PODCAST

The Final Strike

Stephen Heckman

The final strike for your Orioles insights, updates and more

sports baseball

All Episodes

24:31

Orioles Shakeup: Craig Albernez Hired and Grayson...

The Final Strike ·

2025/11/19

Stephen Heckman breaks down the Orioles’ major offseason moves: the hire of new manager Craig Albernez and the surprising trade of Grayson Rodriguez to the Angels for right-handed power bat Taylor Ward.The episode examines Rodriguez’s injury history, Ward’s versatility and upside, implications for the rotation and roster logjams, and what fans should expect as the Orioles approach the winter meetings and spring training.

21:49

Orioles Reset: New Manager, Young Stars, and a Tough...

The Final Strike ·

2025/10/29

Stephen Heckman breaks down the Orioles' 2025 season: a disappointing 75–87 finish marked by injuries, a strained bullpen, and a -111 run differential.He highlights late-season call-ups who impressed—Samuel Basello, Dylan Beavers, and Jermiah Jackson—and discusses catching depth and defensive concerns. The episode covers the firing of Brandon Hyde and the surprise hiring of Craig Albernez as manager, why his catching and bullpen experience matters, and what to expect in the upcoming offseason as

68:03

From Camden Yards to the UK: O's Across the Pond...

The Final Strike ·

2025/09/12

Stephen Heckman of The Final Strike hosts Thomas from O's Across the Pond to discuss the Orioles, the UK fan community, and the growing international love for baseball.They review late-season momentum, breakout rookies, pitching depth, roster and contract decisions, and possible offseason moves including managerial and front-office considerations. The episode highlights scouting successes, cross-Atlantic fan engagement, and what to watch for Baltimore as it heads into the offseason and 2026.

57:52

Orioles Pipeline Watch: Top 30 Prospects Breakdown

The Final Strike ·

2025/08/20

Stephen Heckman and Zach dive into the Orioles' updated Top 30 prospects list, discussing recent call-ups (Samuel Bassello, Dylan Beavers), standout pitchers like Esteban Mejia and Michael Forrett, and the organization’s talent pipeline under GM Mike Elias.They debate rankings, injuries (Braxton Bragg, Grayson Rodriguez), position questions (Ike Irish, Enrique Bradfield) and what the minors suggest for Baltimore’s near-term roster and offseason choices.

56:20

Orioles' Trade Deadline: A Bold Leap Towards 2026

The Final Strike ·

2025/08/01

In this exciting episode, host Steven Heckman is joined by special guest Jared Watson, co-founder and chief editor of the Baltimore Battery, to break down the Baltimore Orioles' whirlwind of trades and moves on deadline day. The team has strategically let go of expiring contracts, acquiring a wealth of prospects to bolster their future roster, particularly focusing on pitching.Together, they dissect the details of major trades involving fan favorites like Cedric Mullins and discuss the prospects

13:12

Breaking Down the Orioles-Mets Trade: A Future Star...

The Final Strike ·

2025/07/25

In this special edition of the Final Strike Podcast, Stephen Heckman dives into the latest trade news involving the Baltimore Orioles, as Gregory Soto moves to the New York Mets. The Orioles acquire top prospect Wellington Aracena, a promising 20-year-old talent known for his impressive fastball and potential role as a starter or reliever. Stephen discusses the strategic implications of this trade for the Orioles, highlighting Aracena's ability to grow into a valuable player for the team in the

34:47

Inside the Orioles Draft Strategy with Zachary Bucklew

The Final Strike ·

2025/07/23

Join host Stephen Heckman and special guest Zachary Bucklew from the Baltimore Orioles in this engaging episode of The Final Strike Podcast. Stephen kicks off with quick injury updates, discussing the rehab assignments of players like Keegan Akin and Ryan Mountcastle. The conversation soon shifts to the Orioles' rocky start in the second half of the season and a detailed analysis of their recent draft strategy. Zachary shares his thoughts on the unexpected draft picks, focusing on players like Ike

26:47

Orioles' Wild Ride: All-Star Break Analysis

The Final Strike ·

2025/07/15

Join Stephen Heckman on the Final Strike Podcast as he delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the Baltimore Orioles at the 2025 All-Star break. Despite unexpected standing in the AL East, the Orioles remain in wild card contention. This episode explores trade prospects, player injuries, and strategic adjustments needed to push for a postseason run.Stephen also highlights the Baltimore Battery's coverage of recent drafts, player performances in the minor league system, and potential

25:35

Orioles' June Revival: Big Wins and Big Challenges

The Final Strike ·

2025/07/02

Welcome back to the Final Strike Broadcast! Host Stephen Heckman dives into the Baltimore Orioles' rollercoaster month, highlighting their first winning month of the season in June and the offensive breakthroughs that made it happen. The team posted impressive OPS stats and matched the league leaders in home runs, signaling a promising turnaround.However, it's not all smooth sailing as injuries have severely hit the team. Stephen details the struggles with players like Adley Rutschman and Zach

24:33

Baltimore Orioles: A Shift Towards Optimism

The Final Strike ·

2025/06/09

Join Stephen Heckman from the Baltimore Battery's "Final Strike," as he delves into the recent positive turn of events for the Orioles. Despite a challenging season, the team has been showing promising signs with a six-game winning streak and improvements in the wildcard standings.Explore the impact of players like Gunnar Henderson and Jackson Holliday, who are finding their rhythm, and the emergence of talents such as Kobe Mayo and Ryan O'Hearn. Heckman also highlights the pivotal changes brought

25:55

Baltimore Baseball: Small Ball and Big Moves

The Final Strike ·

2025/05/30

Join Stephen Heckman on the Final Strike Podcast as he discusses the recent developments in the Baltimore Orioles' season. Despite a shaky start, there's hope as the team experiences a three-game winning streak and adds veteran John Mabry to their coaching lineup. Stephen analyzes the team's struggles with offense, particularly with runners in scoring positions, and emphasizes the need for a greater focus on small ball tactics.The podcast also covers the impacts of recent roster changes and

27:57

From Triumph to Turmoil: Unpacking the Orioles' Woes

The Final Strike ·

2025/05/24

Join Stephen Heckman on the Final Strike Podcast as he delves into the recent tumultuous period for the Baltimore Orioles, following a game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite promising moments, rainouts, and a tough loss amplify the season's struggles. He discusses the pitching prowess of Cade Povich, bullpen breakdowns, and questions surrounding management decisions. The episode challenges fans to think critically about the team's current trajectory and invites them to share their thoughts

25:19

Baltimore Orioles Make Bold Move: Manager Brandon...

The Final Strike ·

2025/05/18

The latest episode of the Final Strike podcast brings shocking news from the Baltimore Orioles. In an unexpected move, the team has relieved Manager Brandon Hyde and Major League Field Coordinator Tim Cossins of their duties. Despite leading the Orioles through challenging times, Hyde's tenure ends after a disappointing start to the season.Stepping in as interim manager is Tony Manzolini, known for his aggressive coaching style. With the Orioles facing mounting challenges and a rigorous schedule,

26:32

Struggling to Stay Afloat: Navigating Rough Waters in...

The Final Strike ·

2025/05/10

Join Stephen Heckman on the Final Strike Podcast as he delves into the myriad challenges faced by the Baltimore baseball team this season. Despite a promising start, the team finds itself floundering with significant issues in both pitching and hitting. A recent series of losses, including a sweep by the Twins, has placed them on a five-game losing streak as they head to Anaheim for their next games.The episode takes a hard look at the team's current standings, their struggles against left-handed

26:19

Orioles' Resilience: Fighting Back in the AL East

The Final Strike ·

2025/05/02

Welcome to the Final Strike Podcast, presented by the Baltimore Battery. In this episode, host Stephen Heckman delves into the Orioles' recent series victory against the New York Yankees. With passionate gameplay and strategic pitches, the Orioles are narrowing the gap in the AL East standings, despite a challenging start to their season. Discover how players like Felix Bautista and Tamayuki Sagano are stepping up, showcasing incredible skills that are rekindling hope.The podcast also addresses

24:45

Failing Pitching Arms and Players' Accountability: An...

The Final Strike ·

2025/04/22

This episode of The Final Strike, hosted by Stephen Heckman and brought to you by The Baltimore Battery, delves into the Orioles’ rough patch this season. Coming off a brutal 24-2 loss, discussions touch on pitching woes, players’ accountability, and the struggle of maintaining form amidst significant injuries.The episode also questions the right time to enforce changes to the team this season and highlights player perspectives following the latest game. With a call for heightened effort and

32:15

Orioles Offense Struggles: A Deep Dive into Season...

The Final Strike ·

2025/04/06

In this episode of The Final Strike, Stephen Heckman from the Baltimore Battery dives into the current challenges faced by the Baltimore Orioles after their recent loss to the Kansas City Royals. With a disappointing start to the season, Heckman analyzes the team's offensive inconsistencies, specifically how they struggle to score runs during losses despite high run averages in their victories. Heckman also scrutinizes managerial decisions, including lineup choices and strategic plays that have

26:22

Opening Day Eve: Birdland's Countdown Begins!

The Final Strike ·

2025/03/27

Welcome to Episode 5 of The Final Strike, where host Stephen Heckman brings excitement on the eve of opening day. Sponsored by The Baltimore Battery, this episode dives into season predictions and the excitement surrounding the Orioles as they prepare to kick off against their AL East rival. With high hopes for the team's strong bullpen, hefty speed, and promising pitching lineup, Heckman explores how the Orioles might surprise fans this season, led by players like Zac Eflin and Dean Kramer

28:35

Injury Woes in Birdland: Cause for Concern?

The Final Strike ·

2025/03/13

Welcome to another episode of The Final Strike, brought to you by The Baltimore Battery. As we gear up for the upcoming baseball season, we delve into the latest updates on the Orioles' spring training developments. Notably, the episode addresses the growing concerns surrounding pitcher Grayson Rodriguez's recent tricep and elbow soreness and the steps being taken to mitigate these issues.We also explore the Orioles' pitching depth, including potential starters and relievers stepping up in light of

28:17

Birdland's Spring Training Updates: Injuries,...

The Final Strike ·

2025/03/09

Join Stephen Heckman for an exciting episode of The Final Strike, brought to you by the Baltimore Battery. After a brief hiatus due to illness, Stephen is back with the latest updates on the Orioles' spring training and what fans can look forward to in the upcoming season. Dive into detailed discussions about players' health, including precautions taken for key players like Gunnar Henderson and Jordan Westberg. Get insights into the Orioles' strategy for the Grapefruit League games and the

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The Final Strike

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