Explore every episode of the podcast Rays Your Voice: A Tampa Bay Rays Podcast

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Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson are joined by Ian Malinowski to react to another tough loss, as the Rays go down 5-4 in game 2 and now trail the Brewers 2-0 in the World Series. The series resumes on Monday at Tropicana Field, but what path remains for the Rays to win their first World Series title? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford is joined by Brett Phillips and Danny Russell to react to the Rays heartbreaking 3-2 loss in Milwaukee. What decisions would Kevin Cash and the Rays players like to have back, and why should fans feel optimistic heading into game 2? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode, Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson analyze the Tampa Bay Rays' recent performance, discuss potential trade strategies, and evaluate player performances and team prospects as the trade deadline approaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson offer an in-depth analysis of the Rays' season, managerial decisions, player performances, and strategic adjustments. With multiple five-game winning streaks already this year, does this team have the pieces to be a contender again in 2026? 00:00 Rays' Winning Streak and Team Dynamics 09:02 Kevin Cash's Strategic Decisions 15:01 The Role of Veterans in a Young Team 20:49 Bullpen Challenges and Player Development 27:10 Closing Thoughts on the Rays' Season So Far 39:25 Griffin Jax: Transitioning Roles and Mental Game 46:05 Impact of New Signings: Nick Martinez and Steven Matz 58:24 Team Performance: Expectations vs. Reality Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode covers the Tampa Bay Rays' recent series against the Yankees, focusing on their innovative small-ball strategy, standout players like Chandler Simpson and Taylor Walls, and managerial decisions by Kevin Cash. The hosts analyze team performance, player development, and upcoming challenges in the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson analyze the early stages of the MLB season, focusing on team performances, player insights, and the return of the Rays to Tropicana Field. They take a look at the playing time break down for the Rays in the early going and how that might change throughout the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Brett Rutherford is joined by Cole Mitchem analyze the Tampa Bay Rays' opening series against the Cardinals, roster strategies, and provide a State of the Farm Sytem after Erik Neander and company have spent the last two years reloading with prospects at all levels of the minor leagues. They discuss key players, new rules like ABS, and the team's future outlook, providing deep insights into the Rays' current state and prospects for 2026. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Season Preview 03:02 Opening Series Analysis 11:58 ABS Challenge System Discussion 21:00 Concerns About Starting Pitchers 24:03 State of the Rays Farm System 58:22 Future Prospects and Player Potential 01:04:36 Brody Hopkins: The Best Prospect in the System 01:08:05 Jacob Melton: Power and Defense in the Outfield 01:14:39 Ty Johnson: An Underrated Pitching Prospect 01:22:28 Future Impact: Prospects to Watch in 2026 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson are joined by Elijah Flewellen this episode to preview the 2026 season. The hosts discuss the latest injuries to Ryan Pepiot, Gavin Lux, and Taylor Walls, and how they impact the shape of the Rays Opening Day Roster. To end the show, Darby and Elijah go head-to-head in a Rays Opening Day-themed trivia contest, before everyone teams up to try and tackle a fan-favorite Rays Sporcle quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson analyze the World Baseball Classic, team USA's performance, and potential Tampa Bay Rays branding updates. They explore team dynamics, roster battles, and exciting uniform rebrand options, providing insights into international baseball and Rays' future plans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rays Your Voice, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson are joined by Ben Whitelaw to discuss the latest developments surrounding the Tampa Bay Rays. They delve into the recent approval to give the Rays state-owned for a new ballpark by the Florida Cabinet, injury updates for players like Taylor Walls, Edwin Uceta, and Chandler Simpson. The conversation shifts into a discussion about fringe players in camp who could make an impact this season, the evolving catching situation, and the potential of pitching prospects. With spring training underway, the hosts emphasize the importance of evaluating player performance and mechanical changes as the Rays prepare for the upcoming season. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:38 Stadium Saga Updates 06:33 Injury News and Bullpen Dynamics 22:30 Fringe Players and Spring Training Insights 26:26 Evaluating Ben Williamson's Role with the Rays 31:28 Ryan Vilade: A Hidden Gem for the Rays 37:11 The Outfield Shuffle: Who Stays and Who Goes? 53:11 Catching Prospects: The Future of Rays' Catching 01:05:52 Assessing Boyle and Seymour's Future Roles 01:10:45 Spring Training Insights and Player Evaluations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the excitement surrounding the start of spring training, focusing on player updates, particularly Junior Caminero's emergence as the face of the franchise. With the World Baseball Classic starting soon, Brett and Darby highlight the Rays' participants and their potential impact in the tournament. The conversation shifts to predictions for the upcoming MLB season with a focus on playing time for Rays players. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent Super Bowl, the transition to baseball season, and the signing of pitcher Nick Martinez. They delve into spring training storylines, including roster projections and the excitement surrounding the upcoming season. The conversation also covers stadium renderings for the new Rays ballpark and the potential impact on the team's future. The hosts emphasize the importance of health and the depth of the outfield and pitching staff as they prepare for the season ahead. 00:00 Introduction and Super Bowl Recap 14:08 Discussion on Nick Martinez Signing and Team Dynamics 19:59 Stadium Renderings and Future Developments 33:05 Chandler Simpson's role 41:53 Evaluating the Outfield Depth 49:07 Catcher Conundrums: The Rays' Dilemma 01:04:35 Spring Training Insights and Expectations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent press conference led by Governor Ron DeSantis regarding the Tampa Bay Rays' stadium plans. They analyze the significance of DeSantis's support, the involvement of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, and the role of Hillsborough College in the project. The conversation also covers the new ownership and the important role of CEO Ken Babby. Brett and Darby also discuss recent trade for Ben Williamson, and how he fits into the Rays lineup. Additionally, they touch on the changes in the Rays' broadcast and viewing options for the upcoming season.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Press Conference 11:48 Ken Babby's Leadership and Community Engagement 17:55 Funding Discussions and Next Steps 30:31 Tampa's Evolving Sports Landscape and Infrastructure 35:32 Trade Analysis: The Rays Acquire Ben Williamson 01:01:21 Rays' Future Strategy and Roster Decisions 01:06:18 Changes in Rays' Broadcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rays Your Voice, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent announcement of a new stadium deal for the Tampa Bay Rays at Hillsborough Community College. The conversation begins with Darby's hopeful reaction to the news, despite the cautious optimism of many fans who have experienced previous disappointments. Also, last week the Rays completed a three-team trade that saw them acquire second baseman Gavin Lux and right-handed pitching prospect Chris Clark, while sending former first round pick Josh Lowe to the Angels. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:09 Initial Reactions to the Stadium Deal 10:02 The New Ownership Group's Approach to Buillding a Ballpark 17:12 Looking Ahead: Financial Considerations 23:16 Cautious Optimism for the Future 43:55 Gavin Lux's Role and Performance 01:00:02 The Impact of the World Baseball Classic 01:09:50 Financial Disparities in MLB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent trades involving Brandon Lowe and Shane Baz. They analyze the players involved, the potential impact on the team's performance in 2026, and the future of the Rays' roster. The conversation also touches on the state of the AL East, the importance of pitching prospects, and the overall direction of the Rays as they head into the new season. 01:24 Brandon Lowe Trade Breakdown 10:51 Lowe's Place in Rays History 17:16 Roster Construction Challenges 30:32 Evaluating the Return for Shane Baz 39:39 Comparing Team Trajectories in the AL East 42:38 The Rays' Long-Term Vision and Roster Decisions 45:50 Ketel Marte Trade Considerations 50:01 Addressing the Second Base Dilemma 55:58 Concerns Over Starting Rotation 59:55 Future Outlook and Team Direction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent signings of Cedric Mullins and Steven Matz, and how they fit in on the Rays roster. They analyze the implications of these moves for the team's roster, focusing on Mullins' potential to provide veteran leadership and stability in the outfield, as well as Matz's versatility as a pitcher. The hosts also discuss the recent Winter Meetings in baseball, highlighting the excitement and rumors surrounding potential trades. Specifically, the Brandon Lowe was rumored to be on the market, and the Rays are reportedly in trade talks with the Diamondbacks about Ketel Marte. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this episode of Rays Your Voice, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the latest offseason moves for the Tampa Bay Rays, including the decision to pick up the options of Brandon Lowe and Taylor Walls, while declining Pete Fairbanks'. The conversation delves into the financial aspects of these decisions, the performance of key players, and the overall strategy for the upcoming season. In this episode, the hosts also begin their 2025 season autopsy, starting with the catchers and infielders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent introductory press conference for the new ownership group of the Tampa Bay Rays. They share their initial reactions, emphasizing the importance of the new ownership's commitment to building a new stadium and improving fan experience. The conversation delves into financial aspects, public-private partnerships, and the future of baseball operations under the new management. The hosts express cautious optimism about the team's direction while acknowledging the challenges ahead, particularly regarding payroll and stadium development. The show concludes with predictions for the postseason and reactions to all the games thus far. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to new ownership and reactions to press conference 05:54 Building a ballpark 14:47 Return to Tropicana Field 20:43 HCC Dale Mabry Campus 38:57 Baseball Operations outlook under new ownership 57:48 Playoff Baseball Insights and Series Predictions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Raise Your Voice, hosts Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the significant changes surrounding the Tampa Bay Rays, including the sale of the team and the legacy of former owner Stuart Sternberg. They explore the implications of new ownership under Patrick Zalupski, expectations for payroll and team strategy, and the future of the Rays, including potential stadium developments and branding refreshes. The conversation reflects on the complexities of ownership in Major League Baseball and the challenges the Rays face moving forward. 00:00 Introduction and Season Reflections 01:27 Ownership Change: The Sale of the Rays 05:18 Stuart Sternberg's Legacy 08:07 Cautious Optimism for New Ownership 14:28 The Future of the Rays: Stadium and Branding 33:59 The Importance of a Rays Hall of Fame 38:54 Ownership Changes and Payroll Expectations 57:46 Future Strategies for the Rays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Carson Williams' Call-Up 03:02 Evaluating Carson Williams' Potential and Expectations 05:53 The Importance of Managing Expectations for Young Players 08:54 Discussion on Ian Seymour's Performance and Future 11:55 The State of the Rays' Pitching Rotation 14:53 Future Prospects and Player Development Strategies 29:09 Pitching Prospects and Future Uncertainties 32:40 The Evolution of Pitching Strategies 35:49 Caminero's Home Run Chase 48:05 Junior Caminero: A Rising Star in Baseball 52:43 Contract Negotiations and Player Extensions 58:57 Identifying Extension Candidates 01:09:59 Future Prospects and Team Strategy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Current State of the Team 02:55 Disappointment and Expectations for the Season 05:51 Prospects and Future Outlook 08:49 Injuries and Roster Management 11:43 Offensive Struggles and Key Players 14:47 Pitching Challenges and Team Strategy 17:54 Bob Seymour's Impact and Future Role 27:20 Evaluating Player Depth and Future Prospects 28:53 Emerging Talents: Tre' Morgan and Carson Williams 30:58 Assessing Team Strategy and Player Utilization 34:22 The Importance of Player Development and Exposure 38:37 Pitching Prospects: Yoniel Curet and Future Options 48:55 Looking Ahead: Impact Players for Next Season 50:46 Injury Concerns and Rotation Dynamics 54:06 Pitching Challenges and Future Strategies 01:00:03 Evaluating Trades and Team Direction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss how the moves at the trade deadline serve as a primer for what's ahead this offseason. 02:50 Looking Ahead to 2026: Future Prospects for the Rays 05:48 2026 Starting Rotation: Who Stays and Who Goes? 11:41 Evaluating the Bullpen: Key Players and Potential Trades 19:39 Analyzing the Catching Situation: Will Anyone Stick? 33:20 Infield Dynamics: The Future of Brandon Lowe and Yandy Diaz 41:05 Is it Time to Reshape the Rays' Outfield? 01:04:27 Final Thoughts and Predictions for the Offseason Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss all the moves the Rays made ahead of Thursday's trade deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the trade that sent catcher Danny Jansen to Milwaukee and the decision to option young right-handed pitcher Taj Bradley. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford, Darby Robinson, and special guest Brian Menendez of DRaysBay and Baseball Prospectus discuss the Rays plans ahead of the July 31 trade deadline. One move has already been made, bringing in Bryan Baker from Baltimore to try and sure up a struggling bullpen, but there could be more incomings and outgoings from that group. Specifically, is now the time when the Rays trade closer Pete Fairbanks? The Rays are poised to trade one of their starting pitchers, who have stayed healthy and all made their starts to this point in the season. Shane McClanahan will rejoin the rotation at some point in the second half, and Joe Boyle has earned an opportunity based on his performance in AAA and in limited big league work this year. Zack Littell and Taj Bradley seem like the most likely options to be moved. Brett, Darby, and Brian discuss which they think will remain on the team, and how that impacts the Rays rotation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the Rays three All-Stars, including Home Run Derby participant and starter at third base, Junior Caminero. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the Rays recent successes, fueled by the best lineup in baseball over the last month. Junior Caminero, Yandy Diaz, Brandon Lowe, and Jonathan Aranda have powered an incredible run since the end of May, one that has left Rays fans dreaming of catching the Yankees in the race for the AL East. Now that the Rays find themselves as one of the frontrunners in the American League, will they go for a big splash at the deadline, make multiple small acquisitions, or is there a shock move in the cards? With news that a group led by Patrick Zalupski is in exclusive negotiations to buy the Tampa Bay Rays for $1.7 billion, Brett and Darby discuss the impact a sale would have on the future of the franchise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent demotion of Chandler Simpson and what it means for his development. The Rays also made a move to acquire catcher Matt Thaiss, designating the struggling Ben Rortvedt for assignment. This move, along with the decision to send Simpson down signal how the Rays front office feels about the team and their chances to compete right now. Brett and Darby also discuss the news that Evan Longoria will be signing a ceremonial one-day contract to officially retire as a Ray next weekend. They share some of their favorite Longo memories and talk about what he represents for the franchise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the recent struggles of Shane Baz and Taj Bradley and what that means for the Rays rotation. Also, what is Christopher Morel's role on this team? Less than a year after the Rays traded All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes to acquire Morel, the young slugger has been reduced to a bench role for most of this season. Brett and Darby discuss his potential paths to more playing time. Ha-Seong Kim is inching closer to his return from shoulder surgery, and could make his Rays debut next month. How will his addition shake up the lineup? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss where the team has fallen short so far this season, and debate if they have the answers in-house to bring them back into contention. While the wins have not come consistently, there are some signs of life in the way this team has hit and played defense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss a frustrating homestead in which the Rays lost three of four series against the Angels, Braves, Red Sox, and Yankees. While they have some work to do after a sluggish start, there's a lot to look forward to this season, including the emergence of players like Jonathan Aranda, Kameron Misner, and Chandler Simpson, with plenty of other young players ready to contribute. And while this episode was recorded during the first round of the NFL Draft and a first round playoff game for the Tampa Bay Lightning, Brett and Darby use this time to share their thoughts on the other teams in the Tampa Bay Area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the first six games of the Rays' 13-game homestand, which saw them lose a series to the Angels before taking the series against the Braves. Brett and Darby talk about Zack Hample's antics, Jonathan Aranda's breakout, Jose Caballero's role in the present and the future, and if Joe Boyle has the goods to crack the starting rotation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson break down what has gone wrong for the Rays during this four-game losing streak, and which slow starters need to turn things around quickly before the Rays dig themselves into too big of a hole. Also, with Richie Palacios and Josh Lowe on the mend from their injuries, what will the Rays do when they need to make a decision on Jake Mangum and Kameron Misner? Is there another player on this team who is in danger of losing their roster spot? Brett also has notes from the start of the Durham Bulls season, where he got to see Chandler Simpson, Carson Williams, Eloy Jimenez, and Joe Boyle up close and personal last week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson break down the Rays' Opening Weekend series victory over the Colorado Rockies, and some important notes they made after getting their first looks at the team in regular season action. Josh Lowe picked up a Grade 2 right oblique strain on Opening Day, and Jake Mangum is the man to replace him on the roster for the time being. Brett and Darby discuss how the Rays will look to make up JLowe's production during his absence. Also, what's the deal with these torpedo bats? To end the show, Brett and Darby talk about baseball's latest craze and the impact that these new bats could have on the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the injury to Shane McClanahan, and the major decision to have Curtis Mead start the season with the big league club and send Eloy Jimenez to AAA Durham. Those two bits of news have a lot of implications for the roster composition heading into the 2025 season. After a disappointing 2024 that saw the team miss the postseason for the first time in six years, can the Rays bounce back in 2025? Brett and Darby make their season predictions, including standout players, team leaders, and ultimately who and what will make or break this year's team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ashley MacLennan and Darby Robinson review Richard Linklater's Everybody Wants Some!!, starring Glenn Powell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the latest in Rays news from Spring Training. There are a couple of roster bottles to keep an eye on, specifically Curtis Mead and Eloy Jimenez. Also, Brett and Darby discuss whether or not Chandler Simpson can force his way onto the Opening Day Roster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the Rays' most-shocking move of the offseason, signing Ha-Seong Kim to a two-year, $29 million deal to play shortstop. It seemed as if the Rays offseason was mostly done and Taylor Walls was set to be the club's shortstop in 2025, but after a larger market failed to develop for Kim, the Rays swooped in and made a deal. The team wasn't done there; they acquired local product Alex Faedo in a trade with Detroit the very next week. Faedo has spent his entire career with the Tigers but was recently DFA. He will fight for a spot in the Rays bullpen but might have an edge coming out of Spring Training given he has no options remaining. To end the show, we discuss some of the Rays prospects that appeared in top 100 rankings in multiple outlets. We break down which you might see in 2025, and which might shoot up the rankings next season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Rutherford and Darby Robinson discuss the contracts given out to Drew Rasmussen and Taylor Walls, and break down the 2025 Hall of Fame class. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices