Five Tool Podcast
NEW! Episode 94: Previewing Hawaii Sandlot and more with Five Tool SoCal Director Tim Arakawa
Five Tool SoCal Director and Hawaii native Tim Arakawa joins to preview the upcoming Hawaii Sandlot event, which will include over 150 talented prospects from Hawaii. Tim, a former Oklahoma State standout who reached AAA in the Angels organization, also shares his unique baseball journey that began in Hawaii, discusses Five Tool’s coverage in Southern California and more.
Five Tool Baseball Senior Editor Dustin McComas and Scouting Director Drew Bishop cover the latest in amateur baseball in Texas and offer unique insight into the game they love with help from coaches, scouts and more. On average, two episodes are released each week in which Dustin and Drew discuss happenings around the game of baseball at the high school level all the way up to Major League Baseball. The pair also helped develop Five Tool’s first ever high school player rankings. Titled the Five Tool 55, podcast episodes frequently contain information and content related to the rankings. In addition, the Five Tool Podcast has welcomed several popular guests including college coaches and MLB players. The duo also shares a background from their time with Texas Longhorns baseball.
FOLLOW: @FiveTool @DustinLMcComas @drewhbishop
SUBSCRIBE NOW!
Episode 93: The 2024 Texas Five Tool 55 (Part I)
Dustin and Drew share what goes into the Five Tool 55 rankings process and offer an extensive breakdown of players ranked No. 1 – No. 28 on the debut 2024 list for Texas.
Episode 92: Recruiting Advice for Players/Parents; 2024 Five Tool 55 Preview; CA and AZ Fall Standouts
Covid finally made its way into Dustin’s house and got him for the first time in three years, but that didn’t stop The Five Tool Podcast from producing some Friday magic. Drew and Dustin shared numerous tips and advice for players/players about recruiting and helping the recruiting and development process during this time of the year. Plus, the two previewed the debut of the 2024 Five Tool 55 in Texas by sharing 10 players who made the list, highlighted some fall standouts from Arizona and California, discussed MLB free agency and more.
Episode 91: Five Tool All-Summer Team; Recruiting Advice; AZ, CA, NV, NM Fall standouts
Dustin and Drew are finally back after an extended break. The two discuss the recently released Five Tool All-Summer Team and highlight numerous honorable mention players as well. Plus, the duo discusses what recruiting looks like during the fall and how players can help themselves and also put the spotlight on 10 uncommitted California, New Mexico, Arizona or Utah players that stood out during fall events.
Episode 90: Signing classes in Texas; CA, NV, AZ, NM Fall standouts; Drew is now the father of two!!!
Drew recently added his second child to the family and joins Dustin to break down signing classes in the state of Texas. The two go in-depth about both Texas and out-of-state prospects and discuss what it means and also what it means if you’re a 2023 player who hasn’t signed yet. Plus, they highlight 10 players from California, Nevada, New Mexico and Arizona who stood out this fall, including seven uncommitted prospects colleges should keep an eye on.
Episode 89: Players who just missed the 2023 Five Tool 55; recent commits; football; Halloween candy
Drew and Dustin discuss 30+ players who have a very good case to be included on the Five Tool 55 list. Plus, they highlight recent commitments, talk some football, share their Halloween stories as parents and explain why candy corn is terrible.
Episode 88: Updated 2023 Five Tool 55 (No. 34-55); recent college commitments; football
Drew and Dustin continue their discussion of the updated 2023 Five Tool 55 with thoughts on players ranked No. 34-55. Plus, the duo explains the importance of finding the right fit in college, upcoming changes to recruiting the portal, recent commitments and a lot of sad football discussion. And should we question Drew’s sanity after a recent fantasy football trade?
Episode 87: Updated 2023 Five Tool 55 (No. 1-33), 5A/6A 3-game playoff series, recent commits
The 2023 Five Tool 55 received an update and Drew and Dustin break down the players ranked No. 1-33. Plus, the two discuss which colleges have stood out in recruiting, UIL’s vote to make three-game playoff series mandatory for 5A/6A and the very long list of recent college commitments.
Episode 86: LSU Recruiting Coordinator Josh Jordan
Drew and Dustin are joined by one of the rising stars in college baseball, LSU recruiting coordinator Josh Jordan. Jordan discusses his move to LSU, looking for the “sixth tool” in recruiting, player development at LSU, what the Tigers value in recruiting and much, much more. Plus, Drew and Dustin recap Texas-OU, discuss bike rides, look ahead to a great weekend of football and postseason baseball and more.
Episode 85: Coach Brew discusses AZ Fall Classic and Five Tool Senior Academic Team; TX/OU picks
Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop are joined by Five Tool’s Ryan Brewer who coached the senior Five Tool Academic Team at the Arizona Fall Classic. The trio break down the roster, discuss what colleges look for and more. Drew and Dustin wrap things up with MLB postseason discussion and, of course, Texas vs. Oklahoma picks.
Episode 84: Five Tool Academic Teams/AZ Fall Classic Recap
Dustin and Drew are back from Arizona after a successful Arizona Fall Classic with the underclass Five Tool Academic Teams. The two give a full breakdown of both rosters, highlight standout performances, and, of course, talk about Arizona food and a football weekend that was very much a mixed bag.
Episode 83: Five Tool/TSA Event Notes, AZ Fall Classic preview, & Latest Commitments
The Five Tool scouting/podcast team had to fight through some adversity this weekend, but still has plenty of notes, observations and more to share from this past weekend’s Five Tool and Texas Scouts Association event in DFW. Plus, Dustin and Drew preview the upcoming Arizona Fall Classic, discuss the recent college commitments and mix in a little football, too.
Episode 82: Blue Jays and Dodgers Scout Team Notes
Drew and Dustin share their thoughts and observations from watching the Blue Jays and Dodgers scout teams recently with some tidbits on San Jacinto College and Weatherford College, too. Plus, the two look ahead to this weekend’s event with the Texas Scouts Association and, as always, give their fearless football predictions.
Episode 81: UTA Head Coach Clay Van Hook
Dustin and Drew are joined by new UTA head coach Clay Van Hook, who makes his return to the show after last year’s appearance as recruiting coordinator at Oklahoma. The trio discusses UTA’s potential, what it was like for Van Hook taking the job and transitioning, his coaching staff, recruiting, the program’s vision and much more. Plus, Drew and Dustin ride the wave of football emotions after an eventful weekend and cover the latest high school player commitments.
Episode 80: Baylor Hitting Coach and Recruiting Coordinator Zach Dillon
Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop are joined by Zach Dillon, the new Baylor hitting coach and recruiting coordinator. Zach discusses his connection to Baylor, Mitch Thompson and why he couldn’t pass up the opportunity; what Baylor looks for in recruiting; the dedication Baylor has to player development; life at Baylor; and how his unique, extensive baseball background helped prepare him for the challenges of being a recruiting coordinator. Dustin and Drew also highlight recent commitments and select their high school football players of the week.
Episode 79: Rankings updates and what we’ve learned this summer
What’s next for Drew and Dustin during the fall? The two discuss the upcoming 2023 and 2024 class rankings updates, recap what they learned this summer while attending so many events, offer an outline of recruiting timelines for players in 2023/2024/2025 classes and share the latest college commitments.
Episode 78: Area Code Underclass Full Breakdown and Latest Commitments
Drew and Dustin conclude their Area Code discussion with a full breakdown of the underclass event. The duo discussed in detail each member of the Texas Rangers roster and highlighted national standouts from other teams. Plus, it was another busy week in the world of recruiting.
Episode 77: Back from Area Code… a full upperclass breakdown with SD food, recent commitment talk and more
Drew and Dustin are back from very sunny San Diego and are ready to talk about Area Code. Today’s episode features the two discussing the upperclass event and each player on the Texas Rangers list, highlighting top performers and prospects from the other teams, discussing their favorite food from San Diego and recap the latest flurry of big-time college commitments. Plus, why did they miss Juan Soto’s homer at Petco? Drew has to explain.
Episode 76: We’re Headed to Area Code!!!
The gang is heading west. Drew and Dustin preview their upcoming trip to the Area Code Games in San Diego and Drew shares his story of pitching in the Area Code Games as a high school prospect. The two dissect the two Texas teams competing in the event, discuss some of the huge national names participating, explain is significance and cover the latest in recruiting around the state.
Episode 75: Five Tool World Series; Texas Scouts All-Star Game; Latest in Recruiting
Drew and Dustin highlight some of the standout players and performances from both the Five Tool World Series and Texas Scouts Association Prospects All-Star Game. Did some 2023 pitchers show enough to crack the list during the next Five Tool 55 update? Plus, the duo discusses some of the latest commitments, recruiting stories and more.
Episode 74: Academic Showcase Standouts, MLB Draft, Latest in Recruiting
Dustin and Drew covered some standouts from the recent Five Tool Academic Showcase in Austin and explained why they believe so strongly in the event and how it works. Plus, the two discussed at length the MLB Draft, players drafted from Texas and what the draft meant for college baseball. Also, the duo talked about some of the latest commitments around the state and some other recruiting news.
Episode 73: The Final 2022 Five Tool 55
Drew and Dustin discuss the final 2022 Five Tool 55 rankings for the state of Texas and go into detail about each player. Plus, who were the toughest players to leave off the list? All that and more.
Episode 72: Mattingly WS standouts, top moments, and more
The AABC Don Mattingly World Series delivered some of the best moments and performances of the summer. It also delivered the summer’s best game, too. Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop recap that, standout moments, top performances and much more.
Episode 71: Bregman World Series Standouts, CWS, Upcoming Rankings Updates
Dustin McComas is a new #girldad at home with a newborn and toddler, which means Drew Bishop had to carry the podcast this week. He delivered with a ton of observations from the recent Alex Bregman World Series. Plus, the two discussed the College World Series, the Five Tool 55 rankings updates that will soon be released and more
Episode 70: Pudge World Classic and THSBCA All-Star Game
They’ve done it. Drew and Dustin set a record for the number of players mentioned – and still weren’t able to get to everyone without talking for four hours – in this most recent episode, which featured a ton of player discussion after a very successful, competitive, loaded Pudge Rodriguez World Classic (presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors). Plus, Dustin shared some thoughts from the THSBCA All-Star Game.
Episode 69: Connie Mack Qualifier, Blake Mitchell, State Champs and a CRAZY College Postseason
Dustin and Drew made up for missing last week’s recording with an overload of baseball talk, including: Connie Mack AABC World Series qualifier; Sinton vs. Celina in-person look; Five Tool Houston Regional and SHSU events; Five Tool DISD and Academic Showcases; state champs in Texas have been crowned; and a crazy college baseball postseason.
Episode 68: Playoffs, Five Tool Kickoff, NCAA Bracket and More
Eat, sleep and breathe baseball. That’s the Five Tool motto all the time but especially right now. Dustin and Drew recap the high school playoff games (Forney, Frisco Lone Star, The Woodlands, Rockwall, Calallen, Boerne) they saw and also list some standouts from this past weekend’s Five Toll Kickoff event in the DFW area. The guys also give their thoughts about the NCAA Tournament bracket and predict chaos throughout.
Episode 67: Playoff Drama and College Baseball Projections
Drew and Dustin shared their observations from the playoff games they attended Friday/Saturday, which included Brenham, College Station, Lovejoy, Lone Star, Prosper and Coppell. Plus, the two look ahead to some of the upcoming playoff matchups and examine college baseball’s NCAA Tournament projections.
Episode 66: Thursday’s playoff games and Saban vs. Jimbo
Drew and Dustin recap the games they saw Thursday (Rockwall vs. Waxahachie and Clark vs. Lake Travis) and look at results across the state. Plus, the two discuss what type of intentional walk is the greater sign of respect and you know they had to discuss the ongoing feud between college football coaches Nick Saban and Jimbo Fisher.
Episode 65: Playoffs, playoffs and more playoffs
The playoffs are in full swing and Dustin and Drew recapped the six games they saw this past week, featuring Smithson Valley, Westlake, Lake Travis, San Antonio Johnson, Georgetown, Floresville, JJ Pearce, Flower Mound Marcus, Rockwall-Heath, Mansfield Lake Ridge, Rockwall and Corsicana. Plus, the two discuss the strategy of going for the one-game playoff or a three- game series.
Episode 64: Thoughts from six playoff games (DFW, Houston, Central Texas) and more…
Dustin and Drew recap their playoff games from the last week, which includes thoughts on Tomball, Bridgeland, Cy Ranch, Klein Cain, Lake Travis, Vandegrift, Rockwall, Coppell, Rowlett, McKinney Boyd and Cleburne. Big-time players show up in big-time moments, and some of the state’s best players are doing exactly that.
Episode 63: TCS Post Grad Director Logan Harrington
At Five Tool, we’re passionate about trying to help players find opportunities to stay in the game. TCS Post Grad director Logan Harrington shares that passion and joined Drew and Dustin to explain their program, which is a great avenue for young players to develop on and off the field, keep playing and try to find that next opportunity.
Episode 62: Jace LaViolette goes off; Lovejoy poised for playoff run; playoffs preview, NFL Draft, more
Dustin has been waiting for a 2022 hitter to have a monster game while he’s in attendance. Jace LaViolette did that. He and Drew recap the games they saw on Friday, preview the upcoming high school playoffs and discuss college baseball, the NFL Draft and more.
Episode 61: Coppell, Flower Mound, Vista Ridge, Jalin Flores and the NFL Draft
The high school baseball regular season is winding down and Dustin and Drew recap the games they saw earlier this week, including Coppell, Flower Mound, Vista Ridge, Round Rock Stony Point, Brandeis and MacArthur. 2023 prospects TJ Pompey and Hank Howard stood out on the mound for Coppell and Jalin Flores looked like a senior who could hear his name called early in the MLB Draft. Speaking of drafts, the two discussed tonight’s NFL Draft, too.
Episode 60: Blanco, Prosper, Allen, Mansfield Legacy, Arlington Martin and some top performances of the season
After a long day of flight delays, Dustin is back from San Diego. He and Drew discussed the games they saw late last week, including Blanco, Mansfield Legacy, Arlington Martin, Allen and Prosper. Plus, the two discuss some of the top performances they’ve seen this season, look back at their college drafts and look ahead to MLB and NFL drafts.
Episode 59: Players moving up the Five Tool. 55 lists; Westlake/Lake Travis; Frisco Reedy/Frisco Liberty
Dustin and Drew recap their trips to see Frisco Liberty vs. Frisco Reedy and Westlake vs. Lake Travis. Also, the duo discusses four players from the 2022 and 2023 classes who need to move up in the Five Tool 55 rankings and four players from the 2024 class who need to be on the first edition of the 2024 Five Tool 55.
Episode 58: Uncommitted Sr. RHP; Reid’s big night; the master of timing in Frisco and more
Finding really talented uncommitted senior pitchers this time of the year is nearly impossible, but Dustin put eyes on one from Alamo Heights last week. He and Drew Bishop discuss that, Dripping Springs, Brandon Arvidson, Dominick Reid, Frisco Lone Star, Frisco Heritage and more. Plus, Drew has a new favorite pitcher, who is a master of timing and unique looks.
Episode 57: 10 state title contenders we’ve seen; Katy/Cinco Ranch; Clayton Kershaw/Vladdy Jr.
Good enough to win it all? Drew and Dustin pick five teams they’ve seen that they think could win a state title. Plus, Dustin recaps his trip to see Cinco Ranch vs. Katy and the two discuss Clayton Kershaw’s perfect game bid ending after the seventh inning, Vladimir Guerrero, Jr. and more.
Episode 56: DFW standouts; Casan Evans/Sean Fitzpatrick; friends of the podcast enjoying success
We’ve now confirmed that guests of the podcast go on to enjoy success. Bryce Elder is scheduled to make his debut with the Braves tonight, joining the list of former guests enjoying success this season. Drew and Dustin also discuss what they saw late last week, including Rockwall-Heath, Rockwall, Southlake Carroll, Concordia Lutheran, Prosper, St. Pius X and much more.
Episode 55: Jack Livingstone’s No-No; Brayden Sharp; MLB Opening Day
Drew recaps his trip to see Jack Livingstone throw a no-hitter vs. Rock Hill for Lovejoy, and Dustin shares thoughts from his trip to see Brayden Sharp and The Woodlands versus Conner Bennett and Oak Ridge. Plus, the two discuss the 2023 class as a whole, potential risers in the 2022 class, MLB Opening Day and more.
Episode 54: S2 Cognition Testing @ Twelve Baseball; Tavion Vaughns and Tristan Bristow; more
Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop recap their weekend at Franklin Ranch with Twelve Baseball and S2 Cognition. They again discuss the importance of S2 Cognition’s testing results and also recap trips to see Cedar Hill and OU signee Tavion Vaughns and 2024 Vanderbilt commitment Tristan Bristow (Harlan). Plus, the duo talks Wyatt Wiatrek’s commitment to McLennan, Summer Creek’s Erick Arcay, MLB Opening Day and more.
Episode 53: HS games; Cole Phillips and TJ; college coaches following parents; MLB/NCAA baseball
Drew Bishop discusses getting a look at recent 2023 Texas A&M commitment and Farmersville RHP Cooper Strawn and Dustin recaps his trip to see Summer Creek versus Atascocita, which featured a strong pitching performance and Jayden Duplantier’s plus-plus speed. The duo also discusses the news of Boerne RHP and Arkansas signee Cole Phillips needing Tommy John surgery, college coaches following what parents do on social media, positional flexibility appearing more at the MLB level and more.
Episode 52: Drew recaps big-time DFW matchups; Dustin discusses Las Vegas
Drew recaps a couple of big-time matchups he watched in the DFW area and Dustin shares some thoughts from his Las Vegas trip to participate in the NFBC Main Event. Plus, the duo discusses why district play in high school and conference play in D1 baseball increases the importance of being able to play catch, get outs on time and throw quality strikes.
Episode 51: Landon Bowden, Tristan Russell, more HS notes; Social Media 101; Dustin’s Vegas trip
Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas share their thoughts after watching Hallsville vs. Texas High and Cy Woods vs. Bridgeland. Plus, the two explain the importance for players properly setting up and using their Twitter account and remind players/parents college coaches are barely able to see in-person games this time of the year. Dustin also previews his upcoming Las Vegas trip to participate in the National Fantasy Baseball Championship’s Main Event.
Episode 50: Drew’s Chase Shores trip; Rockwall/Heath; top ’24 arm?; more
Drew made the long trek to go see top 2022 pitcher Chase Shores and came back with a full report. Plus, he saw Rockwall vs. Rockwall-Heath and more. Dustin wonders if he saw the best 2024 pitcher in Texas this past week and recaps Tomball vs. Tomball Memorial and thanks Jace LaViolette for reassuring him that he’s not a curse. Plus, MLB/NFL free agency, March Madness and more. Oh, food reviews, too!
Episode 49: We’re back! And we saw Sinton, Rockwall, Heath and a ton more
After a brief hiatus, Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas are back and are ready to talk about baseball after another week of action and another weekend of tournaments. They saw Lake Travis, Round Rock, Sinton, Smithson Valley, Rockwall, Rockwall-Heath, Keller and many more. How good was Blake Mitchell? Tune in.
Episode 48: Bixby’s one hitter; McKinney Boyd arms stand out; Drew goes to Disney World
San Antonio Johnson 2023 right-hander Mason Bixby tossed a one-hitter last night and Dustin was there to see the TCU commit’s performance. Dustin and Drew discuss that, McKinney Body’s talented senior arms showing their stuff, the upcoming schedule of games and more. Plus, Drew is off to Disney World soon and Dustin did some #FiveToolFoodies scouting.
Episode 47: ’22 RHP continues to impress; tournament standouts; college observations
A 2022 right-handed pitcher continues to throw extremely well to begin the season and Drew and Dustin survived the cold to deliver some early-season tournament observations from the past week. The two discuss programs like Prosper, Rock Hill, Lovejoy, San Antonio Johnson, Keller, Brandeis, Copperas Cove, Vista Ridge and more. Plus, they take a look at notable college baseball performances.
Episode 46: Scrimmage notes, throwing strikes and college baseball’s opening weekend
Drew and Dustin share scrimmage thoughts on Prosper, Hebron, Lake Travis, Georgetown, Tompkins, Grand Oaks and more. Plus, the two discuss the importance of throwing quality strikes on the mound, what separates good teams at the HS and college level and also give their thoughts on college baseball’s opening weekend.
Episode 45: Another pitcher throws 99 MPH, scrimmage notes, hot or cold sandwiches
The Five Tool Podcast duo was again on the road to see scrimmages around Texas. Dustin put eyes on another pitcher who threw 99 MPH and some of the state’s best 2022/2023 players and Drew saw some East Texas talent that might be under the radar. The two saw Smithson Valley, Brandeis, Boerne, Nacogdoches, Whitehouse, Henderson and more. Plus, the two ask an important question: hot or cold sandwiches?
Episode 44: Scrimmage standouts, a junior throwing 99 MPH and more
Drew and Dustin share some thoughts about Plano, Rockwall-Heath, Round Rock, Austin Westlake, Clark, Waxahachie, Arlington Martin and more after seeing a lot of scrimmages this past week. Plus, the two discuss the Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day and the upcoming week of scrimmages.
Episode 43: DFW and H-Town Scrimmage thoughts… Plus, Hot Dog or Nachos?
The Texas high school baseball season is officially here? Well, kind of. Scrimmages are happening. Drew and Dustin share some thoughts after seeing Prosper, Coppell, Cypress Ranch, Cy-Fair, Tomball Memorial and College Station. Plus, they ask an important question about ballpark concession food.
Episode 42: College Draft Review; Early DFW Standouts; Food on the Road
Drew and Dustin recap the College Player Draft, highlight some of the early HS scrimmage standouts in the DFW area and preview their upcoming HS game schedules. Plus, they ask an important question: where should they eat when they’re on the road?
Episode 41: College Baseball Player Draft with D1Baseball.com’s Kendall Rogers
Kendall Rogers, D1Baseball.com’s Managing Editor, do-it-all columnist and Hater of All Teams, joins Dustin and Drew to participate in the Five Tool College Baseball Player Draft. The guys draft players from Texas and the bordering states.
Episode 40: Recapping HS Player Draft, Hall of Fame discussion
Drew and Dustin recap the Five Tool Texas High School Player Draft, pick their 4×100 relay and home run derby teams and more. Plus, the two discuss the recent news about the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Episode 39: The First-ever Five Tool HS Player Draft
With the first pick, Drew Bishop selects… you’ll have to tune in and see. It’s #TeamDustin vs. #TeamBish in the first-ever Five Tool Texas HS Player Draft. Who do you think has the better team? Vote on Twitter @FiveTool.
Episode 38: Updated 2022 Five Tool 55 and Previewing our High School Player Draft
The updated 2022 Five Tool 55 was released and the guys discuss the movement on the list. Plus, they get way too excited when previewing the upcoming Five Tool High School Player Draft, which will be LIVE during Tuesday’s episode.
Episode 37: The 2023 Five Tool 55 Follow List (Part II)
Drew and Dustin conclude their 2023 Five Tool 55 discussion with the second half of the follow list. They also discuss recent S2 Cognition testing, the THSBCA convention, preview upcoming HS coverage along with the updated 2022 Five Tool 55 and try to deal with their NFL teams exiting the playoffs in embarrassing fashion.
Episode 36: Five Tool Baseball and S2 Cognition Partnership
Why are Five Tool Baseball and S2 Cognition working together? Five Tool founder and owner Lynn Vanlandingham explains being introduced to S2 Cognition, what hooked him and way he’s so passionate about it. Also, Dr. Scott Wylie of S2 Cognition returns and speaks about working with Five Tool, testing more players to better develop the game and what’s next on the horizon.
Episode 35: S2 Cognition Director of Baseball Development Paul Phillips
Paul Phillips spent 15 years in professional baseball as a player, played in the bigs with multiple teams. Then, he became a D1 college coach, AAA hitting coach and catching coordinator. Now, he’s with S2 Cognition. Why’d he leave pro ball for S2? He explains that, taking the assessment data and applying it to development, the developmental gains he’s seen using S2 and much more.
Episode 34: Why S2 Cognition is a Game-changer, Featuring Dr. Scott Wylie
Forever, baseball people have asked an important question: why? Why does that player chase sliders? Why does he have great instincts? Finally, we have a product that can test the brain and, for the first time, truly answer that question. Dr. Scott Wylie, Co-founder of S2 Cognition, joined Dustin and Drew to explain this game-changing product. It could change development as we know it.
Episode 33: Dodgers infielder and two-time MLB All-Star Max Muncy joins the show…
Another big-time big leaguer joined the show. Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas are joined by Dodgers slugger, 2020 World Series champ and two-time All-Star Max Muncy. Muncy is the sponsor of Five Tool’s biggest 14U event. He discussed being involved at the amateur level, the importance of having fun with the game, what led to his transformation offensively, being a new dad and much more.
Episode 32: Part I of the 2023 Five Tool 55 Follow List; Five Tool Academic Showcase; more
The 2023 Five Tool 55 Follow List includes 188 players. Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas highlight names from the first half of the list and discuss the upcoming Five Tool Academic Showcase, which again reiterates how much elite work in the classroom can help recruiting.
Episode 31: The 2023 Five Tool 55 ”Just Missed” List
Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas dive into the 2023 Five Tool 55 “Just Missed” list and give player breakdowns for many of the talented players who just missed the Five Tool 55 cut. They discuss why many of these players have very bright futures, the link to being a multi-sport athlete, and give their picks for who is most likely to end up on the Five Tool 55 when it’s next updated.
Episode 30: Houston Astros All-Star 3B Alex Bregman Joins the Show
The man behind the Alex Bregman World Series and Bregman Cares Classic joined the show today. Houston Astros All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman joined Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop to discuss his passion for his charity and helping the community, the latest on his rehab after offseason surgery, the importance of being even-keeled in baseball, his recruiting process and amateur career, his salsa and much, much more.
Episode 29: The 2023 Five Tool 55‘s top 22 players
The list is published. Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop continue their 2023 Five Tool 55 discussion with today’s featured podcast about the top 22 players on the list. No. 1 on the list isn’t a surprise, but was it an easy call to make?
Episode 28: 2023 Five Tool 55 Countdown Continues… (Nos. 44-23)
The release of the 2023 Five Tool 55 for Texas continues. Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas deliver scouting reports about 22 of the best juniors in Texas.
Episode 27: The 2023 Five Tool 55 is Here!!!! (discussing Nos. 55-45 today)
It’s rankings day! The 2023 Five Tool 55 for the state of Texas is ready to debut. Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop discuss the process behind the list, general thoughts and challenges that came with the process. They also give thoughts on the first 11 players on the list, from No. 55 to No. 45.
Episode 26: OU assistant coach Clay Van Hook discusses recruiting, NIL, more
Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas are joined by Oklahoma assistant coach Clay Van Hook. Van Hook discusses what the Sooners look for in recruiting and team building. And he also explains the possible impact of NIL. Plus, Drew puts the member of the UT 2005 national championship team on the spot and the two hosts end the podcast with an appreciation of bullpen catchers.
Episode 25: A day in the life a college baseball player
Ever wondered what a daily and yearly schedule is like for a college baseball player at the highest level? Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas explain the fall offseason, holidays, preseason, season and more in this week’s episode. Plus, the two also briefly preview the upcoming 2023 Five Tool 55.
Episode 24: Texas A&M Recruiting Coordinator Nolan Cain Discusses Recruiting, ‘22 Class, A&M‘s Fall and More
Texas A&M Recruiting Coordinator Nolan Cain joined Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas to discuss recruiting, his transition to Texas A&M, building a team, what he looks for, A&M’s ’22 class and fall offseason and much more.
Episode 23: What CFB‘s coaching moves reminds us about baseball recruiting, upcoming 2023 Five Tool 55, more
Big-time college football head coaches are on the move. Again. Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop explain why those moves reinforce some key recruiting checkpoints for players and families. Plus, they discuss what Marcus Semien’s contract should tell young players and preview the upcoming 2023 Five Tool 55.
Episode 22: Dr. Katie McInnis explains importance of diet/nutrition on development and more
Former University of Texas Assistant Sports Dietician and current UT lecturer Dr. Katie McInnis joins Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas to share her expertise and experiences working with a college baseball program. In addition to the importance of diet and nutrition, she explains some common misconceptions, advice for players and, of course, some stories about Drew.
Episode 21: Signing Class Discussion (ACU, DBU, Houston, Rice, UTSA, Texas State, Sam Houston State, more)
The breakdowns of regional signing classes continued with non-power five Texas schools. Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop discuss programs like ACU, DBU, Rice, UTSA, Texas State, Sam Houston State and more. A lot of great baseball is played in Texas and these classes reinforce that.
Episode 20: Discussing Regional Signing Classes (Baylor, TCU, Texas, A&M, Texas Tech)
Last week marked the beginning of the early signing period for baseball. Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop take a look at and discuss signing classes for Baylor, TCU, Texas, Texas A&M and Texas Tech.
Episode 19: D1Baseball.com‘s Kendall Rogers discusses what he‘s seen this fall, college baseball in the region, more
D1Baseball.com’s Kendall Rogers has seen a lot of college programs in Texas and the region. He discusses the likes of Texas, Texas A&M, TCU, Rice, Houston, DBU, Baylor and more during this episode and also previews what’s ahead for the many new coaching faces leading some of those programs. Plus, we discuss college programs using more resources on development, queso, NIL deals and more.
Episode 18: National Champion and McLennan Head Coach Mitch Thompson Shares his Baseball Wisdom
The championship theme continued thanks to McLennan head coach and 2021 JUCO national champion Mitch Thompson. The longtime, very successful coach shared thoughts on building a program, what he looks for in recruiting, some differences between D1 and JUCO, why he wants McLennan to be a springboard for his players and much more.
Episode 17: Mississippi State assistant coach Kyle Cheesebrough discusses national title, recruiting, development and more
The week of championship coaching guests kicks off with Mississippi State assistant coach Kyle Cheesebrough, who has a long and successful track record working with catchers and also works with hitters in Starkville. Cheesebrough discusses what went into winning the national title, finding “winners” who fit their program, importance of the offseason weight program, figuring out a recruit’s makeup, why managing 11.7 scholarships is so tough and more.
Episode 16: Player-led development; finding the right fit; standout 2022/2023s; Texas vs. McLennan and more
Still recovering from Halloween candy consumption, but definitely not candy corn, Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas cover an array of topics, including: player-led development; how the fall impacts college rosters and recruiting; recapping our recent interviews with Sean Allen (Texas), Josh Blakely (Texas State) and Bryce Elder (Braves); some standout 2022s and 2023s we saw recently; Texas vs. McLennan scrimmage; Halloween candy, World Series & more.
Episode 15: Atlanta Braves Minor League Pitcher of the Year, former Texas ace Bryce Elder joins the show
Bryce Elder is a great example for young players. The former Texas Longhorns ace right-hander and this past season’s Atlanta Braves Minor League Pitcher of the Year joined Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas to discuss his very unique path to UT, which included signing after his senior season and a multi-sport background that he credits for really helping his baseball career. What’s it like to bet on yourself in high school and experience the ups-and-downs of major D1 and professional baseball? Elder explains.
Episode 14: Texas State Recruiting Coordinator Josh Blakley goes in-depth on recruiting, building a team and more
Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas are joined by Texas State assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Josh Blakley. The Bobcats coach shares what he looks for in recruiting, who he calls to get background on players, explaining scholarship offers to families, their approach to development and building a team, the latest with the Texas State program and more.
Episode 13: Importance of makeup in recruiting; standout players from the weekend; MLB playoffs
Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop recapped their recent interview with Texas pitching coach and recruiting coordinator Sean Allen. They highlighted the importance of makeup in recruiting and winning at the collegiate level, players standing out by playing hard, and the MLB playoffs. Plus, the two highlighted some standout players they saw from Five Tool events in Dallas and Tomball this past weekend.
Episode 12: Texas pitching coach/recruiting coordinator Sean Allen discusses recruiting, Longhorns, what he looks for and more
Drew Bishop and Dustin McComas welcomed their first guest to the show. University of Texas pitching coach and recruiting coordinator Sean Allen joined and discussed the recruiting process, what he looks for in players when evaluating, questions he likes to hear from players and parents, the correlation between makeup and winning at the college level and what’s going on with the Longhorns this fall.
Episode 11: Unofficial/official visits; scholarship offer is more than just an offer; critical questions to ask during visits
Fortunate enough to take unofficial or official visits for college baseball? Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop discuss important questions you should ask/consider during your visits, explain the difference between unofficial and official visits and explain why a scholarship offer is so much more than just an offer to play baseball. This is a must-listen episode for players/parents going through the recruiting process.
Episode 10: Explaining D1 baseball recruiting calendar, 11.7 scholarships/roster limits and more
Ever wondered what the D1 baseball recruiting calendar looks like and how it impacts when a player can be seen and contacted? There is no one better than Drew Bishop to explain and he joins Dustin McComas to explore the calendar, 11.7 scholarships and roster limits, and questions parents and players should be considering or asking during the recruiting process.
Episode 9: #FiveTool55 Follow List Breakdown; MLB postseason showing little things matter; TX/OU predictions
Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop wrap up their #FiveTool55 coverage by highlighting players from the “follow list.” They also discuss the MLB postseason reinforcing the value of the little things like baserunning and defense and give their predictions for this weekend’s Texas-OU football game.
Episode 8: #FiveTool55 Just Missed List; Five Tool Academic at AZFC; recruiting advice for uncommitted 2022s
The duo of Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop is back to highlight the Senior Five Tool Academic Team at the Arizona Fall Classic, recruiting advice for uncommitted 2022s, and a detailed breakdown of the members of the #FiveTool55 “just missed” list.
Episode 7: #FiveTool55 countdown (the TOP 10!); Five Tool Academic team at AZFC; Dustin‘s bad sports weekend
The duo of Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop discuss Drew’s victorious managerial debut as Five Tool Academic’s coach at the Arizona Fall Classic; the college coach presence at the AZFC watching the Academic team; the final 10 players in the #FiveTool55 player countdown; and a bad sports weekend for Dustin.
Episode 6: #FiveTool55 Countdown (No. 22-11 players); Dodgers Scout Team Notes; flying and airports
The #FiveTool55 player countdown continues with Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop. Also, the two discuss notes from the Dodgers Scout Team game at Texas A&M vs. Galveston College and how critical developmental situations are for players. Plus, some brief opinions from the duo on flying and airports.
Episode 5: #FiveTool55 Player Countdown (33-23); Importance of Academics in Recruiting
Senior Editor Dustin McComas and Scouting Director Drew Bishop continue their #FiveTool55 player countdown and breakdowns with Nos. 33-23 on the list. Plus, the duo describes the importance of strong academics in recruiting, on campus in college programs and the Five Tool Academic Team.
Episode 4: #FiveTool55 Countdown (44-34); two-way players; grocery shopping and pumpkin muffins
The #FiveTool55 countdown continued with players ranked 44-34 on the list, which included some high-upside arms, an intriguing two-way player and some of the state’s best catchers. Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop also discussed the demands and value of two-way players in college, H-E-B developments near Rockwall, grocery shopping and pumpkin muffins. Yes, pumpkin muffins.
Episode 3: #FiveTool55 player breakdowns (55-45); strength programs; NIL deals and more
Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop begin their countdown of the #FiveTool55 with thoughts on players ranked No. 55-45. They also discuss multi-sport athletes, college strength programs, their own NIL deals, being Uber drivers, college football and more.
Episode 2: Blue Jays scout team, #FiveTool55 breakdown, more
Dustin McComas and Drew Bishop were both at Dallas Baptist Wednesday night to watch the Blue Jays Scout Team defeat Panola in a fall exhibition. They discuss who and what stood out from that game; explore where members from the #FiveTool55 are from and where they’re going to play; give thoughts on the baseball recruiting process & even talk some Longhorn football.
Episode 1: The first-ever Five Tool Baseball Podcast
Five Tool Baseball is happy to present the first-ever Five Tool Baseball Podcast with co-hosts Dustin McComas (Senior Editor) and Drew Bishop (Scouting Director). New to Five Tool, the duo shares their burnt orange background in baseball, why they moved to Five Tool and what they’ll be doing, and explains in detail the process behind the inaugural Five Tool 55 rankings.
