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The Final Strike

We discuss spring training, injuries and how the roster could unfold

Podcast · By Stephen Heckman · English · Official site

Indexed episodes, last 90 days
8
Latest publication
Sep 6, 2026
Audience
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Earliest in this view
Jul 6, 2026

Latest episodes

  1. Episode · Sep 6, 2026

    Orioles in Freefall: Fan Fury Over Errors, Bungled Strategy, and Albernaz (opens the original)

    Episode notes · Critical tone

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    Stephen Heckman delivers a blunt breakdown of the Orioles' slump after a four-game sweep by Boston, blasting manager Craig Albernaz for poor fundamentals, baserunning and defensive errors, and confusing bullpen usage. He contrasts the front office moves and injuries with coaching shortcomings and declining on-field execution. Heckman also addresses fan frustration, roster decisions, and the uncertain outlook with 19 games left, arguing the team has the talent but lacks consistent leadership and

  2. Episode · Aug 31, 2026

    Orioles Surge: Luis Roberts Joins, Bullpen Heats Up, Henderson Breaks Out (opens the original)

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    10. Orioles complete a sweep of Oakland and continue a strong road performance.9. Bullpen numbers have improved, with recent low ERAs and solid late-game work.8. Baltimore claims Luis Roberts off waivers to add a right-handed bat and outfield depth.7. Gunnar Henderson fires a breakout game, giving the lineup a major boost.6. Pete Alonzo is checked after a head impact; team monitors injuries and lineup flexibility.5. Felix Bautista shows promise in AAA rehab outings, raising expectations for a re

  3. Episode · Aug 24, 2026

    Orioles Stumble: Cowser’s Spark Amid Bullpen Breakdown (opens the original)

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    Attention, please. The show starts in...., 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, go. What is going on, Birdland? And Stephen Heckman here for the Final Strike Podcast, brought to you by the Baltimore Battery. We are coming to you after the Baltimore Orioles drop the final game of the series against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays today. 3-1. Seems like the only person who showed up to play any offense today was Colton Cowser. He had both hits for the Baltimore Orioles, both extra base hits. Mind you, on junk pitc

  4. Episode · Aug 3, 2026

    Orioles Shock the World: Adley Rutschman Traded in Deadline Bombshell (opens the original)

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    Special edition after the trade deadline: the Baltimore Orioles made several surprising moves — including sending Adley Rutschman to Boston, trading Taylor Ward and Tyler Wells, and moving other key pieces — that left fans outraged and questioning GM Mike Elias’ direction.The episode breaks down the returns (multiple prospects and cash), the possible reasons behind the decisions (injuries, Rutschman’s reported unwillingness to re-sign), and how the roster and prospect pool could shape Baltimore’

  5. Episode · Aug 2, 2026

    Rain-Shortened Rout: Orioles 8-0 Loss and Trade-Deadline Drama (opens the original)

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    Stephen Heckman breaks down the Orioles' rain-shortened 8-0 loss, the team's offensive struggles, and the looming trade-deadline decisions as Baltimore heads into the final day at 6 p.m. ET. The episode covers Adley Rutschman's contract uncertainty, Samuel Basello's injury and catcher depth, the Dean Kramer trade, bullpen and defensive shortcomings, and potential targets and prospects linked to roster moves. Heckman closes by asking Birdland for reactions and predictions as the Orioles face a ma

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