Here’s What MLB Scouts Actually Look For (It’s Not What You Think)

Ever wondered what it really takes to catch the eye of a Major League Baseball scout?

In this powerhouse episode of the Most Valuable Agent podcast, host Matt sits down with Gus Quattlebaum, VP of Scouting Development & Integration for the Boston Red Sox, and Johan Martinez-Khalilian, elite coach to athletes and artists.

Together, they reveal how pro teams evaluate talent—from advanced data and video review to the critical role of mindset, failure, and intangibles that can't be measured. Whether you're a player, parent, or baseball fanatic, this episode offers an insider view into modern scouting and the path to the pros.

You'll learn:
• What scouts look for beyond stats
• The biggest mental hurdles players face
• Why emotional maturity is a game-changer
• The true story behind Ryan Brasier’s big-league comeback
• How to assess the right development path for your kid

Plus: Gus opens up about his journey with MS and how he's giving back through MS4MS.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & introductions
03:00 – What does a modern MLB scout really do?
06:00 – The growing role of data in talent evaluation
10:00 – Why intangibles like instincts and mindset still matter
16:00 – How scouts project physical growth and strength
21:00 – The importance of training age and development environments
27:00 – Ryan Brasier's journey: From minor leagues in Japan to Red Sox hero
33:00 – How failure and adversity shape future pros
38:00 – What happens during in-home visits & why honesty wins
43:00 – The commitment factor: Why "jumping ship" raises eyebrows
49:00 – Red flags vs. readiness: What scouts notice that parents don’t
54:00 – Gus's MS diagnosis, life perspective, and the work of MS4MS

👍 Enjoyed this episode? Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and leave a COMMENT!

🔗 Connect with us:
Gus:   / egqiv  
Matt:   / mfhannaford  

#BaseballScouting #MLBProspects #youthbaseball