Holiday Cheer & Border Patrol – keeping Canadian fans home

• Hockey World Junior Championships Minnesota, close to Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta
• Games not 1/3 full at Championships
• Some game stands appeared completely empty

Roberto Clemente 21

• Died on New Years Eve while performing a humanitarian service to earthquake victims
• Roberto Clemente Foundation continues to serve those in need https://robertoclementefoundation.org/ 
• Why did Robert Clemente wear number 21 as his number

Family members in the game together - Joe Torre & Frank Torre; Wilson & William Contreras; Austin & Parker Meadows; Kyle & Preston Tucker

Kyle Tucker Free Agent - SF Giants could be a great fit for Kyle Tucker

Could Rays bring on Kyle Tucker 

• Rays productive bats - Caminero, Diaz & Aranda
• Have Tucker on team when Rays open new stadium
• Bo Bichette from St. Pete

Sour Lemons – how to make Baseball Lemonade

• Nolan Arenado leaving St. Louis – change should be good
• Arte Moreno & Angels outlook
• Nolan Arenado, Cardinals & the Angels – what sours a team?
• Angels brought Ron Washington, Travis d’Arnaud, Soler & still no positive vibe
• Angels - ineffective job developing players in minor league affiliates
• "Losing breeds Losing" Angels not building up their AA minor league talent
• Arte Moreno & Stu Sternberg conversation?
• A plethora of mercenaries

Home sales market dropping in Florida applies to the Rays, How does that impact Real Estate mogul & Rays owner balancing his Dream Home business with Rays

Give new ownership some leeway as they come in with so many changes including finding a location for a new stadium

WBC – World Baseball Classic & MLB Spring Training

MLB teams have 5 weeks to determine their roster before Spring Training & WBC starting

Off Season & baseball activities and collectibles

• $7,475 for Ty Cobb dentures. 
• High value for paint on a canvas 
• Jerseys & memories
• 1 collector bought a jersey from every player on his favorite team
• Ceramic Cows 
• Framing Evan Longoria for $20  – work project – Jersey, plexiglass and wood 

New Years resolutions 

• Increase Women baseball shows, Don’t do bad things, Craig Calcaterra “be better critical thinkers”
• Need on political landscape for a more factual and not reactionary response
• New & more frequent YouTube content

Kansas City Royals & the Kansas City Chiefs

• Chiefs may move from Missouri to Kansas
• Royals Kauffman Stadium adjacent to Chief’s Arrowhead Stadium
• 2031 Royals Kauffman stadium contract expires & Chiefs move into new stadium
• Time to consider making a change to their names – Kansas Monarchs

Top 10 Worthwhile projects for positives in the world including The Ocean Cleanup 

Remember the Season of Giving & Positive Change

The Ocean Cleanup – https://theoceancleanup.com/ effective change to remove plastics from rivers and the oceans

We are headed in the right direction

by 2031 “they will have rid the oceans of about 70 to 80% of the plastics that are in there right now” 

 Find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark @  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, @ iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, & at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
 Special Thanks to XTaKe-R-U-X for the music Rocking Forward

• RaysUp Off Season subtraction is actually a strong positive 
• More Christmas presents to come
• 3-Way Trade with Pittsburgh 
•  Brandon Lowe to Pirates – currently contract at $11.5 million contract
• Jake Mangum & Chandler Simpson – similar players – 
• Mason Montgomery – left handed starter and/or lethal closer like Aroldis Chapman
• Mike Burrows & Houston Astros
• Jacob Melton to the Rays – Kevin Kiermaier’ish outfield performance plus some hitting strength
• Anderson Brito – one of the talents when you can see the ceiling of being a number 1
• Rays building a strong rotation at A+ level 
• Shane Baz example - jumping from A to AA to Majors  - skipping AAA altogether
• 21-year old Brito will be coming up with Santiago Suarez. Trevor Harrison, Jose Urbina, and Andres Golan
• His fielder independent, , he had one of 2.91 and Santiago. Suarez, who's been consistently in the top 10, uh, prospects for the Rays is at 2.97
• Brito was an immediate improvement – to the Rays
• Rays got more from the Shane Baz deal than they did with the Chris Archer deal
• Future with prospects versus playoffs this year
• Lethal rotation with Drew Rasmussen. Ryan Pepiot. Shane McClanahan. Steven Mattson. Joe Boyle. 
• What would Rays do if Shane McClanahan goes down  – Rays could bring in  Ian Seymour, Joe Rock, &  Osvaldo Bido
• Yoendrys Gomez – relief/starting pitcher comes in from the White Sox
• Shane Baz’s potential to become an ace pitcher versus potential health issues
• Catcher of the future for the Rays – 
• Ketel Marte 2 tiers above Brandon Lowe
• Brandon Donovan
• Cardinals, Chaim Bloom's very familiar with Taylor Walls
• Jadher Areinamo
• 2nd base is solveable
• Cedric Mullins is sliding into that Manuel Margot role – stronger Right Field?
• Where does Josh Lowe wind up
• Shane Baz traded places
• Michael Forret – what will he add to pitching depth
• Catcher, Caden Bodine – significant hit tool
• Slater de Brun compared to Corbin Carroll & musical talent
• Austin Overn like Colton Ledbetter with 2X the speed
• Increasing the pressure in the Rays affiliate program
• Compensation pick –  essentially adding a first round pick for the Rays
• Shane Baz trade =  Zach Eflin & four other prospects
• How much have the Rays cleared up in salaries 
• Brandon Lowe - $11.5 million, Shane Baz - $3.5 million plus
• Ketel Marte is currently making $12.5 million
• Could Richie Palacios split time with Taylor Walls
• Jonny DeLuca, Taylor Walls & Josh Lowe are still on the roster today
• The 3-way trade & Ryan Pepiot’s arm with the D-backs
• Future show on the web of the Rays impact across several MLB Front Offices
• The Chicago White Rays – Duncan David, Curtis Mead, Ben Peoples, Alexander Alberto, Everson Pereira, Mike Vasil
• Mets move Jeff McNeil to Athletics’
• Will Mets pick up Kyle Tucker or Cody Bellinger
• Would like to see Eugenio Suarez to Marlins
• The Cardinals, Curt Flood, the Reserve Clause & the fight for Free Agency
• Curt Flood’s letter to Baseball Commissioner, Bowie Kun
• People are still talking $400 million for Kyle Tucker, they're still talking, 300 million for Bo Bichette.
• Ketel Marte to the Rays would be a great Christmas 
• Happy Festivus to the Rest of Us

Find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark @  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, @ iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, & at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
Special Thanks to XTaKe-R-U-X for the music Rocking Forward

 It’s World Series time! Mat & Mark break down the 2025 matchup between the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers, diving into the storylines, rivalries, and what this series means for both nations. 

Dodgers will not take their foot off the gas pedal

Tyler Glasnow is kind of a hit and miss pitcher, however

Blake Snell pitching effectiveness for the Dodgers

Batting power with Ernie Clement

Blue Jays players are 150% behind their manager

If Toronto takes 1 or 2 of the games in LA it could be a 6 or 7 game World Series

Former Blue Jay, Teoscar Hernandez is a powerful hitter for Dodgers, he will be able to deliver the scouting dirt on his former team

The return of Bo Bichette 

Question on depth of Blue Jays bullpen

Max Scherzer will be able to offer insight on his former team, the Dodgers

Mariners suffered with bullpen against the Blue Jays – certainly with George Springer

Jays Scherzer & Chris Bassitt – will they pitch more innings in World Series

Mariners

Logan Gilbert did not have his best results against the Blue Jays

Getting to know Bazardo     

Facing George Springer at bat “

Mariners Coach Dan Wilson's fearful look during their games with the Blue Jays

Jays Schneider exudes confidence

MLB 2025 Postseason Strong viewership this year

ALCS, between the Mariners and the Blue Jays, had 10 million viewers, a 32% increase in viewership over previous year

Playoffs games are averaging 4.3 million viewers. a 30% increase over last year

ALDS game 5 drew 8.72 million viewers – most viewership since 2011

ALCS, between the Mariners and the Blue Jays, had 10 million viewers - 32% increase in viewership over previous year

Playoffs games are averaging 4.3 million viewers. a 30% increase over last year

ALDS game 5 drew 8.72 million viewers – most viewership since 2011

Canadian audience contributed significantly to all of the numbers

Game 7 of the ALCS - record breaking viewership on SportsNet and SportsNet Plus, which brought in 11.8 million Canadians to the broadcast

WPBL League announces 4 city locations for 2026 launch – Boston, New York, Los Angeles & San Francisco

How will WPBL build audience to watch the game via tv, streaming & etc

Mo'ne Davis

Justine Siegal instrumental with Baseball For All & now WPBL

Need for Intra-sport support across MLB, NHL, NFL

Winter League games w/Major Leaguers like Nick Castellanos, Jason Chourio

Sports Equinox  - Get your remotes, popcorn and pizza ready - Monday, October 27, 2025, games being played across MLB, NHL & NFL

Mat’s journey to the Baltimore ESPN zone 

Harold Ramirez still out their working in Mexican League to get back into MLB

RaysUp – what is coming up with Pete Alonso & Luis Arráez

MLB “Meritocracy” Debate: MLB’s diversity page changes spark discussion on inclusivity and representation. 

DEI – DoD – Jackie Robinson take down and the brought back up

MLB.com changes to their DEI pages -  less inclusive of diversity than before?

Be aware of GroupThink

Aliens & Epstein files soon to be released

Go Jays!

Find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark @  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, @ iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
Special Thanks to XTaKe-R-U-X for the music "Rocking Forward"

Mat & Mark check out the 5 game winning streak of the Rays and a look to the future of the Tampa Bay Rays roster and how that will impact the team

•  Grit & Glow uniform Rave Reviews
• Rays selling strategy with the new City Connect uniforms and Nike
• Black Rays jersey are they bringing the energy to the team
• Armstrong & Palacios – on how to create a positive vibe
• Sea Change – Prospero’s vision from the Tempest with Jonny DeLuca
• For the month of May DeLuca is 11th in weighted runs. Randy Arozarena is 16th
• Tracking the pitches well           
• When will Junior Caminero be on the roster
  • Super 2’s a factor in decisions on bringing players up
  • Always Room to improve, work on speed to come
• Durham Bulls lineup is strong  tonight - Brandon Lowe, Junior Caminero, Jonathan Aranda, Curtis Mead, Yu Chang, etc.
• Some MLB teams would have a difficult time playing the Durham Bulls.
• Rays are rolling with 5 wins in a row.
• Upcoming 4 game series in May include AL East teams, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays & Baltimore Orioles
• It is tough to be a Chicago White Sox or Marlins fan just ask Nick Murawski of Good Guys Talk Back https://bit.ly/4bzHFBU
• Marlins GM, Peter Bendix, is taking first steps to building a new team as Luis Arraez is traded.  Much better than Yelich trade. Marlins get 3 new players
• White Sox least analytical team in MLB
• eX-Rays - Tommy Pham w/ White Sox, Joey Wendle w/ Mets, Willy Adames & Jake Bauers w/ Brewers
• Craig Calcaterra shares the experience with Willy in his “Cup of Coffee” newsletter 
• Willy Adames calls the home run to some friendly Kansas City Royals fans https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoFp2mklA84
•  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgyTIeSduhQ
• Yandy Diaz & Willy Adames sharing friendship in Milwaukee
• Notes on game 3 with Chicago White Sox – Kyle Snyder mound pitch
• Aaron Civale is struggling early into the game – 4th inning 
• Chad Mottola working with the Tampa Bay Rays batters
• Manuel Rodriguez – funky move on his pitches – (could he be Diego Castillo)
• Major League superstitions and rituals, Jason Adam & Manny Navarro Bear Hug
• Carbing up with Spaghetti & Pancakes
• Kevin Kelly came in and got the Rays out of a bases loaded situation
• Support for the Tampa Bay Rays new stadium. It is a critical moment we request that fans be vocal to insure agreements are finalized between the Rays and councilman. We don’t want another Montreal who lost their team
• When will the shovel hit the ground and turn the earth – hope to see that within the next 5 weeks
• Get your Grit and Glow going!

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark can be found on Twitter x.com  @TheBaseballBiz & and at  http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward"

Mat & Mark look for a positive future with potential Tampa Bay Rays Roster Changes and new life from MLB City Connect uniform gear

• Randy & Yandy - trying to do everything
• Josh Lowe, Deluca & Aranda’s return soon to come
• Bernie the Brewer & Tampa Bay Rays mascot Raymond – launched from on-high
• William Contreras – Catcher strategies – what if the Rays had landed him
• Tyler Black’s debut with the Brewers had his first 2 hits against 2 left handed hitters
• Brewers Manager, Pat Murphy bringing a new fire to the team & competitive edge to the team
• Yankees’ Aaron Judge slap down of ball 
• Murphy stands up for his team – ejected 2x this year – 5x in 2015 with Padres
• 2024  Projections of Ejections  = 12 for Pat Murphy
• Tommy LaSorda kicking up sand 
• Mat’s take: Siri’s “pimpable” home run, resulting in a Hit by Pitch delivered by Freddy Peralta.
• Siri facing off Uribe at first base delivered a gaffe factor that resulted in a fight
• Tampa Bay Rays – lackadaisical response to the field fight -  “is it worth it?”
• Mat examines the cohesiveness of the team
• Who are we keeping, who are we trading, Roster changes to come – Junior Caminero
• Erasmo Ramirez too good for AAA but not good enough for the MLB Show
• Rays Pitching and the Ghost IL – when will Shane Baz & Brendan McKay as relievers
• Why have Rays not built good relievers in their farm system
• Value of Starting Pitchers as Relievers?
• Shane Baz as a Major League reliever?
• Start with a limited number of innings when Baz returns. No need to have him as a starter
• Dodgers, Julio Urias example of building a reliever as a starter
• Starters coming back Jeffrey Springs & Taj Bradley 
• Drew Rasmussen, follow Nate Eovaldi example?
• Ryan Pepiot stats compared to Tyler Glasnow – similarities with WHIP exception
• Mat’s preseason projections included: Taj Bradley, Ryan Pepiot & Jeffrey Springs as top 3 starters for the Rays
• Rays starter pitchers inventory is 
• Junior Caminero needs to be called up – Rays could have similar experience as Brewers when they brought 
• Tampa Bay City Connect Uniforms - Bring a spark to the team,  wear the new City Connect uniforms when Caminero comes to the Trop
• Can we make the uniforms glow in the dark – catapult Raymond across the sky
• White Sox & Brewers trip – loving the White Sox scoreboard & Milwaukee Johnsonville
• Jackson Chourio – 8 year, $80 million contract – similar to Randy’s 1 year $8 million contract
• Brewers have 2nd youngest team in MLB – look at William Contreras
• Mat provides his scouting grocery list for the Rays
• Glue Guy return of Josh Lowe
• eX-Rays with Mets – Joey Wendle & Mike Brosseau
• Wouldn’t be nice if Pete Alonso signed with the Tampa Bay Rays
• Minor leaguers making their way to the Rays like Carson Williams, Chandler Simpson & others by mid-May

Apologies to Major League Baseball, Bob Uecker & Chris Farley

 Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark an be found on Twitter x.com  @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking F

Mat Germain & Mark need an Men In Black memory wipe for this April. 
Where are we and how do we climb up

• Turnaround for Randy Arozarena needed – changing superstitions & rituals. 
• Randy’s Home Run against Tigers the beginning of an improved Arozarena
• Changing the mindset of a player 
• Limited Runs and lack of Extra Base Hits – dramatically less than 2023
• 59 HRs in April 2023 compared to 19 thus far April 2024
• Super 2’s salaries with the Rays – what can be expected with Randy Arozarena compared to Junior Caminero
• MLP & MLBPA need to review the antiquated Super 2 program
• Erik Neander never been hesitant to trade a good player
• Carson Williams could come up and takeover shortstop & Jose Caballero could move to Left Field
• October Randy – how bad do we want to keep Randy for his outstanding playoff’s performance
• $8.1 million Randy salary could make him too expensive for Rays budget – look at Kevin Kiermaier, Charlie Morton & Zach Eflin salaries on Ray’s willingness to pay more
• Who would the Ray’s remove from the roster to afford Randy
• Evan Longoria & Joey Wendle deals
• Do we move Arozarena down in the lineup
• Frustrating bench – Why are we not seeing more of Austin Shenton and others at the plate
• Yandy Diaz & Randy Arozarena’s performance are critical to the Tampa Bay Rays 
• MIB Neuralizer needed to forget Ray’s April
• Kevin Cash will soon have a stronger bench 
• 19:15 Ben Rortvedt  – in top 5 for framing plus now he has a productive bat BA .333
• Ryan Pepiot – overall Ray’s pitching has been good. Rays' failings from the Pen & Offense
• Pete Fairbanks will be back soon 
• Bullpen Analysis - Garrett Cleavinger, Jason Adam, Maton, Shawn Armstrong
• Colin Poche – has loss some velocity. He was more effective with curveball & slider in 2022
• Charitable Foundations – Pete Fairbanks Strikeout for Turner Syndrome foundation https://givebutter.com/zVMxr2
• Kevin Cash 3 wins needed to surpass Joe Maddon as the Rays Manager with the most wins
• Tyler Alexander former Detroit Tiger facing his teammates
• Parker Meadows and Austin Meadows brothers both have played with the Detroit Tigers
• Cleveland Indians & Terry Francona have been a great source for Tampa Bay Rays players
• eX-Ray – Tommy Pham could add fire to the Chicago White Sox
• White Sox up next – will they get to double digits in wins by June?
• Harold Ramirez is a revelation with his speed & athleticism
• Rays’ White Sox & Brewers road trip – places to go & fandom
• Brendan McKay has not allowed a run yet this year in the minors
• Josh Lowe the "Glue Guy" will be returning soon with his .385 avg from 2023
• The Rays sunlight is coming

 Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark an be found on Twitter x.com  @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward" 

• Rays & 13 inning game with the Anaheim Angels
• MLBDevelops TrailblazerSeries at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex
• @USABaseball @USABaseball Mo'ne Davis, Tamara Holmes, Megan Meidlinger, Lefty Lesko, Maybelle Blair & Perry Barber at the event
• @Mat_Germain_  shares story of daughter’s friend playing baseball in the province
• Rays scrapping their way through the AL East
• Blue Jays came up short when pitching to Yankees Juan Soto
• Kansas City Royals are living up to Mat’s expectations – loving Bobby Witt Jr.
• Cleveland Guardians have a path to a great season
• Brewers & Cubs fans are having good seasons to watch
• House of Cards with the Dodgers – Clayton Kershaw’s impact
• Steve Cohen and his Mets, an owner who cares
• Mark is less than positive about the Rays & asks Mat about the pitching rotation options if everyone is healthy, Shane McClanahan, Shane Baz, Taj Bradley, Drew Rasmussen, Jeffrey Springs
• Mat expects as pitchers become healthy that the bullpen will be strengthened
• Keeping the Rays players hungry up to the postseason
• The heart & soul of Jose Caballero. Holding strong to shortstop position. He was critical to the 13 inning win against the Angels
• Strike Out Mike Trout parties – Future HOF
• Jose Siri's  fielding tenacity. & strong on the bases with 6 SBs compared 12 SBs for entire 2023 season. 
• Harold Ramirez – runs hard to first – An example for all to push it to first, unlike Manny Machado in the past.
• What to expect from the TRays bullpen – Phil Maton gave up 5 runs in 1 inning. His high leverage numbers have not been good. 
• Cannot depend solely on Jason Adam & Poche in the bullpen
• Chicago White Sox not great. What trades should they make? Garrett Crochet, Luis Robert Jr.?
• Nick Murawski – Good Guys Talk Back -  anchor.fm/good-guys-talk-back 
• Jac Caglianone, UF Baseball player hits 516 ft home run
• Hard hitter displays – Mat offers that teams have a masher come in during 7th inning stretch to display their talents bto the crowd
• Tommy White: Great performer, humble man & player. More BB than SO', 1000 plus OPS
• 2-way players - Would Rays consider another 2-way player after experience with  Brendan McKay & $7 million signing bonus
• Isaac Paredes, amazing at bats. Should be at 3rd spot in the lineup.
• Junior Caminero at 2nd base – poll results
• Give players a reason to continue to earn their position in the lineups including Randy Arozarena
• Reid Dietmers, Angels pitcher facing off w/ Zack Littell
• Josh Lowe & Taj Bradley rehabbing
•  Chandler Simpson & Brayden Taylor, Seymour & Brandon McKay

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark can be found on Twitter x.com  @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward"

Mat Germain & Mark Corbett – Somethings cooking in the Rays kitchen

• "Winningly Good”
• Marlins rough road
• Colorado Rockies – Pete Fairbanks. The balls are horrible.
•  “That’s what happens when you don’t throw strikes”
• Velo down 2 MPH - Pete doesn’t do well in the cold
• Rays pen was out of sorts in first Rockies game
• Ryan Pepiot – 11K in 6 innings, was the trade worth it. 
• Glasnow threw 14K in 7 innings
• Angels series  - Is that Chris Farley shouting from the stands
• Ron Washington is working to invigorate the Angels team
• Angels will visit the Rays at the Trop – definitely worth getting a ticket to see future HOF’er Mike Trout
• Ron Washington coaching brought strength to Dansby Swanson & others when he was with the Atlanta Braves
• Will Blake Snell take the mound against Rays next week at the Trop
• Will they pull Blake in the 5th inning
• Austin Shenton – DH of the day 
• Rays strategy had 2 righties and then a lefty lineup to shake up Angels pitching
• Off-balanced Rays batting lineup missing key left-handed batters, Jonathan Aranda, Brandon Lowe, Josh Lowe & DeLuca. Opportunity for Shenton to get his reps
• Jose Caballero- he is “Electric” – steal of a trade 
  • Working hard & looks like a Gold Glover. Spinning & Throwing. 
  • More speed than Franco. He is a 5 WAR Shortstop. 
  • Golden Glove performances with Caballero & Yandy Diaz
• Siri is getting on base more effectively
• Strong arm of Rortvedt
• Zack Littell- came through with a tough first inning with the Angels
• Cleavinger & Poche a bit erratic in the bullpen
• Rays now above .500
• Marlins are not competitive 
• eX-Rays Front Office  move - Pete Bendix now with the Marlins
• Marlins Scouting dept found lacking, Need a Alex Anthopoulos approach to rebuild a productive team
• Tommy Pham & Brandon Belt, 2 Free Agents that could help the Miami Marlins be a stronger team. 
• "tanking” strategy for 2024 Marlins?.
• There is a reason that Kim Ng left Miami
• Colorado Rockies weather Cold & Windy.  How does it impact pitching speeds & finding ball trajectory
• Brandon Lowe injury - right oblique.  Will the Rays keep Brandon? 
• Judge was able to negotiate a contract with Yankess amidst injury history.
• Upcoming games at the Trop with SF Giants & Angels. 
• Angels may see Littell and Civale again when they come to St. Pete.
• Will Rays see Blake take the mound. 
• Rays rotation should fare well with Eflin, Civale & Littell against the Yankees
• Should Rays expect a sweep of the Giants at the Trop. What will it look like against Webb & Snell?
• Robby Ray, the new cheap team uniforms & pink underwear
• Rays Minor Leagues are looking good – starting pitching has been strong.
• What will it be like once Taj Bradley returns
• Mat has a lot of faith in this year’s Tampa Bay Rays

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark can be found on Twitter x.com  @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify

Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward”

Mark and Mat discuss Tampa Bay Rays Opening Week and a look at baseball luminaries and failures amongst other MLB teams

• Opening week review: The Rays' performance in first 7games, facing tough opponents like Toronto Blue Jays and World Series Champions Texas Rangers.
• Analysis of other AL East teams:  Red Sox, Yankees, Orioles, and Blue Jays' early season performances.
• Oakland A's - Athletics set new Error records
• Bryce Harper 0 for 11 AB's and then 3 HRs in 1 game
•  Jose Caballero's impact on the team & the competitive atmosphere among young players.
• Caballero & Genesis Cabrera pushing and patience
• Pitching strategies: Insights on the Rays' rotation and bullpen, including thoughts on Ryan Pepiot and Shane Baz.
• Showcase of pitchers with Rangers' Nate Eovaldi, Rays' Zach Eflin & Civale
• Injury updates: Shane Baz's setback and the team's approach to managing pitcher health.
• Looking ahead: Preview of upcoming series against the Rockies and Angels, and expectations for the team moving forward.
• Measuring a Pitcher's success - ERA, Wins, Saves, Innings, FIPs, what is most important metric?
• Mat's experience watching Ray's Opening Day from Canada across multiple media outlets
• Following emerging talent, Wyatt Langford, Jackson Chourio & Bobby Witt Jr.
• Can Rays get Luis Arraez from the Marlins
• Wyatt Langford - Florida native
• eX-Rays play between Twins' Manuel Margot and Brewers' Willie Adames & Jake Bauers
• Minor League Season has begun, Durham Bulls & Joe Rock
• Mark talks about the transition from Spring Training to Minor League teams  Tampa Tarpons, Dunedin Blue Jays, Clearwater Threshers

Thanks to Mat Germain, Mr. Wizard, for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch find more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify

Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward”

Mat Germain & Mark Corbett – Tampa Bay Rays MLB Opening Day Eve give #RaysUp fans the lowdown

• Tampa Bay Rays Roster Prep for 2024 season
• Blake Snell finally signs a contract, what about Tommy Pham
• Austin Shenton moves up from AAA Durham Bulls to MLB Rays for Opening Day
• First 2 weeks of the schedule includes Toronto Blue Jays, Texas Rangers, San Francisco Giants & the Dodgers
• What to expect with the Dodgers with Tyler Glasnow when facing the Rays
• Giants have Bob Melving as Manager and Dusty Baker in the front office.
• Japanese Players adapting to MLB how do teams help them, Yoshi Tsutsugo
• Rays trade Uwasawa
• AL East rivalries and the excitement of opening day.
• "We're here to stay" and the progress on the new stadium.
• Zach Eflin opening day pitcher for the #TBRays.
• Toronto Blue Jays, Jose Berrios as the opposing pitcher and his performance last season.
• What will be the outcome of the opening series against the Toronto Blue Jays.
• They discuss the Rays' performance in spring training and notable players like Willy Adames and Shane McClanahan.
• Brendan McKay's return from injury and his potential impact on the team.
• Evan Longoria's status and Mike Zunino's recent retirement.
• Rays' acquisition of Ben Rortvedt from the Yankees and his impact on the team. Other options, Rene Pinto, Francisco Mejia & Alex Jackson
• Mat’s projected Opening Day #TBRays Lineup includes Yandy Diaz, Harold Ramirez DH as no-brainers
• Players ability to adapt to a new culture - Yoshi Tsutsugo with the Rays 
• Rays traded Uwasawa to Red Sox – empowering a divisional rival
• Rays front office flexibility to try new things, as when they brought on Nelson Cruz
• Wander Franco still on the 40 man roster – when will Rays be able to drop him and make room for another player
• Mat’s Annual #Rays Predictions include 
• 10  #Rays will hit double digits in HR 
• 9 Hitters will have SO% below 25%
• 4 pitchers will earn 10+ wins 3: significant in-season trades will occur 
• 2 Pinto will have 2nd highest fWAR among C in AL
• Length of the #Rays lineup
• Rene Pinto will have 2nd highest fWAR among C in AL
• Fans Quick Twitch response to Rays Offseason
• Mat offer’s Rays fans chance to rate the Rays Offseason Scouting Scale
•  Outstanding?
• On a scouting scale (20 being lowest, 80 being highest), how would you rate the #Rays offseason? #MLB
• You can still vote and see the results at https://twitter.com/Mat_Germain_/status/1773069550684160042
• Mat will be making some bold predictions on x.com  https://twitter.com/Mat_Germain_

Prepare for the Joy of MLB Opening Day

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch find more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify

Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward”

Florida Bolts 5 teams give young girls from 8 to 18 the opportunity to play in all girl baseball tournaments. Brooke & Lily Greene share their stories about their team and more possibilities for women in the game like the BFA Nationals.   

• Brooke and Lily Greene, who are involved with the Florida Bolts girls' baseball organization, discussing their passion for women and girls' baseball.
• Brooke Greene took over the Florida Bolts organization in January 2022.
• She was introduced to girls' baseball by a friend and was surprised by the number of girls interested in the sport.
• Started with one team and now has five teams,
• Importance of girls playing in both all-girl tournaments & local leagues to raise awareness about girls playing baseball.
• Cost prohibitive nature of travel ball and how the Florida Bolts try to keep costs low through sponsorships and fundraising.
• Lily hopes for the game to grow and be more welcoming to women.
• Brooke's love for baseball stems from her family's involvement 

Building Support for Women's Baseball

• Need for more support and visibility for women's baseball, suggesting the creation of a separate women's league.
• Brooke encourages perseverance in the face of challenges, emphasizing the talent and dedication of girls in baseball.

Future Outlook

• Lily aims for a baseball scholarship or a career in sports management.
• Brooke envisions retired MLB players with daughters investing in women's baseball to propel it forward.
• Potential impact of Derek Jeter's involvement in supporting women's baseball, highlighting the need for strong leadership and collaboration to advance the sport.

Challenges in Women's Baseball

• Lack of cohesiveness among girls' baseball organizations, noting the presence of several independent teams without a unified goal.
• Importance of collaboration and a shared vision to establish a women's baseball league

Florida Bolts' Activities

• BFA Nationals in Kentucky,  & the DMV series in Maryland.
• Team's efforts to host an all-girls baseball clinic sponsored by the Tampa Bay Rays, aimed at promoting the sport and providing skills training to participants.

Future Outlook Florida Bolts

• Need a Summit akin to MLB's winter meetings to bring together various women's baseball organizations
• Importance of fundraising and sponsorships for the Florida Bolts
• Lily encourages perseverance and dedication, urging listeners to stay true to themselves and keep pushing forward.
• Brooke reiterates the need for continued momentum and collaboration to make women's baseball a reality, emphasizing the impact of community support in achieving this goal.
• Discover more about the Florida Bolts Girls Baseball teams and support them @ www.floridabolts.squarespace.com
  Or reach out to them at Floridaboltsbaseball@yahoo.com

Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Mat Germain & Mark Corbett review the Tampa Bay Rays Spring Training and get ready for the 2024 upcoming MLB season

• Tampa Bay Pitching Arms
• Rodriguez on board as Andrew Kittredge departs 
• Phil Maton 
• Jose Caballero – short stop – his speed is electric 
• Ruben Cardenas 
• Austin Shenton 
• Rays Shortstop position evolution – Adames, Franco, Walls & now Caballero 
•  Mark misspeaks - Who is Carson Mead
• Curtis Mead – 2nd or 1st base position similar to Jonathan Aranda 
• Carson Williams 
• Jose Caballero – Super utility guy, aggressive steal bases 
• Mat believes Rays could reach 175 to 200 stolen bases this season 
• Chandler Simpson will be breaking records for the future on Rays speed 
• Jake Odorizzi – an old friend returns to the Rays. Not a flashy guy maybe delivering 8K for 9. 
• Kittredge – what is his future post Rays 
• Waiting for Jeffrey Springs, Shane Baz, Drew Rasmussen to return later this year. 
• Pitching Rotation – Zach Eflin, Civale, Littel, (injured) Taj Bradley 
• Who will fill in for Taj – One of the 3 Jakes? 
  • Jacob (Wags) Waguespack 
  • Jacob Lopez 
  • Jake Odorizzi
• Pitching Injured Lists across the leagues – Verlander & Urquidy with Astros, Cole with Yankees, Bautista with Orioles, Giolito with Red Sox 
• Rays Injured Pitcher list includes – Shane McClanahan, Jeffrey Springs, Drew Rasmussen, Taj Bradley, Shane Baz, 
• Ryan Pepiot – what will his mix of pitches bring to the game 
• Rays do not need a Jordan Montgomery or a Blake Snell 
• What will the Rays Infield look like 
• Mainstays to build on – Yandy Diaz, Jonathan Aranda, Isaac Paredes 
• DH spot – Harold Ramirez, Brandon Lowe will Curtis Mead be sent down to AAA 
• DeLuca & Rosario join the team
•  Rosario's bat adds strength to the Rays
• The bench is strong 
• Strength of the Rays now – 2024 season, bullpen, lineup steadiness, strong outfield and speed on the bases. 
• 2024 Tampa Bay Rays season – what does the AL East look like
•  PECOTA  – loaded up heavy on the Yankees at top of the AL East. 
•  At this time Mat sees top 3 of AL East most likely will include Baltimore Orioles, Tampa Bay Rays & Toronto Blue Jays 
• Banged up Yankees could be relying solely on Juan Soto 
• MLB Myopia on Yandy Diaz being unrecognized because he is with the Rays. 
• Yandy Diaz – first place ranking in fantasy baseball 
• Randy Arozarena – Bulked Up for 2024 – More HRs this season
• NCAA brackets, 64 teams & Dickie V Cinderella stories – You have to invite Cinderella to the ball, another reason to enjoy the expanded MLB postseason 
• Opening Day – March 28 
• Minor League Season – April 2nd Rosters have to be made out 
• Durham Bulls Stadium – great atmosphere, has the look and feel of Major League in Florida 
• Grapefruit League 
• Would a struggling & hungry Tampa Bay Rays fight more to the playoffs – we don’t need 13 straight wins to have a good season 
• Don’t sleep on the Red Sox could squeeze off a playoff position 

 Keep up to date with Mat’s tweets on X.com @Mat_Germain_

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing the knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch his commentary & advice on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.

Mat Germain @Mat_Germain_ & Mark talk about the first days of MLB Spring Training.

• Spring Training weather – Canada or Florida
• Can’t take Spring Training seriously just ask Nolan Ryan
• Mat highlights Trevor Martin's pitching performance for the Rays, and his potential for the future.
• Battery sparks - pairing pitchers & catchers and the role of catchers like Rob Brantley in mentoring young pitchers.
• Mat shares his background, starting with blogging about the Blue Jays and later focusing on the Rays due to an opportunity and his appreciation for their approach for their game.
• MLB's prospect rankings for the Rays  
• Top 100 prospects – 4 Rays
  •  #4 Junior Caminero – SS/3B
  •  #20 Carson Williams – SS (what about Walls)
  •  #55 Curtis Mead 3B/2B
  •  #58 Xavier Isaac – 1B
  •  What about - Austin Schendon
• Kudos to owner Stu Sternberg and the impact of Erik Neander's leadership.
• Mat praises Neander for his targeted approach to acquisitions and player development.
• They briefly discuss the MLB's prospect rankings for the Rays, mentioning players like Junior Caminero, Carson Williams, Curtis Meade, and Xavier Isaac.
• Mat discusses the importance of monitoring player health and performance, particularly Blake Snell and Michael Montgomery.
• The hosts speculate on the Rays' financial flexibility and potential roster moves, especially regarding top prospects like Junior Caminero.
• They mention an exhibition game between the Rays and the Red Sox in the Dominican Republic on March 9th.
• Mat discusses the emotional and physical toll on young athletes like Wander Franco, emphasizing the need for support and guidance.
• They criticize the quality of MLB uniforms, suggesting that improvements should be made.
• Mark and Mat highlight the Rays' success in developing front office personnel, contrasting it with other teams' experiences.
• They express excitement for the upcoming season and encourage fans to support the Rays.
• Uniforms - Will a new MLB Commissioner bring a fresh perspective on marketing 
• Dominican Republic Spring Training game Boston Red Sox v Tampa Bay Rays
• What will happen to the Wander Franco millions. Spend it on Junior Caminero? 
• X-Rays – Jake Cronenworth with the Padres, Mike Brosseau with the Royals and Matt Quartraro, Joey Wendle and gloveless love, Willie Adames in Milwaukee. Could Blake Snell come back with a 1-year contract with the Rays
• Tampa Bay Rays Front Office & Coaching Migrations subject for a future episode. 
• Theo Epstein and the Red Sox
• Erik Neander & Andy Friedman building a successful team withray Stu Sternberg
• Competitive nature of hungry Tampa Bay Rays players this Spring Training 
• 100 Game Winner this year?

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch find more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify

⚾ Playoff Pulse

• Mat disappointment with the Brewers’ and Blue Jays’ postseason struggles.
• Super teams,  like the Dodgers —super teams kill competition and fan excitement.

💰 Money, Mets & Moves

• Met’s payroll vs. performance and how poor pitching investments hurt them.
• Pete Alonso’s opt-out and Scott Boras’ pursuit of a 7-year deal — unrealistic? 
• Expect major roster reshuffling post–World Series 

🧢 The Manager Carousel

• A wave of managerial exits: Brandon Hyde, Bud Black, Davey Martinez, Bob Melvin, Ron Washington, Bruce Bochy, Mike Shildt, and more.
• Mark wonders: do managers have agents like players do?
• Mat recalls the Joe Maddon-to-Cubs controversy — proof that manager moves can get messy.
• Managers’ roles have shifted: more front-office control, less autonomy. Mat cites examples with the Yankees and Rays.

👥 What Teams Want Now

• Teams hire managers who “fit the mold” of ownership — compliant with analytics and front-office influence.
• Copycat hiring trends: clubs poach bench coaches from recently successful teams.
• Discussion of potential candidates & the shrinking number of independent skippers.

🧠 The Grind & Mental Toll

• Mark and Mat reflect on the stress of modern managing.
• Shildt’s comments about burnout and even gambling-related fan threats spark concern.
• Mark cites the case of Benjamin "Parlay" Patz, convicted for violent threats to Rays players — highlighting gambling’s dark influence.
• Mat draws parallels to systemic issues and argues gambling is eroding sports integrity and player safety.

🗣️ Manager movements

• Veteran managers like Buck Showalter and Joe Maddon may avoid returning to today’s analytics-driven climate.
• Mat suggests many could find peace and purpose in advisory or AA roles rather than MLB’s constant chaos.
• “Only one team wins each year,” Mat says — the rest face pressure, burnout, and endless turnover.

🔥 Key Topics

• Ban Sports Gambling Ads: restrictions similar to cigarette and alcohol ads, calling gambling a public health threat that harms families and communities.
• Fan’s toxic behavior—especially online—erodes sportsmanship. They suggest clear codes of conduct and real consequences for violators.
• Mental Health & Social Media: rising anxiety to impulsive behavior and online aggression.
• Integrity of the Game: risks of gambling-related corruption, from pressure on officials to potential hacking threats in AI-driven officiating systems.
• Postseason Highlights:
  Mariners, Brewers, Blue Jays, and ex-Rays performances dominate the October chatter—with nods to Randy Arozarena, Blake Snell, and others.
• Savannah Bananas Spotlight:
  Jesse Cole’s baseball-as-entertainment empire—now valued around $15 million and expanding to 45 states and MLB stadiums.
  Brett Phillips would be a perfect Banana.
• Neander’s Presser: Mat reexamines Erik Neander’s end-of-season remarks, reading signals about roster needs, hopes for moreoffensive firepower and new coaching energy while speculating on Evan Longoria’s potential return in a team role.

Find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark @  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, @ iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
Special Thanks to XTaKe-R-U-X

• Perry Barber a 40 year path as a leading woman umpire in baseball and an icon to young women aspiring to play and officiate the game
•  Jeopardy championship and baseball trivia launched Perry into a love of baseball
•  $660 game show winnings,  NY city sublet, Bon Ami cleaner, Rice-A-Roni + beer & skittles
•  She was the intro musical act for Springsteen
•  Perry's mom opened the door by suggesting the idea of umpiring
•  'dem Mets - a loveable history
•  American Girls Baseball Classic a mix of AAGPBL legends, contemporary icons and new young girl and women players
•  Baseball for All - Justine Siegal - broadening young women's opportunities in the game
•  International Women's Baseball Center IWBC
•  Baseball Rule #1
•  It helps to have a semi-eidetic memory
•  Perry's sister joins her in Daytona Beach at the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School
•  The Atlantic League and Joe Klein
•  Perry has her nephew join her in umpiring a game
•  Umpires should move to reconcile - being authoritative without being arrogant
•  Tampa Tarpons & Clearwater Threshers Umpire story
•  First Rule of Umpire School
•  American Girls Baseball Classic in Sarasota
•  Moving to the future of MLB women umpires - watch Jen Pawol
•  Women umps who have paved the way Bernice Guerra, Christine Wren, Pam Postema Theresa Fairlady, Shana Kook

 Thanks to Perry Barber for sharing her stories and passion paving the trail for girls and women in the sport of baseball.  Perry can be found on Twitter at https://twitter.com/perrybarber

Learn more about the IWBC at https://bit.ly/49Lr4dN International Womens Baseball Center – celebrating 10 years
https://www.iwbc.org/ Zoom call:  - Feb 22nd 6 pm
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwufumspzMiGtwXT0QFeEnjPQx_71pcNInM#/registration

Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify

• Pitchers and Catchers Report - Aaron Boone – Having Sand kicked in the Face 
• Mark Corbett & Mat Germain discuss spring training, free agents & team expectations.
• Mat analyzes the pitching staffs of various teams, highlighting potential ace pitchers like Cole Ragans and Tarik Skubal.
•  Impact of pitchers like George Kirby and Logan Gilbert for the Seattle Mariners.
• Issues with team owners, focusing on the Oakland A's & their potential move to Las Vegas.
• David Rubenstein's purchase of the Baltimore Orioles & the need for more accountability among team owners.
• Commissioner News:
• Upcoming departure of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and speculates on potential replacements, suggesting Kim Ng or Theo Epstein as strong candidates.
• Mat reviews a list of free agents, Brandon Belt, Tommy Pham, Adam Duvall, Eddie Rosario, and Matt Chapman, discussing their potential impact on teams.
• Whit Merrifield's decision to limit himself to second base – Players need to be versatile.
• Mark & Mat discuss why players need to be fluid in different roles. – Mookie Betts & Dodgers example
• Scott Boras impact on the game and team budgets. 
• Boras represents and negotiates for 4 top Free Agents (FA) that have not signed. BBlake Snell's pitching style different than Pedro Martinez or Greg Maddux 
•  potential impact on a team, and his contract negotiations.
• Finding Free Agent landing spots like Cody Bellinger and impact on teams like the Royals, Giants & Cubs.
•   Injury issues affecting teams like the Orioles and how it could impact their roster moves.
•   Toronto Blue Jays arbitration process & its back-handed offer impact with Vlad Guerrero Jr.
•   Spring Training players’ performances will make an impact on team decisions and player careers.
•   Growth of Women’s roles in MLB 
  •  Kim Ng, former Marlins GM, could be the next MLB commissioners
  • Jenny Cavner first woman to become primary play-by-play announcer 

Correction: Blake Snell was not offered an insulting $50,000 bump from the Rays after winning the Cy Young award. He was offered $15,000.
 We must ask “Cy Young just another piece of metal?”
 https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/blake-snell-says-its-disappointing-the-rays-only-gave-him-small-raise-after-cy-young-win/ 

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch find more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify

• Day 1 of Dodgers Arizona Spring Training
• Players have reported early
• DodgerFest – Shohei Ohtani – World Media will surround him
• Ohtani much like Taylor Swift or Beatles
• Did Blue Jays benefit from early speculation on Ohtani flying to Toronto
• Shohei – once in a lifetime player, understands the difference between Angels & Dodgers fandom
• Yamamoto –  workload change from pitching once a week in Japan to once every 5 days in the MLB.
• Yamamoto’s No Hitter in Japan
• Tyler Glasnow – Tim and Tyler wee on a Pittsburg winter caravan 
• Tyler a Dodgers hometown boy 
• Pitching Challenges – Clayton Kershaw, Bobby Miller, 
  Emmet Sheehan, Michael Grove, Gavin Stone & Christian Zazueta 
• Dodgers cooled off when Diamondbacks warmed up
• Walker Buehler - Dodgers will they slow play him
• Post Season – The impact of a bye and simulated games
• Clayton Kershaw – what will his future hold as Kershaw signs with the Dodgers
• Dustin May back after 2nd surgery
• Blake Treinen – First healthy off season    
• Tony Goslin will be out this year due to Tommy Johns
• Dodger Announcer legacy
  • Red Barber – Oh Doctor!
  • Vin Scully – “2 outs, 2 on and it’s a 2, 2 count – Deuces wild” 
  • Red Barber hired a 22-year old Vin Scully 
  • Vins’ first game - Maryland and BU football game on a Freezing cold game day. Vin called this game from the roof of Fenway Park
  • Tim’s announcing outside of baseball including hockey, 4 Olympics, ski-jumping, women’s aerials, track
  • Most difficult 90 minutes of Tim’s career - 2004 Athens Greece – with limited knowledge, Tim was given 10 minutes notice that he would be calling his first soccer game. 
  • Reynaldo story
• Tim alternates between Radio and TV Analyst gigs & works with Orel Hershiser & Rick Monday
• Monday is one of the most prepared analyst in the game 
• Fernando Valenzuela – prankster and funny guy in the broadcasting inner circle including Hershiser, Monday, José Mota, Pepe Yñiguez 
• Tim preparing for the 2024 Dodger’s Spring Training season?
• JIC (Just In Case) players from Dodger’s minor Leagues in Spring Training
• In Spring Training Dodger’s play a different team every day. It takes more work to prepare for each team & game
• Covid Curveball – still available on Amazon 
• 2024 Dodgers division – Diamondbacks, Giants, Padres & Rockies where will they all fit in.
• Special Thanks to Tim Neverett, Dodgers Announcer,  Author of "Covid Curveball" Tim can be found @TimNeverett on Twitter and you can hear him call play by play on  Los Angeles Dodgers Play-By-Play Radio & TV
•  Covid Curveball" can be found on Amazon at " https://www.amazon.com/COVID-Curveball-Angeles-Dodgers-Championship/dp/1637581432 
•  BaseballBiz On Deck on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple & Google podcasts 
•  You can reach Mark @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter
•  Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

• From Little League in Albany CA to World Class baseball player and now also a firefighter in Oakland CA
• Tamara Holmes has led the way for many young women to see a path to the great game of Women's baseball.
• Tamara was on the 2015 USA Women's Baseball team that brought back the Gold from the Pan-Am games. 
• Barnstorming with Coors Colorado Silver Bullets, All-Women Professional Baseball team -
• Getting Cut from the team in High School
• Tamara’s record-breaking in-park Home Run / Grand Slam with the Bullets
• Winning the Gold at the 2015 Pan-Am games in Canada
• Tamara at the All Women’s Baseball Classic (AWBC) in Sarasota (AGB & AAGPBL)
• Tamara shares a humble brag at 50 with the AWBC players
• Business owner at Crossfit
• Women’s National Team manager Veronica Alvarez with Oakland A’s
• Tamara integrating all of her experience and strengths make her a better firefighter and well-rounded person
• Great childhood growing up next to a park helped create Tamara’s athleticism and strength
• "Who runs into a burning building?" 
  Experiences that led Tamara to becoming a firefighter
• Massachusetts Mad Dogs
• Playing golf with a John Daly swing & a 5-year old mentality – not a game of brawn
• Jennifer Ring book
• David Krone – coach and mentor – drafting experience
• Breaking out the old bats for the wood bat league - Louisville Slugger Hillerich & Bradsby, Babe Ruth's Old bat
• Raising children do you encourage sports and how do your kids respond
• Sports and socialization – building friendships from childhood that last
• Encouraging children to play sports
• Sprint cycles with the kids
• What’s next in 2024 for Tamara Holmes
• 30th Anniversary of the Silver Bullets
• 20th Anniversary of the Women’s National team with USA baseball
• Thunder Bay Canada – USA to defend their Gold Medal
• It’s been a great journey with family and friends, Veronica Alvarez, Malaika Underwood, Alexa Oglesby and many more
• Just keep grinding 
• Mentorship and giving back
• What can we do to continue to develop Women’s Baseball
• Where do you go without a league
• Thunder Bay Canada  - World Cup getting ready for 2024

Keep up with Tamara for the latest on Women's Baseball at: https://www.facebook.com/t24onfya

USA Womens Baseball Team:
https://www.usabaseball.com/team-usa/womens-national-team 

Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify
Please like, subscribe and remark. Let us know your thoughts about the show.
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

• Dangerous Dodgers – just another house of Cards like Mets early 2023 or a force to be reckoned with
• Shohei Ohtani – 2-way player – 2 Tommy John’s – 10-year contract – how will he compare to Aaron Judge results with the Yankees
• Ohtani Confidence – compared to Tiger Woods
• RaysUp – “St. Pete Rays” – and the new “Trop” in St. Petersburg not in Tampa with Bucs & Lightning
• Will Rays fans return with the new stadium design, surrounded by night life and appeal to youth
• 2024 Rays changes
• Evan Longoria, Kevin Kiermaier decisions
• Every other front office would Love to have the Ray’s front office/analytics & Neander
• The Rays team refuses to tank
• 99 games won season and Rays fans still disappointed after 13 game winning streak
• Dodgers spent $200 million more than the Tampa Bay Rays and won 1 more game in the 2023 season
• Luke Raley v Pallacios
• Rays fans need a World Series Championship title to satisfy Tampa Bay fans  
• Fans of the past look back to Carl Crawford, Ben Zobrist, David Price  & What If’s
• Charlie Morton (Ground Chuck) & d’Arnaud loss made a difference in success of team
• The gain of Ryan Pepiot definitely outweighs the loss of Tyler Glasnow. Tyler may have difficulty with change-up
• Rays Pitching potential rotation looking good with 4 strong pitchers Jeffrey Springs returns with Shane Baz, Zach Eflin and the new addition of Ryan Pepiot
• Drew Rasmussen is a special talent who may pitch less innings 
• Look for a stronger 2024 for Taj Bradley. Taj is not afraid to pitch inside
• Mark’s fascination with Pete Fairbanks as he leaps at Rays Fan Fest
• Addition of strong bat with Johnny DeLuca will compensate for loss of Manuel Margot & Luke Raley
• Alex Verdugo challenging team mate similar to Wander Franco for team spirit
• Mat wants better Rays Catching – let’s bring in a mature catcher again – one that will win the World Series a Jonah Heim or better yet – William Contreras
• William Contreras, catcher from the Milwaukee Brewers could be the missing element that could bring the Rays to a World Series championship
• Contreras would be a daring move that would elevate the 2024 
• Mat Germain’s proposed 2024 lineup
• Rays Shortstops? – Junior Caminero, Carson Williams, 
• Taylor Walls, shortstop – Hip issue that pulled his defensive ability down
• 2024 Rays fans should feel great about the roster changes 
• Keep up to date with Mat’s tweets on X.com @Mat_Germain_

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing the knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch his wit and wisdom on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz & at http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, and Spotify

Rays,RaysUp,TylerGlasnow,Periot,Margot,TajBradley,Verdugo, Dodgers,Ohtani,Yankees,JuniorCaminero CarsonWilliams, KevinCash ,Arozarena ,Eflin, RyanPepiot,ShaneBaz,Pallacios,Jonathan HeIm, WilliamContreras, BaseballBiz

Thanksgiving Day Parade with Tommy & Jimmy
Icons of the game get their just due as Brandon  & Mark award the 5th annual Goofy Gobbler awards.
Baseball and Sports Idols beware
History of the Goofy Gobbler @SportsBlitzPod
2 ZZ Top Sharp Dressed Men bring the Awards

Grandpa Politics - Colin Cowherd (Casual Fan)
o Cowherd felt the Angels could get “five first-round picks, your best
prospect, your third-best prospect and two solid starters.”
o “3 best prospects, three No. 1 picks. Would you move him?” That was
suitable for McIntyre. And as he began to explain that he would take that deal,
Cowherd got a notice.
o “It says here you can’t trade draft picks,” Cowherd said.
o To be fair to him, he did say after he is a casual baseball fan

Druncle Award- The Herd: with Colin Cowherd
o Bears are out of the running?

You Brought Them to Dinner? Award  - Travis Kelce / Taylor Swift
o An unexpected guest brought to the dinner I don’t need to see her after every catch Travis Kelce has
o I love love, but I don’t care who you’re with
o Rays should provide Travis Kelce Sky Box to increase attendance

All American - Matthew Perry
o Best known for Chandler from Friends
o Invested in the Field of Dreams site to help them
build youth fields by the movie site in the corn field
o Battled addiction and transformed his home into a rehab facility many years ago

Dry Turkey Award - Tampa Bay Rays
o Christmas Vacation - Steaming Dry Bird
o Face Plant in the Playoffs
o 33 inning scoreless streak - 2nd longest in post-season history
o "UnCool" New Stadium built in the Tropicana Parking Lot
o Northern transplants to Florida already have a team

Deflated Souffle Dessert Award - Yankees or Mets
o Airy Dessert falls with a bit of disturbance
o Yankees expectatins abysmal season
o Aaron Judge injury halted his season & drew energy away
o Met's payroll compared to results
o What can a $343,000,000 payroll buy, Mr. Cohen?

Turkey of the year - The Oakland?  A’s
o Disrespect your fans
o Trade top players
o Reverse Boycott
o Golden Knights comparisons
o Tropicana Casino their new home?
o Sorry Fans, You don't own the team
o Welfare for Owners - they are not being good stewards
o Comparison to Rays - Erik Neander, Chaim Bloom & Kim Ng
o David Knight story - give them the keys to the car

Brandon Noe & Mark wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving

Special Thanks to Brandon Noe @SportsBlitzPod for bringing us the 2023 Goofy Gobbler Awards
Discover more on BaseballBiz is at www.baseballbizondeck.com & on iheartradio, Apple & Google podcasts
You can reach Mark @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward" 

Erin Carlson spins Baseball Women stories from the movie of "A League of Their Own". How Penny Marshall earned the respect of the AAGPBL, Stories of the All-American Players

• Tomboy & Director Penny Marshall moves from dancer to performing arts to Laverne & Shirley
• Transition from Laverne to director
• From BIG to Baseball 
• Tom Hanks interprets Penny’s Bronx to the cast
• Baseball Drill for 6 weeks with coaches in LA
• Actresses who brought Athletic Talent to the field – Rosie O’Donnel, Lori Petty & Freddie Simpson
• All The Way Mae - Madonna could not hit, throw but was trainable per Joe Russo
• Debra Winger, originally cast as Dottie, leaves the team with $3 million
• Enter Geena Davis – untapped athletic ability & a steely game face
• 14:4 – Loop?
• Lori Petty & Kit brings it to the field but was concerned when Winger left
• Lori Petty & Geena Davis chemistry was strong on
• AAGPBL story is resurrected through the son of Helen Callaghan Candaele , the Ted Williams of Baseball
• Cooperstown 1988 - The players were suspicious of what others may do with their story
• Penny Marshall was kicked out of a AAGPBL banquet
• Fortuitous Steakhouse dinner with AAGPBL players, Fort Wayne Daisies, Faye Dancer & Pepper Paire Davis
• Mandel & Ganz – 2 great writers selected for the film
• Giant Rolodex, Birthday parties with Carrie Fisher and “Bobby D” De Niro 
• Marge & Helen – sisters from Vancouver leave the factories behind in 1944 and joined the Minneapolis Millerettes, later with the Daisies– template for Dottie and Kit
• Helen was the “Ted Williams of Women’s Baseball”  Marge had to struggle to keep up with Helen
• Kelly Candaele’s documentary on mother Helen & Aunt Marge
• Penny Marshall & David Anspaugh 
• Casting, location selection & costume design put together by David Anspaugh
• Anspaugh, Hoosiers director, had a different sense of funny 
• Studio replaces Anspaugh – heartbroken he had been a fan of the Fort Worth Daisies as a young man.
• Jimmie Foxx – Lois Youngens & other AAGPBL players had a different view of him than Tom Hanks portrayal of Jimmie Doogan.
• Marshall honored AAGPBL wishes to stop a Doogan & Dottie intimacy scene
• Geena Davis leveling the playing field with Institute on Gender Media https://seejane.org/ 
• Davis found her athletic muscle playing Dottie
• “A Little League of Their Own”
• Penny Marshall - plan to develop a biopic on Effa Manley
• Health issues kept Penny from doing more
• Whatever happened to the “Pitch” series
• Who would you cast today in A League of Their Own today
• Gal Gadot as Dottie – the new Geena Davis
• Taylor Swift as Kit or Dottie – Travis Kelcie as an extra

Erin Carlson’s book – No Crying in Baseball click here can be found on Amazon 

American Women’s Baseball Classic – members of the original AAGPBL teams will be there along with 60 of the top female baseball players in the world.

Find BaseballBiz on www.baseballbizondeck.com & on iheartradio, Apple & Google podcasts
@TheBaseballBiz on Twitter 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward" 

• 2 Wild Card Teams, Rangers & Diamondbacks, in World Series
• Recalling childhood of sneaking in a transistor radio into the classroom to listen to the game
• Robin throws his hat into the ring for RedSox GM
• Teams that will not build their payroll including Miami – Kim Ng & Derek Jeter departures
• Could Kim Ng displace Brian Cashman at the Yankees
• Baseball grind taking its toll on Max Scherzer
• Do Bye teams lose some momentum?
• Young guys that figure it out are coming up in the World Series, Brandon Pfaadt
• Diamondbacks & Rangers pitchers
• When and who you put on the mound
• Analytics can only carry a team so far
• Kirby ready to come out after 6 innings
• Robin Fuson's Spitball
• Learning how to let hitters get themselves out 
• Movement, Location & Variety – each pitch should have 2 different things
• Greg Maddux – the template for pitching
• Throwing hard & avoiding snap back to avoid injuries
• Rays a farm team for the rest of the league
• The eyes of Nate Eovaldi & Pete Fairbanks
• Rehabbing Matt Young, Jim Corsi, Guillermo Willie Hernandez in Oakland
• Getting a pitcher’s mindset ready and facing the fear of injury
• Joe McIlvaine, Scout & later GM, gave Robin an objective view on his pitching with tape on his sleeve 
• Watching Tanyon Sturtze develop with a “I will fight you every step of the way attitude”
• World Series projections from beginning of regular season
• National Media did not see the Diamondbacks coming. – just ask Torey Lovullo
• Motivation between Rangers & Astros after Hit By Pitch with Anoldis Garcia
• Was the hit intentional – What would Dusty say – with “money on the table”
• Pitcher sometimes have to brush back and/or hit a player to send a message
• Robin hits Brooks Jacoby and gets $200 league fine as benches empty 
• Chattanooga fans passed the hat & pay for Robin’s fine
• Anoldis Garcia - would never see Nolan Ryan or Tom Seaver flip a bat
• Should we let baseball players have a scrum like hockey players 
•  Mexican League, Dominican Republic, Venezuelan & Caracas Winter League 
• Caribbean World Series – MLB players were there for their countryman, Dave Concepcion, Tony Pena, Howard Johnson
• World Baseball Classic – Juan Soto, Shohei Ohtani, Mike Trout
• Pitch Clock – baseball was not meant to be a game to be rushed. The joy of taking a moment to relish each play.
• Double plays – Ground balls & Charlie Morton 
• Off-speed sliders are a wonderful thing
• Manager moves – Dusty Baker, Bob Melvin & more. Will we see Joe Maddon or Buck Showalter pop up
• MLB Winter Meetings – informal conversations & making deals. Meeting friends like Tommy Lasorda, Chito Rodriguez
• Decision time - work for free as an intern or become a judge
•  United Baseball draft – Another league like LIV is for golf – “Money Talks”
•   Tommy Lasorda story 
• Lovin the 7 game ALCS & NLCS Series
• More tales from Robin on Twitter @slider_sinker

 All-American Women’s Baseball Tournament link

 Discover more on BaseballBiz is at www.baseballbizondeck.com & on iheartradio, Apple & Google podcasts
You can reach Mark @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward" 

Sue (Parsons) Zipay of Rockford Peaches & Lois Youngens – Fort Wayne Daisies & South Bend Blue Sox share their stories from the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

• The “League of their Own based on the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League
• 25% Hollywood Hyperbole
• Risqué "League of Their Own"
• Jimmy Foxx, managed the Fort Wayne Daisies in 1952, never missed a game, never drank on the bus, always tipped his hat, a true gentleman 
• No Crying in Baseball
• Right Field or Catching – Smarter than the Boys
• 110 games a season – sometimes 7 days a week with a couple of double headers
• AAGPBL pitchers often pitched 9 innings a game and sometimes pitched 2 days back to back
• Sue talks about pitching and 2nd base and how AAGPBL was like a family
• Fans – Daisy Fan Club – provided a picnic for players once a year
• After the game the long ride home & then rise early the next morning for practice
• Young, Healthy & Loved the Game
• Long 1 piece dress uniform made it difficult to catch grounder
• Strawberries from June to Thanksgiving – sliding in feet first
• Madonna slides into first with her Material Girl’s bosom first 
• Fort Wayne Daisies tryouts in Spring Training & $20 check
• Senior Prom, Graduation & became a Fort Wayne Daisy all in 1 week
• AAGPBL Scouts & Tryouts
• Serendipity with a visit to a cousin in Fort Wayne
• Dating Farmer Boy fans & have a good cookout
• Dottie Greene former player becomes a scout & chaperone
• Chaperones found host families for lodging at private homes
• Rivalry continues between Lois & Sue
• Shu-Shu Senaida Wirth – Tampa Ybor native with the South Bend Blue Sox
• Canada, Cuba & Japan have professional women’s baseball teams
  • 1948 AAGPBL Spring Training in Cuba
  • Dodgers – dem bums had to fend for themselves in Cuba
  • 4 or 5 Cuban women came on board with the AAGPBL
  • Isabel Alvarez & Mickey Perez pitchers from Cuba
• Jimmie Foxx’s daughter was a Bat Girl for the Fort Wayne 
• Lois synergy with Jean Faut the G.O.A.T. had great control most of the time
• Lois traded to South Bend
• Baseball math – field dimensions & ball measurements
• Faut had a good sequence of pitches that gave her the perfect game
• The Weavers - Jean & Jo were 2 of the best batters in the League 
• Life after the League – other sports the players performed - Professional bowlers &  tennis players
• , Sue now owns & runs Englewood Tennis Club
• “League of Their Own” Penny Marshall & Sue’s knee injury
• Canada is number 1 in Girl’s / Women’s Baseball
• Why is it that there has not been a Professional Women’s Baseball League
• More than half of the USA Team Championship members will be at the tournament.
• Women's Baseball can begin with a new league 
• Building a new “League of Their Own” now in Sarasota

All-American Women's Baseball Tournament tickets - https://bit.ly/45Cbnmx

BaseballBiz On Deck on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify & Google & www.BaseballBizOnDeck.com
Please like, subscribe and remark. Let us know your thoughts about the show.
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Mat & Mark look at the PostSeason to see who is advancing. Did the byes make teams rusty,  Carlos Correa's Journey,Women in Sports, the AWB & All-American Girls Professional Baseball League

• Wild Card – all 4-game series completed in 2 games
• The Orioles, Dodgers & Atlanta Braves – these 3 teams with byes were defeated in their first divisional series. Only Astros won their first game
• Diamondbacks handled Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw, in 1 inning this ace gave up 6 hits, 1 walk, 4 Extra Base Hits & 6 Runs
• Dodgers now have lost first 2 games of the series as the competition will continue at the Diamondbacks home
• Team issues with Roster depth 
• D-backs - forgotten in the west, very strong outfield
• Phillies are a tough team – Braves will be missing Charlie Morton
• Similarities between D-backs & Rangers. 
• Baseball is a long series game to see the true talent of the team
• Need less games in regular season -  MLB should expand teams in postseason games
• Minnesota Carlos Correa versus Astros - who would you pull for
• Carlos long journey from leaving Twins, signing with Mets & Giants, Padres were interested and then Carlos returns to the Twins. 
• Pablo Lopez trade to Twins is making a critical difference
• Lou Schiff questions postseason value of Arraez when considering the Lopez trade
• Ridiculous nature of Tampa Bay Rays postseason strategies, 2 innings Pete Fairbanks & sitting Josh Lowe
• Yankees in the past would burn through relievers
• Brandon Hyde & Torey Lovullo our choices for Manager of the Year
• Lou Piniella – Winning is everything
• Postseason does not mean a vacation not a time to relax and awaiting “participation trophies”
• Drawing a player performance competitive line in the sand for the team roster
• PostSeason Announcing – it’s disrespectful to the game with national broadcasters who don’t know the teams or the facts
• Mark gets out of postseason funk working with the AAGPBL
• Celebrating “A League of Their Own” Baseball Classic with the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League tournament in Sarasota
• Canadian Women Baseball has been growing in popularity
• In Western Province of Nova Scotia & the popularity of women’s baseball and soccer continue to grow
• Opportunity to play both softball & baseball in mixed leagues has made for a better athlete
• Movement to make women’s professional leagues supported like men’s league
• Women are fighting hard for equal pay for their work & revenue that their sport is generating
• Martine Sinclair’s impact on soccer revenue
• Multi-purpose stadium should be the wave of including multiple men’s & women’s sports
• Mat to the rescue – what will Rays be doing in the offseason
• Would Shohei Ohtani take a short-term deal with the Tampa Bay Rays to rebuild his value as arm heals
• Optimism with Arizona Fall League ,Perth Heat in the ABL & Dominican Republic Winter League
• Mat is getting ready to reshape the Rays roster

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing the knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show.
Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_   
Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
Just remember to subscribe, follow and rate the show. Thank you.
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,

Breakfast with 2 friends from Brooklyn, Joe Torre & Sandy Koufax, they unlocked what was different in the game today – That’s the story

• Positive Vibe w/Rays new owners , Cosgrove, Zalupski & Babby 
• No rule for “Caring about what you buy”
• Too much inventory - 165 games
• Build love in the game w/ Little League
• Empty seats in playoff games
• The Pitch Clock the most significant change in the game
• Bananas have exposed a central problem  – Fans Feel Alienated
• A $4 million dollar solution for the Cubs to bring kids to the games
• The dying generation of fervent fans needs to be replenished
• Peko Hosoi  Co-founder of MIT Analytics
• “Beat the Bot” finding a new way to engage young fans 
• Cape Cod League w/ Bette the Dog and Analytics
• Baseball & Nickelodeon broadcast model
• Jane’s grandma supported her love of the game 
• Never question anyone’s fandom, it is not logical
• A Sammy Esposito baseball glove gift from Grandma from Saks Fifth Avenue
• Finding Sammy Esposito 
• Baseball Gloves & an Easter Egg Hunt
• Rob Manfred cannot be blamed for many of the challenges today
• Adding more franchises will dilute the talent pool
• Health of the pitchers & their arms, but also to the health of the game.”
• Clayton Kershaw, Dave Roberts and a perfect game
• CTE’s – Dave Duerson 
• Safety of playing Baseball v Football
• We need someone with vision & passion to lead MLB
• Damage to Pitching Arms may start in Little League
• MLB report on shoulder and elbow injuries
• $1 billion dollars spent last year on elbow and shoulder injuries
• MLB has set a limit on how many days & times &months that kids can be scouted in high school and in college.
• Young ballplayers should play multiple sports
• 16 year olds attempting to throw 95 miles
• Jeff Dugas and internal brace surgery
• Planning your pitchers for each of the week 
• Mat  enjoys “the crafty people that have six, seven pitches”
• Keith Meister advises “Go Play Catch” for pitchers' health
• Comparing the newest Yankee Stadium to PETCO & PNC Park
• Fundamentals of the game have evolved into an offensive game
• Bring back the Skills competition 
• Upcoming CBA & Rob Manfred’s announcement on a lockout
• Jane’s father an entertainment lawyer worked w/people who hated one another &was able to still negotiate an agreement between the 2 parties
• Economist, Michael Halpert, came up with a fairly traditional cap, kind of, agreement way to do it, to split the money
• Luxury Tax money – not being used as intended -  grievances pending from 2018 to 19 - Why players don't trust the owners 
• Penalties for not spending the luxury could include          
  • sing all your draft choices
  • reduce 40 man roster to 35
  • Team could be relegated to AAA
• Mat proposes EFL model from England soccer could be applied to MLB
• Which MLB players will be involved in the next CBA negotiations
• Why is MLB salary lower than NBA & NHL?
• “you can't believe what your eyes tell you. You know, your eyes are wrong.”
• 50 years of experience is worth something
• Ron Washington the “Minister of Particulars”
• Science is suspect everywhere except in Analytics
• Peko – baseball is the canary in the coal mine
• Domain knowledge is often not valued
• The funeral of an aunt autograph request
• Bette the Dog

Find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark @  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, @ iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
Special Thanks to XTaKe-R-U-X

If the season ended today . . . and it did

• Fan Exhaustion 
• Marlins did not return to NY 
• Gabe Kaplan – too rough for San Francisco Giants  - perfect fit for the Angels
• Steve Cohen, Mets, says goodbye to Buck Showalter
• Dusty Baker was able to meld a fractured Astros team
• Tony Francona strength - listens & cares for his players
• Big Papi meets Tony Francona
• Miguel Cabrera retirement – would Miggy have continued his career in Miami sans Loria
• Joey Votto ejection statement
• World Series walk begins with Wild Card best 2 out of 3
• 3 game competition gives a better sense of a teams’ measure
• Mat would like a postseason without byes for any teams 
• Tampa Bay Rays, Never know what you are going to have at the end of the series
• Rays will face weaker pitching with Rangers & Orioles
• Yandy Diaz wins batting average title
• No local Bally Sports in postseason
• Difficulty with national broadcasters doing such a poor job on the Rays – John Smoltz
• MLB beats their chest on increased viewership, however continue blackouts
• MLB building revenue base through Repetition, Frequency, Gambling
• Entertainment shows for Baseball in 7th inning stretch?
• Tyler Glasnow & Taylor Swift arm in arm promo for the Rays?
• Cardinals, Adam Wainwright concerts
• Saint of Second Chances – Mike Veeck – Disco Demo in Chicago & fireworks in the Trop
• PostSeason Rays, Tapia, Aranda, Basabe & Junior Caminero
• Rays Roster Luke Raley & Jose Siri may return.  Who will leave
• Junior Caminero AA rookie with veteran performance 
• Basabe will probably not make it to postseason
• Mat measures the impact of not facing Blue Jays, righties Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios & Chris Bassitt 
• Junior Caminero will bring a lot to the plate facing Rangers lefties
• Kevin Cash & Wild Card roster
• Marlins – how will they fare against the Phillies
• Lou Schiff’s @BaseballandLaw, Marlins team is building a lot of experience
• Kudos to Kim Ng for her constructive calls for the Marlins
• Mat & Mark face off on National League champion choices Atlanta Braves or Milwaukee Brewers
• 3 PM First Pitch starts to Wild Card games 
• MLB should consider NFL model of broadcasting most games simultaneously? 
• How many viewers does MLB lose while fans are at work during broadcast?
• Mark reminiscences about days of old with newspaper box scores & radio as the only source to track the game
• Mat likes Balanced schedule but needs consideration of extending playoffs & possibly cutting regular season by 3 games. Also scheduling should consider varying local weather impact throughout the season.
• Mat’s proposed New MLB format would include:
• MLB with 32 teams & 5 game playoff & cut regular season to 159 teams
• What does a 32-team format look like
• Create 4 regional divisions to 8 teams per region
• Set number of teams to 2 top per region that enter into the playoffs
• Junior Caminero from AA skips AAA leaps to Major League Tampa Bay Rays
• Caminero is mature & methodical with a veteran attitude
• Rays Bullpen pitching plan, Taj Bradley – a strategy reflects Dodger method with Julio Urias
• Taj is a cool & fierce competitor

  Thanks to Mat Germain. Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_   Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
  BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,

• Roller Coaster Road of a ride for the Blue Jays this season
• Wild Card in reach
• Toronto took 2 of 3 against Tampa Bay Rays in St. Pete
• Alek Manoah – what gives – shut down for the year with arm injury
• Manoah and minor-league drama – arrogance & confidence
• Rays & Jays 3 game review – tied with 5 wins each for the season
• New Format – Divisional Rivals face one another only 13 games a year
• Enjoy facing all 29 other teams each year
• Red Sox & Yankees rivalry – sitting at positions 4 & 5 in the AL East
• George Springer – in-park home run with 2 men on base
• Springer’s defense in Right Field has been effective and defeats ageism naysayers
• How do Blue Jay fans like Kevin Kiermaier & his card “theft” with Alejandro Kirk
• Brett bought into Kiermaier early when he saw him jump about 8 feet up by the outfield wall to catch an out
• Blue Haired Old Ladies & their Kiermaier fantasy
• Bo Bichette & Vladimer Guerrero Junior
• Brandon Belt
• Yankees will have to eat some Cash(man) until they can release some of the older players with large contracts
• What will 2024 look like for the Yanks
• Baltimore is not going away – can’t wait for Jackson Holliday to come up
• Aaron Boone Ejection – is this his last season
• Orioles future is bright
• Brett Gard on The Cardy Show talks baseball & hockey 

Special Thanks to Brett Gard on the Cardy Show
 You can listen to Brent at https://thecardyshow.buzzsprout.com/1992683
BaseballBiz can be found at www.baseballbizondeck.com or on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify podcasts
Mark can be reached by DM on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz

For information on the Tampa Baseball museum visit https://www.tampabaseballmuseum.org/

For more information on Mental Health you may reach out to the National Alliance of Mental 

• MLB Rundown 
• Long stretch of games for O’s – facing Astros, Red Sox, Nationals & Guardians
• AL West strength who will prevail into Wild Card spot – Astros, Mariners & Rangers 
• NL East – Atlanta Braves rule across entire AL
• Compare Braves & Brewers  pretty evenly matched in starting pitching 
• BaseballBiz visit to Camden Yards – Avid & loud fans with a Sold Out crowd of 43,000 plus fans
• Mat’s visit to Camden Yards, sat in the vanishing left field seats w/Blue Jays fans
• Finding moments & milestones with Yandy Diaz
• Select a Rays jersey with player longevity with the Rays - Isaac Paredes 
• Yandy & Isaak quietly build a great body of baseball work
• Game 2 – Zach Eflin was on fire against the Orioles Eflin, the most important & steady confident player of the Rays. Cy Young award talk
• Game 3 with Orioles – Tyler’s pitching was off and Rays lost
• Grayson Rodriguez - pitched a career-high 8 scoreless innings on 7 strikeouts & 5 hits (O's Game Notes) ‘he fanned Curtis Mead on a 100.1 mph fastball in the 2nd inning, the 2nd fastest strikeout pitch by an O’s starter in the Statcast era …His 117 strikeouts this season are the 10th-most by an O’s rookie at 23 years old
• No Yankees & Red Sox this postseason 
• Grayson Rodriguez & Shane McClanahan comparisons on style and health
• Brandon Lowe – (O's Game Notes) slugged his 21st home run of the season in the first inning; marked the 105th homer of his career, surpassing Carl Crawford for sole possession of 6thplace on the Rays all-time home run list…Also marked his 202nd career extra-base hit, tying him w/Fred McGriff for eighth-most in team history
• Game 4 – 11 inning loss for the Rays 
•  Why did Kevin Cash use Pete Fairbanks for 2 innings 
• Rays face Angels next
• Shohei Ohtani 
• Ray Bourque & the Boston Bruins path could that be the same for Mike Trout
• Angels need an Alex Anthopoulos style GM to rebuild their organization – perhaps Chaim Bloom
• Pirates could be a model for a new Angels path
• Will Rays keep a .600 record for the remaining season?
• Teams with a Bye may go cold with time off at the beginning of postseason
• The Stadium of the Future – Virtual Ballpark – with live - on-field avatars
• AppleTV & MLB –  a camera shot from the seats with the Canadian broadcast 
• Rays’ Tristan Gray (O's Game Notes) Gray made his 1st MLB start, 1st career hit, and launched his first career home run in the 8th inning

Thanks to Mat Germain. Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_   Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter & https://www.baseballbizondeck.com

Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter  X @TheBaseballBiz
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Nick Murawski of Good Guys Talk Back, GGTB takes a good look at the 
Chicago White Sox' tough Season & 2024 South Side expectations

• Off-Season Camelback Kool-Aid optimism - Different Management, Different Coaches, (Different Results?)
• Chicago White Sox – Opening Day lineup almost identical to current lineup, Luis Robert Jr, Tim Anderson, Andrew Benintendi, Eloy Jimenez, Yoan Moncado, Andrew Vaughn, Yasmani Grandal, Oscar Solas, Lenyn Sosa
• Luis Robert Jr is staying healthy and delivering great performances 
• Teams fight for good health – Aaron Judge w Yankees ,  Mike Trout w Angels
• ‘Good Enough’ Jerry Reinsdorf 
• Ticket Holders question whether to buy 2024 season tickets . 
• Corner Store, Mom & Pop shop mentality in the Front Office is disappointing
• Do White Sox have the right ingredients to bake a great cake?
• At 87 years of age it may be difficult to be open to new ideas. 
• New GM, Chris Getz lacks credentials & experience to be a GM in Majors
• Getz reaching out to other organizations for secrets of success
• Successor for the White Sox & Chicago Bulls 87-year-old owner, Jerry Reinsdorf?
• Heirs could potentially Keep the Bulls & Sell the White Sox
• First time manager, Pedro Grifol has been experiencing difficulty
• 20/20 hindsight on 2023 manager options: Bruce Bochy, Miguel Cairo, Tony La Russa, A. J. Pierzynski, Ozzie Guillén
• Bill Parcells managing philosophy should apply to White Sox manager – “If they want you to cook the dinner, at least they ought to let you shop for some of the groceries.”
• Getz instrumental in bringing Grifol to White Sox. Both had worked with Kansas City Royals
• New White Sox Consultant, Tony La Russa August meeting
• This White Sox team will NOT perform for Pedro Grifol 
• Where will Lucas Giolito be once his Free Agency begins
• Future potential from Astros’ Kendall Graveman & Lenyn Sosa – 2nd Baseman of the future
• Will White Sox be competitive in 2024
• Multi-generational fans look beyond the bad years
• Good Guys Talk Back podcast hosts, Nick & Pat Hester are also live each week on their GGTB YouTube channel 

You can also find Nick on Twitter, x.com @Nick_GGTB

BaseballBiz can be found at www.baseballbizondeck.com or on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify & Google podcasts & on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz

 Special Thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward" 

Mat Germain visits BaseballBiz On Deck to look at the Tampa Bay Rays as they enter the last 24 games of the 2023 season.

• Waivers – Angels – Guardians results 
• Rays faced former Rays pitcher Matt Moore
• Miami Marlins – Thanks to Lou Schiff @BaseballandLaw
• Losing series to Cleveland Guardians – Bad Aura?
• 24 games left are some players hiding injuries
• Taylor Walls & Kevin Kiermaier comparisons – 
• Some sloppiness in recent defense - Is Taylor missing confidence -1.4 defensive rating & 8 errors
• Osleivis Basabe is a better shortstop than Taylor
• Shortstop glut – Walls comparing himself to Wander Franco?
• Heart & Hustle & Confidence equation that Taylor needs to achieve
• Rays need to go back to building a competitive environment
• Quick at Bats hurting Rays?
• Rays top hitters, Yandy Diaz, Jose Siri, & Isaak Paredes, benched during the Red Sox game
• Speedy Vidal Brujan got tagged at third
• Rays Fun & Frustrating, Fun & Frustrating
• It’s baseball – Yankees swept Astros in Houston, A’s wins series over Angels 
• Could Yankees win 22 of 25 remaining games to remain relevant – Not Likely
• The A’s have a better future than the Angels – Will Ohtani and Trout stick around
• Angels dealt away 6 of their top 10 prospects – looks like a lean future 
• Yankees & Angels both are burdened by injuries and top salaries to Judge, Cole, Ohtani & Trout
• Stubborn ownership & weak scouting making bad decisions for both Yankees & Angels
• Perry Minasian, GM for the Angels has relatively no say with budget & players
• What does it take to change Owners minds to build and keep a better team in Anaheim
• Yankees’ Aaron Boone always apologizing and making excuses 
• Yankees Front Office has been lazy in Analytics & Development
• Promote Cashman to President to stop him as GM & keeping dinosaurs around Judge
• Could David Stearns be the new Yankees GM – who would he select as team manager
• CB Bucknor & Angel Hernandez – MLB need a retirement age for umps - Umpires should be anonymous 
• Tommy La Sorda & Video Replay
• Rays Opening Day roster compared to today’s lineup – pitching has taken a hard hit but Rays have done a great job rebuilding rotation
• Will we see Colby White, Curtis Mead, Junior Caminero & Austin Shenton come up in September
• Rays Minor League Teams have a chance to be in the Minor League Series. Durham Bulls, Montgomery Biscuits & Charleston River Dogs – post season may find some Rays minor league players in Perth, Australia
• Phenoms Wander Franco & Julio Urias probably out. How can league use these as learning moments for their players
• Need Mentoring system for new players to keep them on the right path

Special Thanks to Mat Germain. Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_   Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
  BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com
 
Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
Thanks to Tampa Baseball Museum for their continuous support.
 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

• Who Will be in the playoffs
• Yankees have a hard climb
• Wander Franco – the 5’8’ Elephant in the room – game is taking off and then
• Day Off of rest and then pulled from the dugout – Many YouTubers who rush to judgement on Wander Franco
• What would the Rays look like without Wander Franco, how will it impact the team
• Could work visa be rejected
• Tyler Glasnow returns
• Aaron Civale – Mat with the 5 start leniency – Mark is more critical           
• 1st 2 Guardians that faced Civale hit a bunt – 2 pitches, 2 bunts put a man on second
• Kyle Manzardo traded for Civale
• Rays Fan pain  - lose 3/5s of your elite players & losing Wander Franco
• Osleivis Basabe – solid at all positions in the infield. Currently, playing Short Stop
• Vidal Brujan may stay in minors 
• Either Carson Williams could or Junior Caminero could be 3rd base
• Lopez or Bradley could be another regular starter for the Rays
• Rays have strong depth – looks much like Orioles
• Manuel Margot – injured with floating objects around. 
• Brandon Lowe is looking at his best this past week
• Luke Raley & Josh Lowe will be getting more playing time as Margot is out
• Rays are hitting strong with Hits, RBI’s, Runs, HR’s
• Junior Caminero hit 3 Home Runs in 1 game. One that cleared the scoreboard. 479 feet.
• Junior is currently with Montgomery Biscuits
• German Mets fan, Spring Training, Tim Tivo and Pete Alonso
• Mat speaks to the value of watching young players come up through the minors. Enjoy 
• Mat shares his story on Hockey fans who could see junior teams to see players who are up and coming like Sidney Crosby with the Oceanic Rimouski 
• Rays abundance of Short Stops with Rays and recent drafts
• Tyler Walls are his days with the Rays numbered with Carson Williams coming up through the minor leagues. 
• Is there a singular leader in the Rays dugout – would Alonso be a good addition as a leader?
• Wander Franco – what would happen if he would no longer be a Ray
• Would Ohtani come to Tampa Bay
• Wander’s contract did not do him any service with the limited amount that he makes over several years
• Perhaps the Wander money could go to keep Glasnow
• Will Rays hit 100 wins this year? Will they win the division?

AL East 

Special Thanks to Mat Germain. Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_   Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
  BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com
 
Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
Thanks to Tampa Baseball Museum for their continuous support.
 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Author John Vampatella & Mark talk about John's book the 53rd Man, Fighting to Make It in the NFL – book by John Vampatella. All of this, & Ohtani, The Tampa Bay Rays, the Orioles & the Angels

Part 1 of this interview is at https://bit.ly/3s5UdQh  

The 53rd Man is the last man to make the NFL team’s roster. These players fight to stay in the game and on the team. John’s book takes the reader through injuries, cuts and trades.

• 120 plus players in the minor leagues for each team in football the cutoff is 53
• The 53rd Man, Fighting to Make It in the NFL – book by John Vampatella
• UConn, Wide Receiver, Jeremy Davis, NFL 5 to 6 year career, Special Teams Ace
• NFL does not have a minor league like MLB
• Fringe Players, Bubble Guys, may make the team but may be on the practice squad.
• Davis became a Special Teams Ace
• 53rd Men stories include players including, Austin Carr with the Patriots who got cut by Belichick and then moved to the Saints and played with Drew Brees 
• Faith & Resiliency
• You can’t make the club from the tub – 53rd man may get the same level of care as any other player but they could easily be replaced. Many of these players will continue to play hurt to main
• Jeremy Davis with the Giants – the fear of being cut because your hurt
•  Faith for Matthew Slater, son of NFL Hall of Famer Jackie Slater, gave him strength during difficult times
• Trust that God has a Plan for them and it gives them peace while others who are stressed out
• Walk with God – it has been the anchor to get some players through their pro career
• John’s inspired by 13-year old daughter’s faith & her walk with God while facing hardship 
• Orioles, Blue Jays & Tampa Bay Rays 3 AL East teams potentially in the 6 spots for MLB Playoff Brackets
• Rays Injuries  - Glasnow, McClanahan, Springer, Rasmussen
• What happened to the Rays in August and will they be able to catch the Orioles
• Shohei Ohtani – the singular GOAT of the century – Arte Moreno
• Angels have Ohtani & Mike Trout and are currently under .500

John Vampatella’s book, 53rd Man, Fighting to Make it in the NFL
you can order now at
https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781538181508/53rd-Man-Fighting-to-Make-It-in-the-NFL
Use Code: RLFANDF30  to get 30% off

BaseballBiz On Deck on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify & Google & www.BaseballBizOnDeck.com
Please like, subscribe and remark. Let us know your thoughts about the show.
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

John Vampatella, Author of the 53rd Man & The Forgotten Game 

New York Yankees & Boston Red Sox fandom

2004 Game 7 – State Police brought on campus due to Yankee / Red Sox sports tension between fans

The Mets & Padres have spent a fortune but no results

Steve Cohen – spends the money, buys the talent including Verlander, Scherzer

Now it’s time to “Cut Bait” at the Mets

Cohen’s letter to NY Mets ticket holders

Red Sox strong farm system – Fans need to have “patience with the process” 

Dodgers have a core of good players from their system

Verdugo – what’s going on? why wasn’t he traded?

Ceddanne Rafaela now in the Red Sox minor leagues has a strong future with Boston

What would Bill Belichick do with a tardy player

John says we should look that Red Sox may trade Verdugo in the offseason

The Iconic Fenway Park a historic tour

Boston Fans should have early season games played in other cities’ domed stadiums?

Hold a few Major League regular season games in Minor League parks

Aunt Irene – the most dedicated Yankees fan is ready for a total house cleaning of the Yankees

Giancarlo Stanton – where is the hustle to home? 

Reese McGuire – bad baserunning costs the Red Sox a game

Aaron Judge contract – was it worth it                          

Joel Youngblood – traded mid-day playing for the Mets. He was pulled from the game and then played that evening for the Montreal Expos

Orioles Announcer – Kevin Brown suspended – What was the front office thinking?

The Voices of Baseball: The Game's Greatest Broadcasters Reflect on America's Pastime – Kirk McKnight

Part 2  - The Conversation Continues with a focus on the 53rd Man, Fighting to Make It in the NFL   https://bit.ly/3YuQWWM

John Vampatella’s book, 53rd Man, Fighting to Make it in the NFL
you can order now at
https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781538181508/53rd-Man-Fighting-to-Make-It-in-the-NFL Use Code: RLFANDF30  to get 30% off

BaseballBiz On Deck on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify & Google & www.BaseballBizOnDeck.com
Please like, subscribe and remark. Let us know your thoughts about the show.
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

• Beginnings with a love of the game 
• From minor leagues to prosecuting attorney to judge
• Early on started with JuCo ball, made All-State, then Drafted by Cleveland
• Attitude to fight off bullies transferred into his career as a prosecuting attorney – Bugliosi facing off Manson
• Pitcher confidence – always felt like he was going to win every game
• Baseball gave Robin a chance to work with a diverse group of people
• Smart pitchers learn how to let hitters strike themselves out
• Mixing up style of pitches, speed and placement plus the Mythical Spitball
• Wade Boggs – saw the rotation of the ball in different quadrants during the pitch
• Boston Hitting coach did not like Robin talking to the hitters
• Wade Boggs, a good friend - induction to Tampa Bay Rays HOF
• Tommy Lasorda story – Robin & Tommy a flight to the Dominican Republic.
• “Dr” Tommy Lasorda tells a tall Mental Healing tale
• Speaking fluent Spanish was needed when Robin worked as an Oakland A’s coach
• Player to Coach – Leaving the Player mindset behind – time to put the hammer down
• Oakland gave Robin flexibility as Spring Training coach to pursue law degree
•  Sandy Alderson & Tony La Russa both were lawyers who both had been with the Oakland Athletics 
• Differences between Manager & Coaches relationships with players
• Pitching against guys like Orel Hershiser, Pedro Guerrero. Tony Peña
• Veteran Dominican Republic (D.R.) & Venezuelan Players work to nurture and aid the younger players who come to the US to play ball by helping them to bridge the cultural & language gaps
• ‘You have to swing to get off the island”
• Robin's D.R. Winter Ball, infield included Alfredo Griffin at 2nd base, and Raphael Ramirez from the Braves at shortstop, Gerald Perry at 1st base from the Braves, Manny Castillo from the Mariners at 3rd base. John Lickert with the Red Sox was the catcher. Robin faced batters - Orel Hershiser, Pedro Guerrero & pitched to Tony Peña in the All-Star Game. 
• Players in the D.R. treated young players as family and often left equipment behind for the young players
• Florida a cradle for baseball talent
• Northside Little League
• Tampa Smokers
• MLB Draft & Trades – Daniel Robertson moved from Mets to Miami
• Cleveland Farm Director Bob Quinn did not like Robin and was ready to stall his career.
• Cleveland Indians lost Robin to the Red Sox due to a rule violation 
• Wade Boggs & Robin Fuson
• If Maddux pitched in today’s game he might win 30 games
• Mike Hargrove – the “human rain delay” 
• Mexico - Threw out Eddie Miller at 1st base after 17 throw-overs 
• Mixing the pitches, speed & sequences to fool the batters
• Bat Flipping - how would Don Drysdale or Bob Gibson have responded 
• Injuries & rapid pace of today’s game
• Robin would throw as many as 150 pitches a game & would average 7 to 8 innings
• Lance McCullers Jr, Astros pitcher & the McCullers Christmas Tree lots 
• Kevin Williams & Robin “Ali” boxing prank
• Oakland A’s 2x Fuson – Grady Fuson, Scouting Director of the Athletics 

Robin's baseball stories, wit  and wisdom can be found on Twitter @Slider_Sinker

Discover more on BaseballBiz is at www.baseballbizondeck.com & on iheartradio, Apple & Google podcasts
You can reach Mark @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward" 

 Nate Andrews, Baltimore Orioles analyst from Full Count Chaos visits and brings a look from Birdland to BaseballBiz On Deck 

• Orioles Rebuild – Mike Elias ‘Rebuild is Over’ 
• Leading American League with an over .600 winning record this year 
• Yankees & Boston Red Sox tied for last in AL East 
• The AL East is the Beast 
• Brandon Hyde – Hats Off to Hyde – looks to be the AL Manager of the Year 
• Strong Orioles Roster, Rutschman, Mateo, Mountcastle, Henderson, Hays, Santander, Frasier, O’Hearn, Urias, etc 
• O’s IL - Mullins & Hicks 
• Aaron Hicks – Yankees tribute upon return to Yankee stadium & Yankee fans fill stadium with boos 
• Young superstars ready to step up when injuries arise in the lineup 
• Ryan O’Hearn stepped up – clutch player - Winning is contagious with the Orioles 
• Trade murmuring – Angelos not likely to trade for Ohtani 
• Orioles bullpen has blown many saves 
• Marcus Stroman or Blake Snell potential trades – why are the Padres doing so poorly, are they ready to trade 
• Dean Kremer awesome pitching 
• Shintaro Fujinami traded from the Oakland A’s still trying to find the strike zone 
• What does trade deadline, August 1st, look like for Baltimore 
• Blood, Sweat, Tears and Money What about fickle fans until the losses start to pile up                                                                                                                                        
• Baltimore loud at the Trop in St. Pete 
• October brings a “different beast” to baseball 
• Pete Fairbanks – Tampa Bay Rays – Closer Assassin – hard to face 
• Camden Yards – when will a lease be signed – the Orioles aren’t going anywhere –  ask John Angelos 

Special Thanks to Nate Andrews for sharing knowledge on The Baltimore Orioles
 You can find Nate at https://www.fullcountchaos.com or on Twitter @FullCountChaos

Discover more on BaseballBiz is at www.baseballbizondeck.com also on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple & Google podcasts
 
You can reach Mark @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward" 

Mat and analyst Mark dive into a big week for Tampa Bay baseball fans as the Rays transition to new ownership and the future of the franchise begins to take shape.

• Pumpkin spice & postseason baseball:
• Reflecting on Stu Sternberg’s era: 
  • Dropping the “Devil” & building consistent winning seasons. 
  • Iconic Rays moments: Evan Longoria’s homer, Brosseau vs. Chapman, Arozarena’s postseason magic. 
  • Sternberg’s legacy— building success on a budget & supports local causes
• Meet the new leadership: 
  • Spotlight on Ken Babby, incoming Rays CEO with a track record in minor league rebranding (Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, Akron RubberDucks).
  • Babby’s community-driven philosophy: family fun, affordable entertainment, and building strong local ties.Success stories: attendance boosts, stadium upgrades, and stronger fan connections.
• What’s next for the Rays: 
  • Potential rebranding and stadium renovations?
  • Immediate challenges facing new ownership, including stadium location decisions. 
  • How Babby’s experience and family sports background may help reshape the franchise & increase attendance
• Stadium talk with fresh perspective: 
  • Mark shares insights from meeting Janet Marie Smith (Orioles, Dodgers, Camden Yards architect) and her Yale architecture students studying stadium design along the Gulf Coast 
  • Review of past Rays stadium proposals—Suncoast Dome, Al Lang concepts, Gas Plant, Ybor visions, GASWORX,and more. 
  • Community-first design trends: mixed-use neighborhoods, retail, walkable spaces, and unique local character.
• Looking ahead: 
  • We’re feeling positive vibes from the Rays’ new leadership 
  • Looking forward to see the imprint they may make on the Rays team culture and stadium development.
  • Why patience and optimism are key as ownership takes its first steps

Key Quote:

"Families and corporate groups come to the games for the memories, not just for the wins and losses. It's about affordable family fun, community engagement, and creating moments that last." – Fast Forward Sports Group

Listen to the full conversation for in-depth analysis, stories from Tampa baseball history, and why the Rays’ future looks both challenging and full of promise.

 You can find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark at  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
Special Thanks to Scott Holmes for the music Stomps & Claps

Mat Germain returns to BaseballBiz On Deck to give a dive into the Rays as they enter the final months of the season 

• Mat working has been working on Rescues in Nova Scotia & Halifax
• Fred McGriff’s & Scott Rolen trek to the Hall of Fame – a respected player
• Pete Rose should be allowed in with a disclaimer
• “American Gladiators” – steroids & muscle v marketing – shades of Mark McGwire
• HOF made it work for Roberto Malomar – museum should chronicle history with achievements & failings
• Tampa Bay Rays have “Blown Up” – What Gives?
• Roberto Malomar spit and Hall of Fame
• The Writers have a fine line on who they can select for the Hall of Fame
• Celebrate Pete Rose inducted into the Hall of Fame with 
• 5 starter pitchers are solid but Rays could add 1 more 
• Expectations for return of Andrew Kittredge
• Perhaps Padres – Josh Hader & Seth Lugo
• Lackadaisical lineup 
• Randyland & the Benching of Franco – what gives?
• Leadership is needed with the Rays – remember Charlie Morton
• Avengers Assemble - Rays Assemble - find some unity
• Lance Lynn is a good example of leadership and never say die attitude
• Rays prospects, players, potential trades & churn
• Jonathan Aranda, Vidal Brujan, Osleivis Basabe
• Is Shohei Ohtani an option – what would Arte Moreno want
• Mark is unhappy to see Pete Fairbanks pitch 3 games straight
• Andrew Kittredge & Colby White could be the answer
• Trop sells out – Mariners & Orioles games
• At 2022 it looked like losing was acceptable to Kevin Cash
• Plea to Kevin Cash – put your instinct before the analytics
• Looking for some Grit & Fire from the Rays
• Mat & Mark are adjusting their Win Loss projections for the Rays 
• RaysUp

Special Thanks to Mat Germain. Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_   Mark can be found on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
  BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com
 
Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz

Thanks to Tampa Baseball Museum for their continuous support.
  
 Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Author, Rick Vaughn, "100 years of Baseball on St. Petersburg's Waterfront. How the Game Helped Shape a City" discusses Al Lang & the evolution of MLB Spring Training in St. Pete. Rick’s front office career spans the Orioles, Redskins & Vice President of Communications with the Tampa Bay Rays. #RaysUp

• Baltimore, rolling out Camden Yards
•  Rick's book of baseball stories  -  "100 years of Baseball on St. Petersburg's Waterfront. How the Game Helped Shape a City"
• Al moved to St. Petersburg for his health & fell in love with the community
• Brought the best teams to St Petersburg - Boston Braves, New York Yankees, St Louis Cardinals & . . . 
• Keeping it fresh - Boston Braves depart St Pete on Tuesday & Al has a new team, the St. Cardinals in place by Saturday
• Babe Ruth's Train
• Tampa paid Cubs to bring their spring training to the city 
• Al Lang, philanthropy
• The Depression, Spring Training & the impact on St. Pete
• Babe Ruth & St. Pete, a love affair
• Yankees moved team from New Orleans to turn down the Babe’s night life
• All Children’s hospital recipient of Ruth’s generosity
• Minor League Map of Florida - watching up & coming players 
• 1968 - 29 future Hall of Famers in Al Lang Field 
• 90 Tampa natives that have played Major League Baseball
• Seaver & Gooden both playing in Tampa high schools simultaneously
•  minor league players in Tampa - Justin Crawford with the Threshers
• 1960 the death of Al Lang
• Fighting Segregation in Tampa Bay Baseball - Bill White & Dr. Ralph Wimbish, 
• Cardinals brought all players, managers & families under one roof in St. Pete 
• Did Florida lose spring training teams to Arizona due to segregation?
• Al Lang & Rick Vaughn strong champions of the game
• prepping for the launch of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays
• Buck Showalter or Socha could have possibly been the first Rays GM
• Rays original Owner & GM had not worked in baseball
• What makes a great ballpark experience in an outdoor open ballpark
• Rays future stadium should honor the past & deliver a park with modern day amenities
• Build a Rays stadium in Ybor reflecting the history of Ybor & the cigar factories
• Tampa Bay needs a champion for baseball and the Tampa Bay Rays
• Wade Boggs stories at Al Lopez field & Tino Martinez working in cigar factory
• Tampa baseball with the Cubs & Red Sox
• Augustus Busch Jr, owner of St. Louis Cardinals brought Busch Gardens to Tampa

Rick's book on Amazon @
 "100 years of Baseball on St. Petersburg's Waterfront. How the Game Helped Shape a City"
BaseballBiz On Deck on iheartradio, Apple, Spotify & Google & www.BaseballBizOnDeck.com
Please like, subscribe and remark. Let us know your thoughts about the show.
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

MLB Draft, Home Run Derby, All-Star Week & Friday night Pitching – boo's, Manfred, MLBonFox

• MLB Draft more booing for Manfred and Houston Astros
• MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred is ready to continue as commissioner
• Athletic article by Evan Drellich analyzes Manfred’s rehire situation
• Things to like about Rob Manfred include the loss of the shift, ghost runner, larger bases and the pitch clock.  Is baseball better off than before.
• Average ticket holder is now 6 years younger than 2019
• Theo Epstein would be a good one to consider for the commissioner’s office
• AllStar Game introductions - American League Reserves announced by Joe Davis
• Houston Astros – no love from the stands for Kyle Tucker, Yordan Alvarez & Framber Valdez
• Dusty Baker deserves our respect not boo’s
• MLBonFox failed miserably with Tampa Bay Rays – 
• Who are Wander Franco & Shane McClanahan? 
• Their introduction missed during the introduction of the Seattle Mariners, the game was held in Seattle
• Where was Cleveland Guardians, Josh Naylor at the AllStar Game
• Bo Naylor & Josh both hit home runs in the same inning on Friday
• Home Run Derby friends & rivals -Randy Arozarena & Adolis Garcia 
• Cuban outfielder friends Arozarena & Garcia save Gerrit Cole’s first inning.
• Garcia steals Acuña’s home run
• A Tale of 2 Pitchers
• Chicago White Sox Michael Kopech faces a tough first inning giving up a grand slam
• Milwaukee Brewers Corbin Burnes a tale of 2 pitchers – Sweltering heat in Cincinnati with the Reds. Burnes delivers 13 strikeouts in 6 innings

BaseballBiz On Deck on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify & Google & www.BaseballBizOnDeck.com
Please like, subscribe and remark. Let us know your thoughts about the show.
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

BaseballBiz On Deck MLB Midseason rundown with Brandon

• AL East 
  • Rays started season with 13 wins in a row
  • Recently lost 7 games in a row
  • @Mat_Germain_  projections on bumpy tract for the Rays
  • 2 Best teams today in the MLB – Braves & Rays
  • Atlanta Braves had been adopted as the Tampa home team 
  • Braves sell out the Trop and take the first 2 out of 3 in St. Pete
  • Classic match ups – Charlie Morton v Tyler Glasnow, Spencer Strider v Taj Bradly
  • Zach Eflin – Rock of the Rays Rotation
  • LOB
  • Orioles ascend and take 2 of 4 @  at Yankees Stadium
  •  O’s -  Cinderella Run to the AL Championship
  • Yankees GM, Brian Cashman, fires the Yankees hitting coach
  • Blue Jays – Alek Manoah returns
  • Red Sox – only 1 game behind the Yankees
• AL Comedy Central – Brandon breaks it down
  •  Eliminate divisions - advice from Mat
  • Brandon proposes Conference model
  • Guardians, 9th in the AL - leading Central with a .500 percentage
  • Royals – 26 wins & 65 losses – still not the worst team in baseball
• AL West
  • Texas Rangers lead the West with a .571 winning percentage
  • Oakland has a .272 winning percentage 
  • Angels cursed? – great talent – limited results
  • Will Ohtani move 
  • Brodie Brazil speaks the truth about the Oakland A’s & potential move to yet another Tropicana – this one in Vegas- retractable roof on 9 acres?
  • Vegas – Expansion team or buying a Used A’s team from Oakland
• National League - NL East
  • The Atlanta Braves – beating everybody – Acuña – potential MVP
  • Marlins are growing quietly – one of the best teams in baseball today
  • Bucs & Dolphins compared to Marlins & Rays
  • Fenway fans sharing the love with Mark & Karen on the Trop
  • The Phillies
  • Mets are under 500 – 18.5 games behind the Braves
  • Money may buy you love but not necessarily a championship team – Sask teve Cohen
• Al Lopez - managerial tactic for success – playing as a cohesive team
  • Washington Nationals – White Flag – 24.5 games behind the Braves
• NL Central
  • Higher expectations for Brewers 
  • Cincinnati Reds –12 game winning streak
  • Joey Votto Returns
  • Rookie, Elly De La Cruz explodes on the baseball scene. 
  •  In 30 days De La Cruz in the Majors and his hit a cycle and now has stolen 3 bases with a single at bat in 2 pitches
  • Willy May Hayes would be proud of Elly
  • Cubs under 500 but recently beat the Yankees in Yankee stadium
  • Pirates – first crack at the MLB draft selected Paul Skeens. 
• NL West 
  •  Dodgers have won 7 of their last 10 games and now share the number 1 division spot with the Diamondbacks
  • Imminent rebuilds for some teams

Brandon Noe on twitter @SportsBlitzPod,  @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter 

BaseballBiz On Deck on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify & Google & www.BaseballBizOnDeck.com

 Please like, subscribe and remark. Let us know your thoughts about the show.

 Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

• Tommy & Jimmy Mets chant for a better Red Sox season – if only a Mets Miracle could happen now
• Half Way into the season
• Rundown of MLB teams by League & Divisions
• National League
• Atlanta Braves leading the National League East after 81 games
• Marlins will be playing Braves soon
• Reds leading NL Central with Brewers trailing right beneath them
• National League East – Diamondbacks are holding the lead over the Dodgers, Padres, etc
• American League
• Rays lead the American League and all of MLB teams. 5th place Red
• Twins lead the AL Central 
• Royals split a series with the first placed team
• Royals neck and neck with the Rockies
• All-Star Phase 2 – American League & National League Finalists
• AL All Stars will include: Jonah Heim, Yandy Diaz, Marcus Semien, Corey Seager, Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, 
• Home Run Derby – where is Pete Alonso, Salvador Perez & Shohei Ohtani
• 2023 Home Run leaders in MLB
• Home Run early contestants 

  BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com
 
Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz

Thanks to Tampa Baseball Museum for their continuous support.
  
 Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Numbers, numbers, numbers

We don’t need a math major on this show. We will breakdown what’s happening across MLB with a focus on The Reds - Live from the Tampa Baseball Museum

• What’s the math and history of winning & losing streaks
• First baseman, Joey Votto is back with the Reds and he is ready
•  Joey began his career with Reds and brings a history of leadership
•  Joey – the numbers of a champion
• The Reds and Orioles the forgotten teams – National Media steps up & notices
• Cincy Manager David Bell speaks to Votto’s return
• Reds leading the NL Central Division
• Reds game winning streak  – 12 of 12 games 
• Pirates & Cardinals both are suffering in the Win Loss Column
• Votto & Elly De La Cruz
• Matt Johnson article on SportsNaut on Winning Streaks histories
• Cincinnati fans at the Great American ballpark
• Jonathan India is having some fun & the Reds mindset
• Reds Comeback Kids – they have 27 comeback wins this year
• Joey Votto last night – 4 AB, 2 Hits, 2 Runs, 2 Home Runs story was eclipsed by Elly De La Cruz
• Elly De La Cruz hit the cycle, it has been 34 years since Reds had a player hit the cycle 
• Reds are now facing the National League leaders, The Atlanta Braves, tough series ahead
• MLB All-Star game Phase 1 voting results for National & American leagues
• Blue Jays have a strong showing in the Phase 1 results
• This Guy!  Luis Arráez of the Marlins keeps floating around .400 with his batting average keep it up

Special Thanks to the Tampa Baseball Museum for allowing us to record this episode at the Al Lopez House in Ybor. https://www.tampabaseballmuseum.org/ 

Thanks to Scott Holmes for the music – Stomps & Claps

The Honourable Lou Schiff shares his wit & wisdom on the Marlins 2023 rise in the National League. Lou and Mark take a look at Luis Arraez, Bryan De La Cruz & Jorge Soler

• Marlins learning how to win this year
• Marlins new manager, Skip Schumaker is making a difference
• Cy Sandy or Sigh Sandy who will show up at the mound
• Marlins are a sleeper team, surprise team just like the Baltimore Orioles were earlier
• Unexpected downfall of the St. Louis Cardinals
• Glory of the Oakland A’s Vida Blue, Rollie Fingers & Joe Rudy
• Oakland A’s fans that feel betrayed
• Jazz Chisolm what happens when he comes back. Marlins are winning without him
• Luis Arraez - Rises Up
•  At this point Marlins have not missed him
• Yuli Gurriel a leader to the team
• Where do you make space for returning players on the roster
• Corey Kluber example in Boston, Cy Young award winner moved to the bullpen
• Marlins Davis is making a difference
• Soler now 2nd in the league for Home Runs, may climb higher as Pete Alonso is temporarily out due to injury
• Marlins Radio - Kyle Sielaff’s call at the Miami Marlins & Chicago Cubs game – https://twitter.com/MarlinsRadio/status/1667996125108879360?s=20
• Miami fans love the game but are fickle 
• Excitement of the WBC
• South Florida incredible last few months in sports – Owls, Hurricaines, Heat & Panthers
• Northeast does not see Florida as a place for a strong baseball team
• How do you stop the Mets from winning . . . give them a baseball bat Will
• Will Marlins unload Jazz for new prospect
• Oakland A’s have been playing at a 500 level for the last few games
• Sixto Sanchez will he come back this year – the roster is full – no need
• Trades this season Will Marlins unload Jazz and Trevor Story for new prospects
• Oakland A’s have been playing at a 500 level for the last few games
• Mark picks 3 potential Tampa Bay Rays for All-Star game – Randy Arozarena, Shane McClanahan & Yandy Diaz 
• Is Zach Eflin human? – how did he evolve to where he is. Local boy?
• Fans are perking up in Miami & ready to return to see the Marlins
• Lou teaches Baseball Law classes at Mitchell Hamline & the St. Paul Saints
• Discover Lou at @BaseballandLaw
• Sneak Peak of Upcoming @BaseballandLaw stories include: 
  •  Farewell to Babe Ruth
  •  PeeWee baseball and parents lawsuits
  •  Dodgers beat up Chicago Cubs fan lawsuit
  •  Count of 2 balls & 1 strike
• You can find Lou's BaseballandtheLaw book at
  https://cap-press.com/books/isbn/9781611635027/Baseball-and-the-Law

Special Offer on Baseball and the Law book - June Sale!!!!
Use code BBALL2023 at check out & get 1/3 off the list price
Sale ends 7/1
"It's something every baseball/law nerd should own"
@craigcalcaterra

Follow Lou on Twitter @BaseballandLaw for daily insights into the game
 
BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com
Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz

Thanks 

Mat & Mark dig into the Fenway experience and the potential for Boston to come back hard when Adam Duval & Trevor Story return.

• The Fires in Canada and the impact on people
• Rays play in Cold, Wet & Rain at Fenway
• Eflin, Glasnow, McClanahan & Bradley – top tier pitching talent
• Manuel Margot takes a hard hit against the scoreboard
• Rays gel together as players & family & RedSox needs of team meetings
• Trevor Story & Adam Duval will be returning soon & becoming more of a threat in AL East
• Red Sox were 29 – 23 outside of games with the Rays
• Toronto Blue Jays – a hair away from Tanking
• What’s up with Alek Manoah – Not a Roy Halladay, Can Manoah come back strong
• Fenway Fans – need some of their top players back. They  are not happy with Duran and cannot wait for Duval to return.
• Boston Red Sox – Keystone Kops defense gave Yandy Diaz a “little league home run” Everything may change when Trevor Story returns to Shortstop and Kike Hernández
• Ron Washington of the Atlanta Braves has reset the team defensively. Red Sox need that kind of coach
• To build a stronger Red Sox team they need to bring up Marcelo Mayer at Shortstop, Kike in Centerfield, Trevor Story at second base and Devers at third.
• Orioles still need to make investments into pitching
• Reds exciting times ahead with Ely De La Cruz
• The Rays are Marvelous – Rays, Yankees & Orioles are leading both the American and National Leagues
• Rays upcoming schedule & upcoming return of Andrew Kittredge will make the future bright
• Will Quebec get an MLB team? Government is supportive of the idea of attracting an MLB team. But what will Bronfman and ownership group offer to build a stadium.
•  Costs could include other costs of $2.5 billion to make this happen
• Other cities most likely to get a MLB team - Vegas, Utah, Portland, Charlotte or Nashville 
• Nevada government has ended session without a guarantee of financial support for a new stadium. Ownership needs to take on the responsibility of buying and building a stadium
• Rays still have not established their new stadium and location has not been finalized. 
• The Fenway Park experience – reasonable Ball Park Food Prices and Fan passion 
• Bucket List parks – Wrigley Field & Petco
• Rays Minor Leagues – Evan McKendry, Pitcher of the Month
• Vidal Brujan
• Mat & Mark’s projections for Tampa Bay Rays for total season wins for the Rays
• Rays players potential trades to come

Special Thanks to Mat Germain. Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_
  BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com
 
Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz

Thanks to Tampa Baseball Museum for their continuous support.
  
 Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Sports Analyst, Nat Gordon of Boston Sports Gordo, @BOSSportsGordo & Beyond the Monster shares his take on the Red Sox in the AL East, including a look at pitching of what works and what doesn’t. recognizing Jarren Duran and a look at Devers and Bogaerts in San Diego

• Corey Kluber and $10 million later
•  Upcoming rotation moves with Nick Pivetta and Whitlock coming back
• The Red Sox out West – with Padres, Angels & Diamonbacks
• Loss of Rich Hill, Nick Eovaldi, Michael Wacha & Eduardo Rodriguez
• Chris Sale is back, Angry & Grunting – throwing 110 pitches
• Tanner Houck fascinating first time through the lineup. Expectations that he may become an even better starter. 
•  Garrett Whitlock may be back soon
• Beyond the Monster – Nat addresses losing Trevor Story & Adam Duval and the rise of Jarren Duran
• Let’s get Jarren Duran to the All-Star game with Rob Bradford @Bradfo
• Rafael Devers, Xander Bogaerts & Mookie Betts. Should the Red Sox Front Office kept them all.
• Bogaerts was offered a low ball contract, was he worth more? Ask the Padres.
• What is coming up from the Red Sox Farm
•  Brian Mata, Brandon Walter, Chris Murphy, Miguel Bleis, Shane Drohan
• IL: Christian Arroyo, Yoshida, Yu Chang, Justin Turner
• Masataka Yoshida – doesn’t swing & miss, he does it all, can be crazy hot. Had hit 2 HR in 1 inning.
• Yoshida never goes cold at the plate
• Grinding pitchers out – Red Sox are waiting for the right pitch
• What to expect from Angels & Diamondbacks this week.
• MadBum sent up home
• John Smoltz & Corey Kluber
•  Smoltz, Cy Young Award Winner was let go. 
•  How much time will Corey Kluber have without improvement
• Chris Sale, the Ace of old has returned to the mound. How long will it last?
• pitcher injuries due to the demand for High speed and pitch clock
• AL East and a balanced schedule – Red Sox shine above so many others across the other divisions
• Other sports what’s happening with the Celtics – Game 5?

 For the most up to date news on the Red Sox follow Nat Gordon of Boston Sports Gordo, @BOSSportsGordo & Beyond the Monster with Chris Enrique @ChrisHenrique and - Let’s get Jarren Duran to the All-Star game with Rob Bradford @Bradfo

BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com

Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Mat Germain recounts with Mark this past rough week in New York with the Tampa Bay Rays  playing both Yankees & Mets 

• Blame Game – Yankees pelting Randy Arozarena. Aaron Boone old school on playing the game. Boone is he channeling Billy Martin attitude. Boone a man of great character 
• Yankees talent – Harrison Bader brings the Cardinal way to the field. Rizzo & Bader make a good supporting staff with Aaron Judge. What happened to Gleyber Torres? 
• Tampa Bay Rays pitcher, Drew Rasmussen, has been moved to the IL. What will his return look like. What will the Rays rotation look like. 
• 6 man rotation, limited innings, taxi rides with minors pitching, will that mitigate the likelihood of injuries or diminish enthusiasm. 
• Rays’ strategy – Talent trumps Experience 
• Rays’ front office needs to help Kevin Cash with the bullpen 
• Jason Adam looking for the touch and feel needed for better pitching 
• Pete Fairbanks – will he be able to pitch in the cold weather of October 
• Home field advantage would benefit Pete with controlled temperature at the Trop 
• The Rays will be aiming for “elite” when trades begin and will be building a strong rotation for later in the season and playoffs. 
• Mat’s 5 man rotation -  Shane McClanahan, Tyler Glasnow, Zach Eflin, Josh Fleming, Taj Bradley & Yonni Chirinos. Next steps, Rays need to promote some of our AA pitchers to AAA 
• @Mat_Germain_ on Twitter talks about potential of adding Pete Alonso or Freddie Freeman to the Rays roster to anchor the lineup 
• Would Mets, Steve Cohen, let Alonso leave. What’s Pete thinking? 
• What’s next with the Mets? Top talent on short term contracts with mega-stars. 
• Great to watch the Mets pitching this year with Verlander, Kodai Senga, Scherzer. 
• Yankees Slam – Bad behavior in Toronto – gum-throwing Aaron Boone & Domingo German with sticky hands. 
• Sticky Stuff is the MLB equivalent of the NBA traveling call 
• Rays come home this week. Hoping for the return of some good vibes. Tough schedule ahead starting with Brewers, Blue Jays & Dodgers. 
• Mental State of the team – how will they be now. Did they lose some momentum this past week. 
• Kevin Cash trying to get Randy Diaz to smile 
• Looking forward to eX-rays returning to the Trop this week, Mike Brosseau, Ozzie Timmons & Willie Adames 
• Fenway is On Deck 

Special Thanks to Mat Germain. Mat can be found on Twitter @Mat_Germain_
 BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple,Spotify & Google podcasts & @TheBaseballBiz on Twitter 
 
and of course on https://www.baseballbizondeck.com

Please like, follow and comment. Let us know your thoughts about the show. DM Mark on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz
 
Special thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

  🎉 Lou Schiff’s Big News - Lou Schiff welcoming a new family member!Mark & Mat share their excitement and well wishes for the Schiff family.

  📚 Lou’s Book: Hall of Fame Players Who Became Lawyers

Discussion on Lou’s latest book featuring Hall of Famers like Tony La Russa who also pursued law.

Which current MLB players might make good lawyers or judges

• Mat nominates Aaron Judge 🧑‍⚖️ 
• Mark suggests Pete Fairbanks ⚾

  ⚖️ CBA & Player Issues

• Mat breaks down upcoming CBA challenges.
• Salary cap debate vs. overlooked issues affecting 80% of players.
• Why voices like Fairbanks could bring valuable insight.

  🌟 Roberto Clemente Legacy

• Luis Roberto Clemente visits the Tampa Baseball Museum.
• Little Legends 21, a foundation carrying Roberto Clemente’s legacy of giving back to youth and communities.

  🏟️ The Rays & Stadium Questions

• Rays finish their stint at George Steinbrenner Field on a winning note.
• Players loved the natural grass and healthier play vs. Tropicana Field.
• New ownership sparks hope for a fast-track stadium plan—possible sites in Tampa & St. Pete discussed.

  💰 Stu Sternberg’s Rays Era

• From $200M investment to a $1.7B sale—one of MLB’s biggest ROI stories.
• The ups, downs, and legacy of Sternberg’s ownership:
• Built MLB’s most respected front office.
• Five straight playoff appearances.
• Controversial stadium battles, but lasting respect across baseball.
•  Departing with gratitude and surprising fan warmth.
• Stu Sternberg leaves the Rays better than he found them.
• His legacy: a respected front office, consistent playoff contender, and a franchise that grew in stature despite challenges.

⚾ Minor League Affiliates: 

Could Jacksonville become a AAA partner under new ownership?🥧 Montgomery Biscuits Championship:

• Manager Kevin Boles leading his squad in a winner-take-all Southern League title game vs. Birmingham. 
• TJ Nichols starting, bullpen stacked with arms like Austin Vernon & Ty Johnson.
• Will Simpson carrying a hot bat (OPS near 1.700).
• 🌟 Rays Highlights:
  • Brandon Lowe hits HR #31 at age 31.
  • Junior Caminero chasing Carlos Peña’s Rays HR record (44 vs. Peña’s 46) with 5 games left. 
  • Jake Mangum showing Joey Wendle-like versatility and intensity.
  • Shane Baz closes his season strong with 4 no-hit innings.
•  🎯 ABS Debate:
  • Mark values umpire judgment in calling balls & strikes.
  • Mat argues for full adoption of ABS (Automated Ball-Strike system), calling human inconsistency a “career killer.”
• 💪 Leadership & Legacy:
• Yandy Díaz’s impact as a leader, mentor, and professional hitter. 
• What new Rays ownership might do with veterans like Yandy & Brandon Lowe.
• 🏆 Playoff Picture: contenders: Mets, D-backs, Reds battling for Wild Card. 
• Terry Francona’s resilient squad making a push.
• Mark cheering on hometown Reds; Mat pulling for the Brewers, praising their Rays-style blueprint under Matt Arnold.
• 🔮 Mets likely facing coaching/management changes after a late-season collapse. 
• Big offseason decisions for the Rays as ownership era shifts.

 You can find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark at  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
Special Thanks to Scott Holmes for the music Stomps & Claps

Mat Germain, deep dive analyst of the Tampa Bay Rays visits to give us a breakdown of their ongoing success and what we may expect

• Are we there yet – heading to Disney World
•  Steadfast & Disciplined team making excellent baseball decisions. Rays have come together organically as a team
• Yandy Diaz, Wander Franco, Isaac Paredes increased plate discipline
• Josh Lowe & Taylor Walls have increased zone awareness thus escalating the number of pitches from their opponent
• Best year in baseball since building the pyramids
• What if the Rays win only 50% of their remaining games they will be at 92 wins
• Kyle Monzardo, Ruben Cardenas, Vidal Brujan & Curtis Mead can continue to gain experience in AAA
• Yankees series in Tampa – Rays kept their foot on the gas pedal and will change the whole month of May with that series
• Mark had to walk out of the room when Gerrit Cole was pitching
• Rays Tropicana attendance soared during Yankees series
• RandyLand Rays Marketing team steps up
• Yankees dependent on a happy Gerrit Cole & need to build up team with players like Volpe & Cabrera
• Cleavinger out for the season. Keep your eye on up and coming Joe LaSorsa
• Injuries and Tommy John’s how the Rays have dealt with it.
• What to do with Brandon Lowe situation – move up Josh Lowe in the lineup
• AL East is a Beast           
• Divsions are antiquated. Just break it down to 2 Leagues. What happens with the rivalries
• Pat Williams of the Orlando Magic is ready to bring Major League or Baseball to Orlando. Will they have local support? How will that impact the Marlins, the Rays and the TV markets?
• Are most Tampa politicians Yankees fans. St. Pete has the most to offer the Rays and the community
• Could the new Rays “Trop” arena follow the Montreal Olympic Stadium model with a translucent roof? 
• Maybe follow the Rangers with that industrial military hangar look. 
• Projections for the upcoming Baltimore and Yankees road trip.
• Mark’s Pithy Party – jabs MLB Network broadcaster for not knowing how to correctly say Wander (Frahn-co) Franco’s name not to mention calling Shane McClanahan, Shane McClellan. Come on guys, Wake Up. Give a little respect to these players.
• Big Picture for the Rays – 104 wins
• Slow start in Charleston & Bowling Green. Will there be a larger focus on pitching or bats
• Getting ready for the Draft
• Be on the lookout for Chandler Simpson in the Rays future
•  Love letter to the Rays front office:  “Please for the love of Pete, go get major impact pieces please.”
• Minor Leagues are where it is at. Just ask Kevin Kiermaier who climbed up through the minors and then spent 10 years with the Rays

Follow Mat Germain  on Twitter @Mat_Germain_
  BaseballBiz can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify and at https://www.baseballbizondeck.com
For more information on the museum visit https://www.tampabaseballmuseum.org/

For more information on Mental Health you may reach out to the National Alliance of Mental Health (NAMI)

 Preamble: May the Fourth be with you – Tommy & Jimmy discuss moving from Red to White Sox or is that just the wine talking. 

Nick Murawski host of Locked On Sox & Good Guys Talk Back analyzes the recent history of the White Sox and is tracking their current season, now having their first series of the year. 

• White Sox defeat #1 Rays 
• White Sox take series from top AL Central leader, Minnesota Twins 
• Pedro Grifol – is April a true barometer of a team’s potential 
• Lance Lynn was approaching a no-hitter 
• White Sox committed fans staying to the bottom of the 9th in nasty, cold, wet weather get to see an amazing turnaround of the Sox
•  Luis Robert  - lacking hustle or hamstring 
• The Return of Tim Anderson - will he be the spark?
• Weak bullpen is not helping out the starters
• Lance Lynn, pitchers health when do you take the ball, ask Aaron Boone
• Nick gives the details on factors on when to pull the pitcher
• Managers, who did you think would have replace La Russa – Joe Maddon, Renteria, Grifol, Ozzy Guillen?
• Gregory Santos throwing serious 3 digit heats
• Bummer has not delivered as hoped - waiting for Garrett Crochet
• May 3, - Major Roster changes moving 11 players  - what will be the impact 
• Oscar Colas - up and down scuffle
• Where is the front office money being spent on talent on the field
• Will Yasmani Grandal remain
• AL Central not a strong division - how will the Balanced Schedule impact this division

You can find Nick Murawski on most podcast directories on Locked On Sox and also with Pat Hester, Good Guys Talk Back podcasts. You can reach Nick on Twitter @Nick_GGTB

BaseballBiz can be found at www.baseballbizondeck.com or on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify & Google podcasts
Mark can be reached by DM on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz

For information on the Tampa Baseball museum visit https://www.tampabaseballmuseum.org/ 

Special Thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music "Rocking Forward"

Danny Rockett, Avid Cubs fan, analyst, SonRanto show host and musician gives us an update on the Chicago Cubs.

• Cubs Pandemic Cub-mas song "Nobody is coming to Town"
• Divisional Games a Balancing Games act
• New Balanced Schedule lessens Fans chance to face NL Central rivals away
• Ricketts ripping out the guts of the team (i.e. Yu Darvish)
• 2023 Cubs roster reset with Dansby Swanson, Cody Bellinger, Seiya Suzuki, Trey Mancini, Hosmer & Torrens
• Cubs missing something at First Base - need to look to the farm
• AAA opportunities looking at Mat "Mash" Mervis
• Fan favorites, Stroman & Ian Happ
• Fans that pull for the player instead of the "laundry" a result of analytics, gambling and fangraphs?
• Bullpens are fickle
• Drew Smyly - a curveball with results that are not being measured. And yet
• Pitchers' arm health - not overworking can add longevity to the pitcher's career
• Movement in Cubs pitcher rotation - Jameson Taillon, Asaad, Hayden Wesneski, Kyle Hendricks
• NL Central outlook
  • what about those Pirates
  • A lot of .500 teams in Central
  • Cardinals - Best Hitters, 
  • Brewers - Best Pitching, 
  • Cubs - strong workman approach, 
  • Pirates emerging, 
  • Cincinnati - got nothing
• Joe Maddon his legacy & future
• Willson Contreras - had brought a great bat, he fired up the clubhouse & a fan favorite
• Danny Rockett and the Wrigley Field Weather Report
• Sports journalism v Entertainer & Influencer 
• Blending Cub fandom with Rock & Roll
• Bleacher Bum Band 
• RSN - Marquee - "State TV"
• WGN as the launching point for Cubs national appeal with Harry Caray
• Increase in fans using radio as their primary source during Cubs games
• Cubs poet, Sandra Marchetti 
• Rob Manfred Hates Baseball song

Special thanks to Danny Rockett for the use of songs, "Nobody is Coming to Town" & "Rob Manfred Hates Baseball"

A point of gratitude to the Tampa Bay Baseball Museum - for some historical references - www.tampabaseballmuseum.org

Below is more information on Danny Rockett, the Son Ranto show & the Bleacher Bun Band
 
Son Ranto Show on Bleacher Bum Network

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bleacher-bunch-network-a-chicago-cubs-podcast/id1462808218?l=ru?l=ru

Website is http://www.sonranto.com

Bleacher Bum Band https://open.spotify.com/artist/5wBhE7HmZNCiXaKrWq8ju9

BaseballBiz On Deck can be found on iheartradio, Stitcher, Apple, Spotify& Google podcasts
Mark can be reached by DM on Twitter @TheBaseballBiz and on the website: https://www.baseballbizondeck.com/
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