and the continued impact of the transfer portal are reshaping the recruiting landscape. For players and parents, understanding these changes is no longer optional—it’s essential. In this episode of Fungos & Footnotes, Addison and Coach T discuss what these developments mean and how families can respond with wisdom instead of panic. What Changed? The NCAA has shifted from the traditio...

Episode 11: 5 Moments That Shape a Player (And How Not to Get Them Wrong) Baseball development isn’t just about mechanics, velocity, exit speed, or batting average. Some of the most important moments in a player’s journey happen away from the field—in the conversations, reactions, and relationships surrounding the game. In this episode of Fungos & Footnotes, Addison Williams and Coach T discuss five critical moments that shape a player’s confidence, identity, and long-term relationship with b...

Player Etiquette: How You Show Up What separates talented players from trusted teammates? In this episode of Fungos & Footnotes, Addison Williams and Coach T break down the silent tests every coach is constantly evaluating — whether players realize it or not. From showing up early and hustling on and off the field to body language, coachability, emotional control, and respecting the game, this episode dives into the habits that impact playing time, leadership opportunities, recruiting, and lo...

Talent might get you on the roster — but character gets you on the field. In this episode, Addison and Coach T break down why the players coaches trust the most aren’t always the most talented — they’re the best teammates. From work ethic and body language to dugout presence and baseball IQ, this episode gives players and parents a clear roadmap to earning more opportunities and becoming indispensable to their team. Key Takeaways Coaches value character over talent Work ethic, attitude, coac...

The lineup card can build you… or break you — depending on how you see it. In this episode of Fungos & Footnotes, host Addison Williams and Coach T (Corey Thornton) pull back the curtain on what lineup decisions really mean — and what they don’t. Too often, players attach their identity to a spot in the order. Parents read into it. Coaches feel pressure around it. But the truth? The lineup isn’t about labels — it’s about roles, matchups, and helping a team function at its highest level. This e...

Most youth practices look busy — but busy isn’t the same as productive. In this episode, Addison and Coach T break down what separates great practices from average ones. From maximizing a single cage to building real game instincts on the field, this episode gives coaches, parents, and players a clear blueprint for development that actually transfers. <strong>What We Cover:</strong> <strong>Inside Practice</strong> <ul> <li>Why standing around kills development — and how to eliminate it</li>...

Fungos & Footnotes — Show Notes Episode: “Development Under Pressure” Hosts: Addison Williams & Coach T Episode Summary Private lessons are at an all-time high, but kids are more burned out than ever. Addison and Coach T explore the fine line between healthy development and harmful pressure in youth baseball — and how parents and coaches can tell the difference. Key Topics Covered 1. The Tipping Point — When Development Becomes Pressure Signs your player has hit the tipping point: dreadin...

Episode Overview Addison and Coach T break down Mike Matheny’s viral “Letter to the Parents” (circa 2005–2006), unpacking timeless truths about parent involvement in youth baseball—from rec ball to high school to college. What We Cover Introduction (0:00–3:31) The mission of Fungos & Footnotes: development, recruiting, mindset, leadership, and lessons that last beyond the final out Cold Open (0:25–3:31) Why Matheny’s letter still matters today A must-hear for parents, players, and coaches a...

Development vs. Winning: What Really Matters in Youth Baseball Your kid’s team just won the tournament. Rings are being handed out, everyone’s celebrating… but here’s the real question: Did the players actually get better? In Episode 3 of Fungos and Footnotes, we’re diving into the trap of youth baseball—where the system rewards winning, but often at the expense of true player development. In this episode: Why locking kids into positions too early limits their potential The hidden cost of ch...

Playing Time: What Actually Earns You Reps | Fungos and Footnotes EP 2 Playing time isn’t about talent alone—it’s earned through practice habits, attitude, and effort. In this episode, we break down what coaches actually look for, how to handle the bench, and why youth championships at 12 don’t matter as much as you think. Real talk for players, parents, and coaches. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 – Intro 0:25 – Why Playing Time Feels Personal (But Isn’t) 1:37 – Practice Habits: What Coaches Actually See...

Episode Title: Season Before the Season: Preparing Players, Parents & Coaches for Baseball Success Show Description: Welcome to the inaugural episode of Fungos and Footnotes – the podcast where baseball meets the deeper side of the game. This show is for players, parents, and coaches who care about more than just box scores. What We Cover: In this episode, hosts Coach Cory Thornton (57, 35 years of coaching experience including 18 years at the college level) and his co-host (34, former player ...