• No Roof? No Roki Sasaki For You | Locked On Rays
    2025/01/18

    The Tampa Bay Rays were poised to make a big splash in the international free-agent market with Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, but fate – and a hurricane – had other plans. On this episode of Locked On Rays, we dive deep into the Rays' pursuit of Sasaki, the financial and logistical hurdles they faced, and what his signing could have meant for the team.

    We explore:

    Sasaki's projected impact as a top-tier MLB starter and how his arrival might have reshaped the Rays' rotation.

    The financial dynamics of international signings, including Sasaki's expected $5 million bonus and minor-league deal.

    How the Rays' history with Japanese players could have set the stage for a brighter future.

    Finally, we reflect on the Rays' current international prospects, their big moves this signing period, and the long odds of turning teenage potential into MLB stardom. Don’t miss this inside look at what could have been—and what might still be for Tampa Bay.

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    36 分
  • MAILBAG: Best Rotation in the AL East Goes to | Locked On Rays
    2025/01/16

    MAILBAG EPISODE!!!

    -Which 3 Rays players are the most likely to be traded at the deadline and why?

    -Do the Rays have the best rotation in the AL East with Shane McClanahan returning plus Drew Rasmussen, Taj Bradley, Shane Baz, Ryan Pepiot and Zack Littell?

    -Is humidity going to play a part in home runs while playing at Steinbrenner Field this season?

    -When MLB expands to 32 teams, what will realignment look like? Will there be a restructuring of divisions based on geographical proximity? Could it be something else entirely different?

    Let us know what you think about all these questions in the comments!

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    32 分
  • Taylor Walls Goes to Arbitration Against Rays | Locked On Rays
    2025/01/15

    In this episode of the Locked On Rays podcast, we dive into the intriguing arbitration case between infielder Taylor Walls and the Tampa Bay Rays, as there’s only a $275,000 gap separating Walls’ $1.575 million request and the Rays’ $1.3 million offer. We analyze the numbers, the arguments, and the potential implications for the player and the organization.

    Who has the better case? We break down the Rays’ strategy and Walls’ counterpoints, examining his elite defensive metrics, versatility, and baserunning prowess. The downside: Walls’ declining offensive production and struggles at the plate may make this a tough sell in arbitration.The bigger picture: Could this arbitration battle signal the Rays are preparing to move on from Walls, or is this just business as usual for Tampa Bay’s notoriously tight payroll management?

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    29 分
  • Could Rays TV Deal Bring Hope to Fans? with Longtime Media Executive Jim Williams | Locked On Rays
    2025/01/10

    Part 2 with Jim Williams!

    The Locked on Rays crew continues its in-depth conversation with Jim Williams – who, as a 7-time Emmy Award winning sports television producer, director and executive – continues to deliver fascinating insights into the intersection of media, MLB, and the business of sports.

    He explores potential MLB expansion cities, the evolving dynamics of Rays ownership, and how regional and national television deals play a role in keeping the Rays in Tampa Bay. We also get Jim's take on the Rays playing at Steinbrenner Field in 2025, and how that environment impacts fans, players, and media alike.

    Tune in for Jim's perspective on the future of baseball in Tampa Bay and beyond. This is part two of a two-part interview.

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    31 分
  • MLB Franchise Relocation Brings Hurdles with Longtime Media Executive Jim Williams | Locked On Rays
    2025/01/09

    The Locked on Rays crew is joined by Jim Williams, a media powerhouse with 45 years of experience and seven Emmy Awards to his name as sports television producer, director & executive.

    Jim has produced or directed over 3,000 live events across a diverse range of sports, including MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL, boxing, tennis, golf, and college sports. Jim shares his journey growing up in Tampa Bay and breaking into the sports media world.

    He dives into challenges MLB faces with franchise relocation, and why expansion to 32 teams could shape the league's future. Jim also provides unique insights into the Rays' stadium saga and the importance of Rob Manfred’s behind-the-scenes involvement in working to keep the team in Tampa Bay. (Note: This is part one of a two-part interview.)

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    35 分
  • Drew Rasmussen Gets Extended | Locked On Rays
    2025/01/08

    Rays and Drew Rasmussen strike a deal that could reach $28 million. This multi-year deal with a team option for 2027, which buys out his first Free Agent year, comes with a $500,000 signing bonus and is guaranteed for approximately $8 million.

    -The righty who made his MLB debut in 2020 is expected to return as a starter this season after he returned last August from third elbow surgery.

    -The deal guarantees Rasmussen $8.5 million but could be worth up to $28 million. He gets a $500,000 signing bonus, $2 million for 2025, $5.5 million for $2026 and a team option for 2027 for $8 million. (The option comes with escalators based on health and innings pitched that could push the total to as much as $20 million; the buyout is $500,000.)

    -Rasmussen was one of six Rays remaining in the arbitration process, facing a Thursday 1 p.m. deadline to agree to terms or head to a hearing. …The other five are pitchers Zack Littell, Shane Baz, Garrett Cleavinger; infielder Taylor Walls; catcher Ben Rortvedt.

    -In 44 starts with the Rays since the Willy Adames trade in 2021, Drew has a record of 18-9 with a 2.57 ERA, and a combination of 195 strikeouts and 48 walks over 227 2/3 innings.

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    29 分
  • Stadium Aside, How Would You Grade the Rays Offseason? | Locked On Rays
    2025/01/01

    In this episode of the Locked on Rays podcast, we dive into the Tampa Bay Rays' offseason moves, grading their signings, trades, and losses up to this point. From the addition of Danny Jansen to bolster the catcher position to the intriguing acquisition of Eloy Jiménez, we discuss whether these moves are enough to keep the Rays competitive in a fiercely active AL East. We also break down the notable subtractions, including Jeffrey Springs and Jose Siri, and whether the Rays' strategy to trust their offensive core will pay off.

    Plus, with Tropicana Field potentially uninhabitable for 2025, we debate where the team’s next FanFest should be held. Could it be an outdoor park, a nearby venue, or something more unconventional? Tune in as we weigh in on all things Rays and explore how the AL East rivals are shaping up for the season.

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    38 分
  • Behind the Rays Stadium Deal with Commissioner Chris Latvala | Locked On Rays
    2024/12/27

    In this episode of Locked on Rays, we sit down with Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Latvala for an in-depth conversation about the twists and turns of the Rays stadium saga.

    Commissioner Latvala shares his journey from opposing to supporting the deal, providing insight into what changed his perspective and the role MLB has played behind the scenes. He discusses his interactions with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, shedding light on baseball's commitment to Tampa Bay and MLB's involvement in the project's negotiations.

    The discussion also delves into the Rays' ownership and management, exploring concerns about their long-term commitment to the region, the challenges of cost overruns, and the trust issues that have emerged during the process.

    Finally, we talk baseball fandom, stadium design wish lists, and what lies ahead for the team and the community.

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    57 分