Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford – Details, episodes & analysis

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Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford

Matt Hannaford

Sports

Business

Frequency: 1 episode/6d. Total Eps: 111

Welcome to Most Valuable Agent – the podcast that gives baseball players, prospects, and fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in professional baseball. Hosted by Matt Hannaford, a Major League Baseball agent with years of experience in contract negotiations and player representation, this channel is a must-watch for: • Athletes looking to advance their careers • Parents supporting young players • Baseball fans who want a deeper understanding of the game beyond the field What You’ll Learn: • MLB Contracts & Draft Insights – How players get signed, negotiate contracts, and maximize opportunities • The Business of Baseball – Arbitration, free agency, and how teams evaluate talent • Expert Interviews & Analysis – Conversations with players, scouts, and insiders • MLB News & Market Trends – Breaking down trades, signings, and player negotiations 👉 Subscribe now for exclusive insights from one of baseball’s top agents! New episodes weekly. You can watch the full episodes on The Most Valuable Agent Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent

Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇩🇪 Germany - baseball
08/07/2026
#99
🇩🇪 Germany - baseball
07/07/2026
#77
🇩🇪 Germany - baseball
06/07/2026
#50
🇩🇪 Germany - baseball
03/07/2026
#96
🇩🇪 Germany - baseball
02/07/2026
#83
🇩🇪 Germany - baseball
01/07/2026
#52
🇨🇦 Canada - baseball
09/06/2026
#95
🇨🇦 Canada - baseball
08/06/2026
#71
🇨🇦 Canada - baseball
07/06/2026
#53
🇨🇦 Canada - baseball
31/05/2026
#83

Spotify

No recent rankings available

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://www.instagram.com/mfhannaford
75 shares
https://www.instagram.com/aligndsports
10 shares
https://www.instagram.com/johanspeaks
5 shares

http://aligndsports.com
34 shares
https://intro.co/matthannaford
34 shares
https://www.aligndsports.com/
28 shares

https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent/
44 shares
https://www.youtube.com/@mostvaluableagent
5 shares
https://www.youtube.com/@MostValuableAgent
4 shares

RSS feed quality and score

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RSS feed quality

Good

Score global : 73%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

Year

Latest published episodes

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College Recruiting 101 with Joe Oliveira

Episode 10

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 • Duration 01:02:56

Ready to take the next step in your player's college baseball journey? In this episode, Joe Oliveira, founder of Oliveira Baseball Consulting, shares his experience as a college 3-time All-Conference player himself to his approach helping families navigate the college recruiting process. We cover tips to manage expectations in the draft process, the pros and cons of the college baseball transfer portal, and the current state of NIL in college baseball. Get ready to know the best practices for showcasing talent and finding the right college for your athlete!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The man behind the Oliveira Baseball Consulting.

05:45 How it's like coaching at San Diego State under Tony Gwynn.

12:15 How do you evaluate individual players and families?

18:45 The process of working with college baseball programs.

23:15 How do you manage player expectations during the draft process?

28:00 The pros and cons of the transfer portal.

35:15 The most frequent question about NIL.

38:45 Advice for players and families on attending showcases and camps.

44:45 The common mistake families make with the college recruiting process.

48:15 What advice would you give to these parents on taking video?

52:15 What advice do you give to players before going to the showcase?

55:00 Suggested questions for players/families to ask colleges during first contact.

37:45 Best way to respectfully handle calls with schools when a player chooses not to attend.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Oliviera Baseball Co. HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

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The Key to a Major League Mindset with MLB Mental Strength Coach Brandon Guyer

Episode 8

Tuesday, August 20, 2024 • Duration 01:01:02

Are you training your mind with the same intensity as your body? Today’s guest, former MLB player turned Mental Strength Coach and founder of Major League Mindset - Brandon Guyer, shares how your mental game accounts for 90-95% of your performance! Brandon is here to share expert tips to uplevel your mental game from mastering self-talk, to controlling the controllables, and cultivating a 'win or learn' mindset in high-pressure situations. Strengthening your mental game will not only help you overcome anxiety and fear, but perform at your BEST.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet former major league player turned mental strength coach, Brandon Guyer..

02:15 How important it is to have mindset training as early as possible?

07:00 How was the transition retiring from baseball to focusing on mental coaching?

13:15 Why is it important to separate your on-field and off-field identities?

16:00 What is the "Major League Mindset"?

20:30 Tools and techniques to perform in a high-pressure situation.

30:00 Four main barriers players need to unlock to reach their potential.

36:30 The mindset that will guarantee you always win.

46:00 The nuances of implementing specific mental training exercises.

52:00 What is Neuro Linguistic Programming?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Major League Mindset HERE

CLICK HERE to listen MAJOR LEAGUE MINDSET PODCAST on Spotify

Exploring The Rise of Arm Injuries, Protecting Young Athletes, and Arm Care 101 with Dr. Keith Meister

Episode 7

Tuesday, August 13, 2024 • Duration 43:48

Did you know there’s an alarming increased rate of arm injuries in baseball? In this episode I’m joined by Orthopedic Surgeon and head physician for the Texas Rangers, Dr. Keith Meister as we dive into the challenges pitchers face today, the spike in Tommy John surgery, and what we can do to protect young athletes. and the suggested solutions that can be taken to ensure their health.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet the doctor who's done over 2000 elbow ligament reconstructions.

03:00 Factors that contribute to most injuries in baseball.

10:15 The wear and tear pitching is causing and if pitchers can avoid it.

14:00 Bans in the MLB that are increasing injury rates.

16:30 What’s the cause of the increase in UCL (Ulnar Collateral Ligament) reconstructions?

20:30 Potential solutions to avoid potential injuries in baseball.

25:00 How long is the recovery process after Tommy John surgery?

35:00 Signs you may need Tommy John surgery.

36:15 Top resources families should read to educate yourself on potential injuries.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

FOLLOW

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Pro MLB Player Turned Financial Advisor: What Every Athlete Needs to Protect Their Wealth with Jacob Turner

Episode 6

Tuesday, August 6, 2024 • Duration 53:20

How early should I be thinking about getting a financial advisor? Today’s guest has a unique perspective as both a player AND financial advisor and we’re giving you the knowledge you need to navigate finances in the world of pro baseball. My friend, Jacob Turner, a pro player with the Detroit Tigers, Miami Marlins, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Washington Nationals turned financial advisor knows what you need to protect and secure your wealth for the future. We dive into the top 3 questions you should ask a potential advisor, and what families need to know about the draft process and signing bonuses.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Meet MLB player turned Financial Advisor, Jacob Turner.

03:15 How to know the best financial decisions for your athlete vs taking generic advice.

08:45 One thing you should consider when choosing an investment strategy.

13:15 The reason why Jacob transitioned from baseball.

23:45 Questions to ask when hiring an agent and financial advisor.

29:30 The difference between broker-dealers vs registered investment advisors.

33:00 Top 3 questions to ask your financial advisor.

37:15 What families should know about the draft process and the true value of a signing bonus.

45:45 The common struggle older players face in a youth-driven league.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more about Moment Private Wealth HERE

10 Questions To Ask A Financial Advisor HERE

Keys to Unlocking Your Mental Game with Pro NHL, NBA, and MLB Mental Skills Coach, Johan Martinez-Khalilian

Episode 5

Tuesday, July 30, 2024 • Duration 01:22:16

Athletes are constantly striving to push their limits and achieve peak performance. However, the road to success is often filled with challenges, and setbacks that can test even the most seasoned athlete. In this episode, Johan Martinez-Khalilian, shares the mental skills he teaches professional athletes in the NHL, NBA, and MLB for peak MENTAL performance. We dive into what a mental skills coach does to help players with their mindset, emotions, physical abilities, and even spiritual aspects so they can perform at their best. Listen in for ways to work out and improve your mental game to be able to support your athlete (and yourself!)

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 What's your role to a player's life as a mental skills coach?

10:15 The common pitfall athletes should avoid.

19:00 The “way of being” that will help players navigate obstacles.

22:00 How can parents help young athletes develop the ability to think for themselves?

28:30 A common way top level athletes think (and what surprised me about their confidence.)

30:45 What does integrity mean to you?

32:00 How to identify the gap between a player's current level vs desired goal.

40:00 How do you approach working with a younger player?

44:15 The three laws of human performance.

01:06:00 How can parents best support the development of young athletes?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Work with Johan HERE

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Hitting 101 with Major League Hitting Coach and Travel Baseball Parent, Alec Zumwalt

Episode 4

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 • Duration 01:07:00

Ever wonder what it takes to climb the ranks in professional baseball? In this episode, I am joined by my good friend, Alec Zumwalt, hitting coach for the Kansas City Royals. With a career that spans from player to scout to coach, Alec shares his experiences and personal stories from the field. We dive into the intricacies of professional baseball, the importance of development over exposure, and actionable advice for players at all stages of their careers. Get ready to know how big league hitters maintain their success!

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 How Alec went from being a player, to pro scout, and finally hitting coach.

04:00 How do you balance your time as a coach and being a great Dad?

10:45 The role and responsibilities of a hitting coach in the major leagues.

18:00 The challenges of balancing family life with a demanding baseball career.

23:45 What advice would you give to young hitters?

33:15 The biggest adjustments when transitioning from amateur to professional baseball.

37:30 What's a good overload and under-load batting routine?

39:45 Top drills for lower half separation.

46:00 Alec's biggest takeaway from Josh Donaldson's technique.

49:00 The key element that helps hitters at the big league level.

53:30 Alec's biggest advice for young baseball players and their parents.

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation

A Parent’s Guide to What Scouts Look for In Travel Baseball Players with MLB Scout, Alex McClure

Episode 3

Thursday, July 18, 2024 • Duration 01:27:55

Want to know how to attract the attention of scouts and maximize opportunities to play at the next level? In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Alex McClure, a West Coast cross checker for the Detroit Tigers. Alex provided incredible insight into the world of baseball scouting, sharing what scouts look for in both pitchers and position players. You'll learn the different levels of scouts within an MLB organization, how they work together to identify top talent, and the importance of developing personal relationships with players and their families. Alex emphasizes that scouts are looking for in players, on and off the field.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 What did the transition look like going from pro player to MLB scout?

05:45 Why did you decide to transfer during your college career?

10:00 The role organizations, scouts, and agents play in a player's growth on and off the field.

15:15 Different types of scouts and what the job entails.

23:45 What should parents prioritize to make sure their player is seen?

30:00 Is it valuable when kids play multiple sports? (And do you watch them compete in other sports?)

41:15 What is your scouting process?

47:45 How many times do you feel like you need to see an athlete?

54:30 Things teams look at on and off the field from social media to their home life.

01:00:11 Questions parents and players should be asking scouts.

01:04:00 Advice for what parents and players should prioritize during summers.

01:17:00 What role does an agent play in the athletes career?

RESOURCES + LINKS

Austin Riley on Youth Baseball, College Recruitment, and MLB Success

Episode 2

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 • Duration 01:32:07

This episode is your survival guide from your young athlete’s crazy summer schedules to the mental and physical preparation it takes to sign and thrive in the big league. In this episode I sit down with my client and friend, Braves superstar Austin Riley to discuss his journey from youth baseball to negotiating and signing a life changing contract in MLB. Austin shares invaluable lessons on developing your skills, whether your young athlete should be involved in multiple sports, and navigating the recruiting process. He also provides a behind-the-scenes look at his contract negotiations with the Braves and how he prioritizes being a husband, father, growing his brand, and developing as a player in his career. If you want real tips for the journey to pro baseball, and what set Austin apart in each stage got him to where he is today - you don’t want to miss this episode.

00:00 Austin Riley’s journey from youth baseball to the pros.

09:00 Should young athletes play multiple sports?

13:34 What age do youth baseball players start hearing from college and pro scouts?

23:30 Things parents can do to set their athlete up for success.

29:00 Tips for choosing a player advisor you can trust.

31:15 What is the college recruitment and commitment process like?

37:00 Pros of playing college baseball and navigating draft decisions.

39:00 Making off-field money and its impact on on-field performance.

45:15 How do you balance prioritizing your career, growing your brand, and endorsements?

49:45 Sacrifices and work ethic through the demands of the summer schedule that made a difference to where Austin is today.

52:00 What did your parents guide you to do that was a factor in your success?

55:15 The most influential moment during the draft experience that changed how Austin showed up.

Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Most Valuable Agent with Matt Hannaford – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Instagram43

Other29

Youtube12

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Instagram43

Other29

Youtube12

Apple Podcasts

Spotify