Podcast
The Dirty Fish Podcast
Hosted by Jeff Matlock · EN
The Dirty Fish Podcast covers the Solano Mudcats Baseball Club, which is a summer collegiate baseball team located in Fairfield, CA (Solano County). The Mudcats are part of the Pacific Empire League, a premiere summer collegiate league on the West Coast. Join your hosts, Jeff Matlock & Shawn Scibek, as they talk about all things Mudcats.
We'll discuss the history of the team, upcoming events, baseball camps, and team news. We plan to interview Mudcats Hall of Fame players, former & current coaches, players, and staff on how the Mudcats influenced their lives and careers.
8episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Inside the Pacific Empire League: Teams, Tech, and Talent
4w ago00:37:25Tap to summarizeSummaryJoin your Dirty Fish Podcast hosts, Jeff Matlock and Shawn Scibek, as they explore the Pacific Empire League. They discuss the teams, leadership, and innovative technology that is transforming collegiate summer baseball. Discover insights into league formation, player development, and behind-the-scenes operations that make this league a rising star in summer sports.KeywordsPacific Empire League, collegiate baseball, summer baseball, baseball technology, player development, league leadership, baseball teams, sports innovationKey topicsLeague formation and leadershipTeam profiles and rivalriesInnovative baseball technology and analyticsTakeawaysThe Pacific Empire League was formed to provide high-caliber competition for college players.League leadership includes passionate individuals like Natalie Norman, Ben Crombie, Matthew Lundgren, Kyle Gross, Joey Gomes, Dave May, and Eric Giacone. Advanced technology like Trackman and Synergy Sports enhances player development and scouting. The league features top-tier players from D1, D2, D3, and JUCO programs.Teams like the Healdsburg Prune Packers, Lincoln Potters, and the Humboldt Crabs have strong traditions and fan support.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Dirty Fish Podcast03:40 Upcoming Events and Mudcats News06:48 Overview of the Pacific Empire League09:47 League Leadership and Structure12:51 Quality of Competition in the PEL15:49 Technological Advancements in Player Development18:35 Teams in the Pacific Empire League21:26 Summer Baseball Experience23:40 Humboldt Crabs: A Unique Atmosphere27:33 Medford Rogue: New Beginnings29:34 Marysville Giants: A Nostalgic Rivalry31:28 Ski-isms: Wisdom from the Field35:07 Looking Ahead: The Future of the League37:09 Podcast Outro 2.mp4ResourcesPacific Empire League: https://www.pacificempireleague.orgTrackman - https://trackman.comSynergy Sports - https://synergysports.comPresto Sports - https://prestosports.com
Transcribe →
Jared Carr: From Solano Mudcats Pitcher to High School Head Coach
Apr 501:03:19Tap to summarizeMost high school coaches dream of coaching at the next level, but Jared Carr's journey from Solano Mudcats pitcher to varsity head coach at Will C. Wood High School proves that dedication, humility, and a deep love for the game aren't bound by age or experience. This episode reveals the behind-the-scenes stories of his rise, from playing at Vanden High School, Butte College, and Holy Names University to mentoring young athletes and building a coaching philosophy rooted in fundamentals and culture.You'll discover: how Jared's playing career shaped his coaching style; what it's like to transition from college player to high school leader; and the vital lessons he learned as a Student Manager at Oregon State University under legendary coaches like Pat Casey. We break down the importance of developing a strong team culture, long-term community engagement, and the challenges of coaching young talent facing faster speeds and higher expectations. Plus, hear hilarious stories from road trips, behind-the-scenes game moments, and the unexpected camaraderie that makes baseball more than just a sport.This episode matters because coaching at the high school level is more than wins and losses — it’s about shaping future generations. Jared's insights provide actionable advice for aspiring coaches, players, and sports enthusiasts eager to understand what it really takes to succeed in baseball and life. If you're passionate about the game or dedicated to mentorship, this conversation will inspire you to look beyond the scoreboard and focus on the intangible lessons that truly matter.With years of experience in big-time college programs and a clear vision for community-based growth, Jared Carr exemplifies the future of high school baseball coaching. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or fan, you'll walk away with a renewed appreciation for the game’s timeless fundamentals and the power of leadership grounded in integrity and love for baseball.Join us as Jared shares the moments that truly define his journey—the wins, the road trips, and the ongoing mission to build a legacy that lasts far beyond the diamond.
Transcribe →Ep. #5: Meet The Voices Behind The Dirty Fish Podcast
Mar 700:41:06Tap to summarizeThe podcast episode covers a range of topics including upcoming Mudcats events, future opportunities for Mudcats involvement, sponsorship, past guest recaps, upcoming guest ideas, coaching history and experience, and a discussion about the journey of coaching and baseball, standout players, coaching philosophy, player development, the mental aspects of baseball, and engaging with Mudcats fans and potential guests on the podcast. It emphasizes the importance of hustle, hard work, and the coaching philosophy that focuses on attitude and effort.TakeawaysCommunity involvementBaseball coachingGuest interviews Importance of hustle and hard workMental aspects of baseballCoaching philosophy and player developmentChapters00:00 Welcome to the Dirty Fish Podcast00:59 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement05:21 Reflections on Past Guests11:12 Coaching Journey and Experiences20:24 Building Friendships Through Baseball22:13 Coaching Journey and Experiences24:06 Transitioning to Varsity Coaching25:03 The Impact of Coaching on Players26:40 Standout Players and Memorable Moments34:37 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development
Transcribe →Ep. #4: Little League to Banana Ball-Bronson Balholm's Playbook for Success and Giving Back (Part 2)
Feb 2000:47:57Tap to summarizeMost players have a straight line to professional baseball from high school, to college, to the pros, but Bronson Balholm took a different route — from swinging at baseballs at age three to catching laser-fast pitches, then transforming his love for physics into a mission to inspire the next generation. In this episode, you'll discover how Bronson’s unique blend of athletic talent, scientific curiosity, and entrepreneurial spirit is redefining how we see sports and education.We break down Bronson’s inspiring journey: from early days swinging Wiffle Ball bats with his family, to growing up a Dodgers fan and understanding the catcher’s role as the 'general' on the field. He shares vivid stories of battling in Little League, facing tough opponents in high school with future MLB stars, and balancing a physics degree at Beloit College while still dreaming of pro baseball. You'll explore how the level of competition pushed him to rise, embrace resilience, and develop grit that took him from the D3 fields to the Pac-12 at Arizona State.In addition, this episode uncovers the secret sauce behind Banana Ball’s rapid rise — including viral tryouts, wild crowds in Savannah and across the nation, and lessons learned in moments of chaos like stadium blackouts and celebrity encounters. Bronson reveals how physics and sports are intertwined, teaching kids STEM through baseball, and creating ripples of kindness called "Catch Kindness." Whether you're an athlete, educator, or just someone hungry for inspiration, you'll walk away with tangible ideas to blend passion with purpose.Why does this matter? Because Bronson’s story demonstrates that unconventional paths — powered by passion, perseverance, and a mission to make others better — can lead to extraordinary results. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who's ever doubted mixing science with sport or wondered how to make a real impact beyond the game.Get ready to be motivated, entertained, and inspired to catch your own kindness and chase your wildest dreams. Perfect for coaches, players, students, or anyone ready to see sports and education through a new lens — because sometimes the biggest lessons come from the most unexpected places.
Transcribe →From Little League to Banana Ball—Bronson Balholm’s Playbook for Success and Giving Back (Part 1)
Feb 1300:38:21Tap to summarizeMost players have a straight line to professional baseball from high school, to college, to the pros, but Bronson Balholm took a different route — from swinging at baseballs at age three to catching laser-fast pitches, then transforming his love for physics into a mission to inspire the next generation. In this episode, you'll discover how Bronson’s unique blend of athletic talent, scientific curiosity, and entrepreneurial spirit is redefining how we see sports and education.We break down Bronson’s inspiring journey: from early days swinging Wiffle Ball bats with his family, to growing up a Dodgers fan and understanding the catcher’s role as the 'general' on the field. He shares vivid stories of battling in Little League, facing tough opponents in high school with future MLB stars, and balancing a physics degree at Beloit College while still dreaming of pro baseball. You'll explore how the level of competition pushed him to rise, embrace resilience, and develop grit that took him from the D3 fields to the Pac-12 at Arizona State.In addition, this episode uncovers the secret sauce behind Banana Ball’s rapid rise — including viral tryouts, wild crowds in Savannah and across the nation, and lessons learned in moments of chaos like stadium blackouts and celebrity encounters. Bronson reveals how physics and sports are intertwined, teaching kids STEM through baseball, and creating ripples of kindness called "Catch Kindness." Whether you're an athlete, educator, or just someone hungry for inspiration, you'll walk away with tangible ideas to blend passion with purpose.Why does this matter? Because Bronson’s story demonstrates that unconventional paths — powered by passion, perseverance, and a mission to make others better — can lead to extraordinary results. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who's ever doubted mixing science with sport or wondered how to make a real impact beyond the game.Get ready to be motivated, entertained, and inspired to catch your own kindness and chase your wildest dreams. Perfect for coaches, players, students, or anyone ready to see sports and education through a new lens — because sometimes the biggest lessons come from the most unexpected places.
Transcribe →Episode #3 - Chasing Dreams: Preston Freeman's Baseball Journey
Jan 2900:43:06Tap to summarize🎙️ Catch the latest episode of the Dirty Fish podcast as we dive into Preston Freeman's inspiring journey from Texas high school baseball to the University of Nebraska! 🏆 Discover his transition from infielder to outfielder and the role of junior college in shaping his career. Tune in for insights on toughness, growth, and gratitude.
Transcribe →Episode #2 - Inside the Dugout: Coaching Insights with Kyle Stafford"
Jan 1500:34:48Tap to summarizeJoin us in this engaging episode as we sit down with Kyle Stafford, the head coach of the Solano Mudcats. Discover his journey from a player to a coach, his coaching philosophy, and insights into the upcoming season. Whether you're a baseball enthusiast or just curious about the sport, this conversation offers a unique glimpse into the world of coaching and player development. Don't miss out on the stories and strategies that shape the Mudcats' success! #Baseball #Coaching #Mudcats #solanomudcats #mudcatsbaseball #dirtyfish #mudcatstuff #DirtyFishPodcast
Transcribe →Episode #1 - History of the Solano Mudcats
Jan 500:31:00Tap to summarize⚾️ Did you know the Mudcats started back in 1990? 🎉 Join us in the inaugural episode of the Dirty Fish podcast as we explore our roots and the journey of creating a community baseball team. What does baseball mean to you? Let us know below! #SolanoMudcats #BaseballJourney #DirtyFishPodcast #Community #Baseball #LocalLegends #SportsHistory #MudcatsForever #PodcastLife
Transcribe →