Inside the Foul

Former MLB utility player Mike Freeman joins Chris and Ethan to reflect on a career built on versatility, preparation and persistence. He shares the long road from Clemson to the majors—including three drafts, a debut at 28 and stops with six organizations—plus what it takes to stay ready at every position, his transition to managing, and the lessons he’d give his younger self: embrace failure, keep going and dream bigger.

Chris and Ethan revisit their preseason MLB predictions to see what they got right—and spectacularly wrong. From the Rays’ and Brewers’ unexpected runs to the Mets’ collapse, small-market success and a debate over baseball’s competitive balance, they break down the season with plenty of friendly trash talk and look ahead to the World Series.

The final out has been recorded. The champagne has been sprayed. A champion has been crowned. But the story of the 2026 World Series goes far beyond the scoreboard.

🎙️ This week on Inside the Foul, Chris and Ethan break down a Fall Classic filled with history, unforgettable moments, record-breaking performances, and decisions that changed everything.

The Milwaukee Brewers have captured their first World Series championship in franchise history, but did they simply dominate October, or did the Tampa Bay Rays let their opportunity slip away?

🔥 IN THIS EPISODE:

⚾ History Made: Franchise firsts, broken rec...

The Dodgers just got exposed, and the real question is whether they lost a playoff series - or handed baseball its biggest salary-cap argument yet.Inside The Foul breaks down the chaos behind Milwaukee's statement win, from the Brewers' ruthless team-wide production to the weirdly flat energy from a superstar-laden Dodgers roster. If you care about playoff baseball, payroll politics, or why a team built on depth and discipline can embarrass a lineup full of names, this one is for you.You’ll hear Chris and Ethan go deep on:

The postseason chaos nobody wants to talk about, but every baseball fan needs to hear. Two salty hosts turn elimination pain into a brutally honest, wildly funny breakdown of why the playoffs expose everything - bad fundamentals, bad management, bad vibes, and why some teams just want it more. After getting bounced, Chris and Ethan don’t hold back. They go off on the Yankees’ postseason collapse, the problem with analytics overruling instinct, and why one superstar injury can’t explain a lineup that forgets how to hit, field, or execute the small stuff. They also pull apart the bigger...

Shane Green shares his journey from Claremont, Florida, to Major League Baseball, highlighting the challenges, adaptations, and mental resilience required to succeed at the highest level of baseball. Shane Greene shares insights into the mental toughness required for closing in baseball, the importance of mindset, and how to handle the pressures of high-stakes situations. This episode explores the mental side of sports, personal resilience, and strategies for success.

The secret behind elite wooden bats is not just craftsmanship—it’s patience, obsession, and a willingness to learn the hard way. John Vullo of Vullo Bat Company shares how a backyard hobby became an MLB-certified bat business trusted by pros, including the Chicago Cubs, and why the torpedo bat conversation has put his shop right in the middle of baseball’s latest evolution. Inside the Foul hosts Chris and Ethan dig into John’s full journey—from watching his dad build a local softball community in Newport, Washington, to coaching his son, to realizing he needed a new way to sta...

October baseball is all about the teams that survive, not the teams that merely looked best in April. Chris and Ethan break down the 2026 playoff picture, the clubs nobody wants to face, and the stars most likely to decide a World Series run when 162 games suddenly stop mattering.From the Rays’ small-ball identity to the Brewers’ October upside, from the Yankees’ pressure cooker to the Dodgers’ relentless championship expectations, this episode lays out exactly why postseason baseball feels like a different sport. Chris and Ethan dig into byes, bullpen management, short-series strategy, and why getting hot at the right time can...

The World Baseball Classic might be creating a hidden cost no one wants to talk about—and the numbers around some of baseball’s biggest names are impossible to ignore. From Cal Raleigh’s offensive drop, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s lost power, and Aaron Nola’s brutal season to the velocity concerns around Paul Skenes and the injury questions surrounding Tarik Skubal, this episode asks a simple but uncomfortable question: is March baseball leaving players carrying a hangover into the 162-game grind?Chris and Ethan break down the stats, the injuries, and the patterns player by player, separating coincidence from somet...

Inside the Foul sits down with Luke and traces the road from Georgia youth ball to River Ridge High School, Georgia Southern, Walters State, South Carolina, and eventually the Reds and Astros systems. Along the way, Luke opens up about injuries, the yips, the pressure of climbing the minor league ladder, and the moment he realized baseball development is as much about mindset and trust as it is about arm strength and metrics.You’ll discover how a catcher earns pitchers’ trust, why pitch selection became survival when his shoulder kept popping out, and what it really felt like to b...

Willie Wilson was fast, but speed was never the whole story. The Royals legend and 1982 American League batting champion reveals the baseball IQ behind 668 stolen bases, 41 career homers, and a career built on reading pitchers, taking pressure off his team, and knowing exactly when to run, hit, or hold.He also opens up about the overlooked details that made his game work: the tiny lead-off steps that kept him from getting picked off, the chin and heel tells he watched from the dugout, and why base stealing is about timing and patterns far more than raw wheels. If you...

In this episode of Inside the Foul, Chris, Ethan, and our buddy Christian Colon dig into one of the biggest debates in baseball right now: MLB’s plan to “level the playing field.” The conversation breaks down the proposed salary cap, salary floor, revenue split, and draft changes, but it also goes deeper into what those moves really mean for players, teams, and fans.he hosts discuss the trade deadline fallout, the business side of baseball, and the human side of being traded — from uprooting your life to proving yourself in a new city. Along the way, they debate whether...

Brian Fletcher’s story proves the best baseball journeys do not end when the uniform comes off. From being one of Georgia’s most exciting high school prospects to starring at Auburn, climbing all the way to Triple-A, and then reinventing himself as artist Fletch, this episode is about what it really takes to keep going when the dream changes.Inside the Foul goes beyond the box score with Brian as he breaks down the mindset that carried him from Stars Mill and East Cobb to Auburn, the Royals organization, and a first AAA at-bat that ended in a home...

Mitch Harris proves the impossible is often just improbable. The former Navy officer and St. Louis Cardinals pitcher shares how he spent five years serving his country, then fought all the way back to the majors and made history as the first Naval Academy graduate to appear in a MLB game since 1921.Inside the Foul hosts Chris and Ethan unpack the full story behind the two uniforms Mitch wore with pride, from his childhood Braves obsession to the drafting drama, the flight-deck bullpen sessions in the Persian Gulf, and the brutal reset of trying to rediscover his arm after...

Why every trader, fan, and fantasy player should pay attention to the chaos of this MLB trade season. As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the landscape is more unpredictable than ever. Will your favorite team make a bold move or stand pat? Inside the Foul breaks down the playoff picture, the biggest trade candidates, and which organizations are on the verge of a transformative move—potentially reshaping entire divisions before October. You’ll discover: The current standings and wild card races from every division, revealing surprises like the Pirates’ wild card push and the Royals’ tanking strategies. Key players worth tr...

Uncover the transformational journey of a Major League baseball player turned leader—proving perseverance outshines talent. Tom Kohler’s story isn't just about striking out hitters; it’s about overcoming setbacks, leading with integrity, and shaping the future of the game off the mound. If you're a baseball fan, aspiring athlete, or someone battling their own internal voice, this episode is your playbook for resilience and leadership. Most players are celebrated for their stats, but Tom’s real impact extends beyond the box score. From being a late-round draft pick and a grinder in the minors to a six-year MLB care...

Most baseball fans focus solely on the game — but what if the sport's true future lies in blending tradition with entertainment? Groundbreaking coach Tony Voro reveals how he's reshaping baseball with banana ball, a high-energy, fan-first movement that’s drawing packed stadiums, historic teams, and new generations of fans. From coaching legends like Jackie Bradley to innovating the game’s pace and plays, Tony shares how a love for the sport evolves when entertainment takes center stage.

In this episode, you'll discover how banana ball's lightning-fast pace, trick plays, and crowd interaction are revolutionizing the game, making it mor...

The MLB All-Star game sparks fierce debate every summer: Is it about honoring the best players or just the most popular? If you’re tired of the fluff and want the real truth behind snubs, setups, and misjudged rosters, this episode is your playbook. Inside the Foul dives deep into the controversial choices, fan voting frustrations, and what it really takes to earn your spot in baseball’s biggest showcase.

Join by former players Christian Colon helps Inside the Foul as they cut through the noise, exposing how analytics, market size, personality, and legacy influence All-Star selections more...

In this episode, Heath shares behind-the-scenes stories from some of baseball’s most iconic moments—like facing Barry Bonds and his unforgettable All-Star slide—plus he opens up about the mindset that kept him motivated through doubt and adversity. You’ll discover how he built his legendary career with a blend of focus and joy, why embracing personality in a sport that often asks players to hide it made him a respected figure, and how game-day routines like sprinting into the bullpen and touching the line kept him mentally sharp under pressure. You’ll also learn the surprising secrets Heath uses...

Uncover the passion, craftsmanship, and relentless determination behind Sacco Sports — a game-changing baseball glove company redefining tradition with innovation and heart. If you’ve ever wondered what truly sets a great glove apart or how a personal story of perseverance can inspire a brand, this episode is for you.

Michael Sacco’s journey begins in South Philly, inspired by a childhood love for baseball and driven by a quest for quality and authenticity. His story isn’t just about making gloves; it’s about honoring the game’s legacy, building relationships, and pushing through countless hurdles to turn a simpl...

Most incredible perseverance story in baseball? Jay Jackson spent 17 years chasing his dream, enduring setbacks, international adventures, and moments when quitting seemed easier than ever. Yet, against all odds, he finally cracked an MLB opening day roster at 35 — a milestone that proves belief and resilience can defy even the toughest odds. In this heartfelt episode, Jay shares how his relentless journey across continents, from minor leagues to Japan and back, shaped a mindset rooted in gratitude, discipline, and unwavering self-confidence. You'll discover how international baseball taught him invaluable lessons about fundamentals and discipline, and how facing adversity head-on turned se...

Most people unknowingly leave their most valuable moments running in the background — just like a truck left idling for hours. But what if that small oversight cost you more than you think? In this hilarious yet surprisingly insightful episode, we dive into the bizarre world of concert escapades, old-school memorabilia, and the unexpected lessons hiding in everyday missteps.Join us as we share stories from a Metallica concert where a truck was left running for six hours, revealing how tiny mistakes can have unexpected consequences — and how these moments can teach us about attention to detail, perseverance, and the valu...

Unlock the secrets to dominating your fantasy baseball league with strategies right from passionate players! Ever wonder how top contenders identify sleeper picks, manipulate the waiver wire, or craft trades that boost their chances? This episode breaks down real tactics from league veterans, including a deep dive into rookie prospects, buy-low gems like Tatis and Soto, and the absolute must-know player evaluation tips that could make or break your season.

Most companies overlook the crucial details that turn prospects into professional athletes. Drew Martinez, a fundamentals coach for the San Francisco Giants, reveals the game-changing principles behind developing not just great players, but trustworthy leaders. In a candid conversation, Drew takes us inside the gritty world of player development—from managing 16-year-olds in the Dominican Summer League to cultivating habits, resilience, and leadership in the minors. You'll discover how foundational skills like playing catch, mastering basic defense, and building mental toughness are the real keys to success—not just the flashy tools like exit velocity or spin rate. Drew shar...

Unlock the genius behind building legendary baseball teams across eras! In this fiery episode, Inside the Foul’s Chris and Ethan challenge the idea of the greatest teams of all time, crafting unstoppable lineups from the 90s, 2000s, and beyond. Imagine pitting Barry Bonds against today’s pitching giants or building a roster so powerful it could dominate any era—well, they do just that. Discover the secret strategies, iconic player picks, and debates that reveal what truly makes a team legendary—and why marketing your star players is as crucial as their skills.

Are we witnessing the decl...

Unlock the genius behind building legendary baseball teams across eras! In this fiery episode, Inside the Foul’s Chris and Ethan challenge the idea of the greatest teams of all time, crafting unstoppable lineups from the 90s, 2000s, and beyond. Imagine pitting Barry Bonds against today’s pitching giants or building a roster so powerful it could dominate any era—well, they do just that. Discover the secret strategies, iconic player picks, and debates that reveal what truly makes a team legendary—and why marketing your star players is as crucial as their skills.

Are we witnessing the decl...

Most baseball fans don’t realize how much the rules, standings, and roster strategies can change the game—until a savvy insider drops the secrets that could save a team’s season. In this outspoken episode, hosts Chris and Ethan break down everything from controversial ump calls and hidden league strategies to the wild realities of Major League Baseball’s current landscape. If you've ever wondered why some teams succeed against all odds, or how a franchise can turn their season around in a heartbeat, this episode is your inside look.

With their signature mix of humor and insi...

In this fun and heartfelt episode, Ryan Williams and Connor Peters from the Popcorn Runners share what it’s like to be part of a baseball team that’s all about community, creative rivalries, and having a good time. From the surprise of getting drafted to their team’s quirky rivalries—like the "baked goods showdown"—they reveal how personality and teamwork beat traditional skills every time. You'll discover how these players balance baseball with life outside the sport, build chemistry on and off the field, and turn everyday moments into memorable team traditions.

You’ll also hear their p...

Most players give up on their dreams after hitting a few bumps in the road. Joe Capagna shows us what it truly means to grind your way to the top, overcoming setbacks, injury, and doubt—proving that perseverance beats pedigree. His journey from college standout at D2 Slippery Rock to independent league batter to Double-A star is one you won't believe until you hear it.

You'll discover how versatility became Joe’s secret weapon—playing every position, catching, and thriving in each role—without losing confidence. We break down his gritty approach: betting on yourself when no guarante...

Most players rely on talent alone to stay in the big leagues — Logan Morrison proves it’s all about mindset, adaptation, and relentless perseverance. With over a decade of MLB experience, Morrison reveals the unglamorous truths behind surviving, thriving, and evolving at baseball’s highest level.

From his humble beginnings moving around with a Coast Guard family to becoming a veteran who hit 38 homers in a career year, Morrison shares behind-the-scenes stories that matter. Hear how he navigated the Major League grind, adjusted to the shifting landscape of analytics, and battled personal tragedy—all while maintaining his fire and...

Most young athletes dream of turning pro—but what does it really take to make that leap from the minor leagues to the big stage? Tommy O'Dell and Xander Vigil share their wild journey from college ball to being drafted by the Dolanet Steelers of the JCB, revealing the behind-the-scenes moments, the setbacks they faced, and the energy they're bringing to the field this season. Discover how these team-oriented players tackle failure, build chemistry from hundreds of miles apart, and aim to leave a lasting impact on their sport—and the world.You'll learn:

Most umpires are human, but in baseball, even the slightest mistake can turn into a viral controversy. CB Buckner and Mark Wagner have become symbols of frustration, with missed calls and blown plays that ignite debates across the baseball community. This week, you’ll discover how human error and the relentless spotlight on umpires are creating a new era of accountability — or lack thereof — and what it means for the integrity of the game.

Inside, we break down the debate around Automated Ball and Strike Systems (ABS) — the technology that promises consistency but raises questions about the human el...

Most baseball fans see the game’s glamour on TV, but Erasmo Ramirez’s journey reveals the grit, resilience, and adaptation it truly takes to stay in the pros for over a decade. From humble beginnings in Nicaragua—dreaming of being a doctor—to debuting in the Major Leagues at 21, Erasmo’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, humility, and evolving as a player and person.

In this episode, Erasmo shares the raw realities behind the highlights: what it feels like to be sent down, DFA'd, traded, and to constantly reinvent himself to stay competitive. You'll discover: how he tur...

In this episode, we break down Netflix's worries to stream Opening Day smoothly, why certain lineup decisions are risking star power, and how the MLB power rankings are shaping up—spoiler: some teams are overhyped, others undervalued. Ethan shares his frustrations with the Yankees' roster shuffles, the Braves’ pitching concerns, and the Mets’ shaky start, revealing what it really takes to stay competitive in 2026.

You'll discover: why streaming platforms continue to struggle with live events despite decades of experience, the impact of spring training surprises on season predictions, and the real story behind the WBC—did Team USA miss...

In this electrifying episode, Nolan shares how a casual wiffle ball experiment transformed his pitching style, leading to record-setting high school saves, rollercoaster college years, and a professional career that zigzagged through indie leagues and international play. You’ll discover how he turned setbacks into stepping stones, learned to thrive under pressure, and developed the mental resilience that kept him grinding through grind-heavy independent ball.

We break down:

How playing in the Northwoods League and battling through injury shaped his approach to success

The adrenaline rush of matching up against former MLB stars in...

⚾ INSIDE THE FOUL PODCAST – NEW EPISODE 🎙️

Most baseball fans don’t realize how much strategy, passion, and behind-the-scenes brilliance goes into every pitch… until they hear the real stories.

In this episode, best friends Ethan & Chris take you inside the chaos, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments from WBC tryouts, spring training battles, and the road to the season’s start.

If you’re tired of surface-level commentary and want real baseball storytelling, this is your behind-the-plate seat.

🔥 In this episode we dive into:

• The emotional journeys of players chasing their dreams

• How eli...

ost baseball fans are ready for the season to start — but Chris and Ethan are here for the real game: the unconventional, hilarious, and fiercely opinionated top 10 lists that define the sport. This year, they’re diving deep into MLB’s most controversial player rankings, from starting pitchers to outfielders, with no hold barred. You’ll discover why some vets are still underrated, how those lists often miss hidden gems, and why calling out the biases is half the fun.Tune in as they break down the biggest snubs and surprises—like why Shohei Otani’s battering prowess could make him an...

Most companies overlook the power of heritage and international connections—until now. Carmine Gangoni and Chris Vaccaro reveal how building a pipeline between Italian culture and baseball is transforming opportunities for a new generation of athletes. This episode uncovers the untapped potential in international talent scouting, grassroots development, and how sports diplomacy can bridge continents—and histories.Discover how the Italian American Baseball Foundation is reshaping the future of baseball in Italy and beyond, one scholarship and one connection at a time. You'll learn the unique challenges Italian prospects face—limited exposure, infrastructure gaps, and scouting hurdles—and how innovati...

Most players' careers are defined by their talent or stats — Delino Deshields Jr. reveals the raw, unfiltered truth behind a life in baseball built on speed, resilience, and staying true to yourself. When the game forces you into unfamiliar territory — from position changes to unexpected deployments — how do you keep your passion alive and carve out your own legacy? Delino shares the behind-the-scenes stories of navigating pressure, family expectations, injuries, and the relentless grind to remain in love with a sport that humbles everyone.

You'll discover the importance of embracing failure early in your career and how it acc...

Uncover the relentless mindset, grit, and adaptive skills behind Jacksonville’s own Nathan Hickey as he navigates the brutal journey from high school standout to professional catcher on the cusp of the big leagues. Nathan reveals how he transforms failures into fuel, what it truly takes to develop at the highest levels, and how to thrive in a sport designed to test your mental and physical limits. This episode isn’t just about baseball — it’s a masterclass in resilience, discipline, and strategic growth for aspiring athletes and sports fans alike.

Starting from his roots in Jacksonville, Nathan s...