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

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/