BaseballBiz On Deck

@TheBaseballBiz
  • 5.0 (12)
  • Baseball
  • Updated Biweekly

We cover the Business of Baseball, its history and how it operates. Interviews with Players, Agents, Owners, Scouts, Umpires, MLB, MLBPA, Major League, Minor League Sports Analysis. Music - Rocking Forward by XTaKeRux.

  1. Rays Rough Road Trip & Craig Kimbrel joins the Tampa Bay Rays

    3d ago

    Rays Rough Road Trip & Craig Kimbrel joins the Tampa Bay Rays

    RaysUp -  Kimbrel joins the Rays on a Rough Road Trip Mark and Mat recorded this live while watching the Tampa Bay Rays wrap up a painful road trip in Baltimore, with the Orioles leading 5-0 early and eventually extending the lead. Despite the tough loss, the guys cover a packed agenda of Rays news, roster moves, and big-picture topics. Topics Covered 1. Painful Baltimore Road Trip The Rays are getting roughed up in their final game in Baltimore. Steve Matz dominates early, putting up a 5-run first inning. The Orioles lineup — including standouts Ward and Alonso — is clicking at the right time. 2. Shane Baz & The X-Rays Watch Former Ray Shane Baz continues to impress with the Orioles, looking better than he ever did in Tampa. Mat notes his extension with Baltimore signals they're committed to him long-term, while discussing what the Orioles gave up (Grayson Rodriguez) and what they gained. 3. Craig Kimbrel Signs with the Rays The biggest roster news: the Rays signed talented veteran pitcher Craig Kimbrel. Mark and Mat break down: His career stats: 440 saves, 2018 World Series champion, 5x All-Star, 13.9 K/9 career rateHis walk rate dropping from 14% to 8% in 2026How the Rays coaching staff ("horse whisperer") can optimize his pitch mix and deceptive deliveryHis potential leadership value in the clubhouse alongside J.P. MartinezThe fun discussion about his signature pre-pitch lean-in routine — and what it means in the PitchCom era4. Victor Mesa Jr. Joins the Roster Mat is excited about the outfielder's speed, power, defense, and baserunning — calling him a picture-perfect fit for the Rays' 2026 style of play. He profiles alongside Ryan Vilade, Chandler Simpson, and Cedric Mullins in the outfield mix. 5. Bullpen Depth & Starting Pitching Jonathan Heasley called up from Durham as Jesse Scholten hits the IL — Mat sees Heasley as a Zack Littell–type reclamation projectHunter Bigge still searching for his groove after returning from injuryGriffin Jax showing some fatigue; managing workloads is criticalCharlie Morton floated as a potential bullpen/reliever target for a short-season role6. Wander Franco Pardoned in the Dominican Republic A sobering segment. Mat and Mark discuss: The Dominican Republic court's pardon and what it meansMLB's position as the ultimate decision-maker on reinstatementThe $182 million in guaranteed money still owed by the RaysHow political pressure (domestic and international) could influence MLB's rulingThe morals clause question and whether it applies across jurisdictions7. Fan Culture & Left Field Energy A lighter moment: the shirtless fans in left field at Tropicana Field have become a genuine phenomenon. Mat compares it to beach culture; Mark notes even with only 11,000 in attendance, the noise was palpable and the players were visibly feeding off it. 8. Stadium Situation Mat flags the ongoing stadium issue as still unresolved and worth watching. Mark mentions plans to research how a similar stadium project in Tennessee (Nippon Stadium) navigated the political and business hurdles. 9. Big Picture: Rays Are Still in Great Shape Despite the rough road trip, Mat closes on an optimistic note: 2nd overall pick in the upcoming draftCompensation pick available in trade packagesStrong minor league system (FCL crew standouts, Caden Bodine promoted)Just need a .500 record from here to reach 90 winsA significant trade expected before the All-Star break — watch the San Francisco Giants and Robbie RayUpcoming on the Schedule Rays return home — Angels series next (a chance to get the bats going)Mark & Karen heading to Miami to catch the Rays vs. Marlins. Thank you Lou Schiff (right behind the dugout!)BaseballBiz On Deck is produced by Mark Corbett and Mat Germain. New episodes drop regularly throughout the baseball season. Remember to like and subscribe to BaseballBiz On Deck. You may also find BaseballBiz on Deck, on YouTube at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at baseball biz on deck dot com. Also you can find Mat at M-A-T-G-E-R-M-A-I-N dot B Sky social. That's Mat at M-A-T-G-E-R-M-A-I-N dot B, Sky social or Mark at baseballbizondeck at gmail.com and BaseballBiz On Deck with Facebook social

    41 min
  2. Red Sox Reality Check with Gordo from Play Tessie

    May 20

    Red Sox Reality Check with Gordo from Play Tessie

    Special guest Gordo from the podcast Play Tessie joins Mark Corbett and Mat Germain for an in-depth look at the current state of the Boston Red Sox. The crew breaks down Boston’s elite pitching, offensive struggles, leadership concerns, player development, trade deadline possibilities, and how the Red Sox compare to the Rays model of success.  Red Sox Pitching is Carrying the Team  Boston’s starting rotation and bullpen have been among the best in the American League during May.  Sonny Gray’s dominant outing sparks discussion about the strength of the staff.  Gordo explains how the pitching staff consistently gives the Red Sox opportunities to win games. Offensive Problems Continue  The Red Sox remain one of the weakest offensive teams in baseball despite strong pitching and defense.  Trevor Story, Jarren Duran, and Caleb Durbin are discussed as major offensive disappointments.  Gordo notes that even league average run production would make Boston one of baseball’s top teams. Life After Rafael Devers and Alex Bregman  Discussion on the impact of losing star players and veteran leadership.  Pressure has shifted onto younger players who may not yet be ready to carry the offense.  Roman Anthony’s development becomes a major focal point for the franchise moving forward. Christian Campbell and the Youth Movement  Debate over Christian Campbell’s future position and timeline to return to the majors.  The group discusses whether Campbell should move back to the infield.  Concerns are raised about rushing top prospects before they are fully ready. Comparing the Rays and Red Sox Development Systems  Mat explains how the Rays build organizational identity from the Florida Complex League all the way to the majors.  Gordo discusses Boston’s analytics-heavy developmental philosophy and recent coaching changes.  The conversation explores whether the Red Sox lack a unified organizational identity. Leadership and Clubhouse Identity  Alex Cora’s firing and Chad Tracy’s promotion are discussed in detail.  The hosts examine whether Boston lacks veteran leadership and emotional anchors in the clubhouse.  Comparisons are made to successful Rays teams built around accountability and defense-first baseball. Ownership and Spending Questions  The crew debates whether Red Sox ownership still has the same urgency to win.  Comparisons are made between Boston’s current payroll strategy and previous championship seasons.  Fenway Sports Group’s expanding business interests become part of the discussion. Brutal Upcoming Schedule  The Red Sox face one of the toughest remaining schedules in baseball.  Matchups against the Braves, Yankees, Rays, Blue Jays, Mariners, Dodgers, and others could define the season. Trade Deadline Speculation  Gordo breaks down possible trade chips including Sonny Gray, Aroldis Chapman, and Garrett Whitlock.  Mat discusses why the Rays could potentially pursue Chapman at the deadline.  The group debates whether Boston should buy, sell, or retool for next season. What Gordo is Watching the Rest of the Season  Roman Anthony’s health and development remain the biggest storyline for Boston.  Gordo explains why Anthony could still become the centerpiece of the franchise. Featured Guest  Gordo from the Play Tessie podcast  Contributor to Baseball Isn’t Boring Follow Gordo on X: @BOSSportsGordo Remember to like and subscribe to BaseballBiz On Deck. You may also find BaseballBiz on Deck, on YouTube at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at baseball biz on deck dot com. Also you can find Mat at M-A-T-G-E-R-M-A-I-N dot B Sky social. That's Mat at M-A-T-G-E-R-M-A-I-N dot B, Sky social or Mark at baseballbizondeck at gmail.com and BaseballBiz On Deck with Facebook social

    46 min
  3. Toronto Blue Jays 2026 - State of the season with Brent Cardy

    May 14

    Toronto Blue Jays 2026 - State of the season with Brent Cardy

    Mat Germain sits down with Blue Jays insider Brent Cardy to break down the state of the Toronto Blue Jays in 2026.  The Blue Jays Injury Bug  Anthony Santander – out for the year Shane Bieber – June return still possibleJimmy Garcia –  facing setbacks in rehabJosé Berríos – forearm fracture, got lit up in rehab startsMax Scherzer Alejandro KirkNathan LukesAddison BargerGeorge Springer New Faces Making an Impact Jesús Sánchez – power against rightiesYohendrick Piñango – strong swing, great at-bats, batting near top of lineupBrandon Valenzuela – switch-handed catcher, big power & a rocket arm, showing some rookie growing painsSpencer Miles – Rule 5 pick from the Giants; threw 3 shutout innings on Mother's Day; Jays now considering him as a rotation optionErik Lauer DFA'd after a rough startSchedule gets harder from here — Yankees (with Gerrit Cole returning), Baltimore, and tougher AL East competition. Brent is cautiously pessimistic but believes the team will eventually get healthy and go on a run.Vladdy, Bo, and the Lineup Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – only 2 HR’s; may be pressing himself under the weight of $500M contract (comparison to Vernon Wells' struggles after his big deal)The loss of Bo Bichette to the Mets has left a voidThe offense tends to hit in bunches (Vladdy, Springer, Okamoto, Varsho) without a reliable anchorFrancisco Lindor Trade? - Shapiro & Atkins have a history with Lindor from their Cleveland days Possible pieces: Arjun Nimmala, JoJo Parker, Andrés Giménez, Davis Schneider, or Addison BargerMoney coming off the books (Springer, Scherzer) Brent sees the fit — a dynamic switch-hitter is exactly what this lineup needsPitching Depth: Who's Next from AAA? Top candidates from Buffalo to watch: Chad Dallas – back from Tommy John; ~3 ERA in seven startsAustin Voth – waiver pickup, bulk innings guyGrant Rogers – big frame, mid-90s fastball, high release pointRicky Tiedemann – hasn't pitched since 2024, same issues persistingDylan Cease - Strong early returns; going 7 innings in his last two starts.  Velocity & command are elite.  Brent believes the price tag will look like an underpay Robbie Ray as a Trade Target Won Cy Young with the Jays in 2021Pairing him with Cease would be a formidable 1-2 in a playoff seriesBrent likes the fit; doesn't expect price tag to be astronomicalBullpen Jeff Hoffman – out of the closer role, settling into 7th/8th; velocityLouis Varland – closing; loves his mentality, wants him in the zone moreTyler Rogers – middle reliefMason Fluharty – doing a solid job but playing above his weightJoe Mantiply – veteran add, not a high-impact armSpencer Miles – potential starter,  injury history a concernSmall Ball & Jonatan Clase Mat draws parallels between Jonatan Clase & Chandler Simpson (TB Rays) — elite speed and tools, but needs to commit to the fundamentalsBrent agrees the Jays need to play more small ball given the lack of middle-of-the-order powerAll-Star Predictions Jays All-Stars: Vladdy Guerrero Jr. and Dylan CeaseRecord at the All-Star Break: 42–46 (under .500, but still in wild card contention given the weak AL)Follow Brent Cardy with his Blue Jays Breakfast on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecardyshowpodcast/

    37 min
  4. Rays on Fire - 5th Sweep - RaysUp!

    May 7

    Rays on Fire - 5th Sweep - RaysUp!

    Rays on Fire The Rays are 24–12, with 5 sweeps — most in the majors — & have won 9 of their last 1013 consecutive games allowing 3 or fewer runs; starter ERA 1.38, bullpen ERA 0.998–1 in one-run games; 6–0 against AL East opponents; 13–6 at nightTeam ERA (3.68) significantly lower than FIP (4.12) — a sign of elite defensePitching Depth & Injuries Steven Matz lands on the ILRyan Pepiot likely out for the seasonGriffin Jax & Mason Englert stepping in; Jesse Scholtens expected to piggybackBrody Hopkins - strong Triple-A outing (7 K's in 5 IP)Mat floats Robbie Ray as a trade target to shore up the rotationStandout Players Nick Martinez – elite command, competitive fire, joyful presence on the moundJonathan Aranda – polished, clutch, consistent; Mat's pick for most exciting RayRyan Vilade – .438 wOBA with men on base, .500 in scoring position vs. leftiesChandler Simpson – speed, contact, pestering baserunner; even opposing announcers are frustratedBen Williamson – .345 avg over last 9 games & versatile defendShane McClanahan – 5⅔ IP, 2 hits, 4 K's vs. Shane; praised for team-first mentalityTaylor Walls & PitchCom Walls has earned new respect at the plate and in the fieldUses a PitchCom earpiece to pre-position himself before pitches Compared to the "Jeter school" of anticipating play before it happensMat - "Who will be first to hack or jam PitchCom?"Bullpen Breakdown Brian Baker: 9 saves, 15 K's over 13 IP, only 3 walks — emerged as closer after a rocky 2025Garrett Clevenger returns; Ian Seymour strong from day oneCasey Legumina and Cole Sulser filling unexpected rolesStill missing Manuel Rodriguez, Edwin Uceta & Steven WilsonDespite absences, Pen ranks top 5 in MLBStadium / MOU Update Rays reportedly willing to cover cost overruns Ask dropped from $1.5B to $1.15B — same as what Orlando has already committedBabby's July deadline looms; officials say documentation hasn't been providedMat and Mark both lean toward Orlando as the likely landing spot for the RaysMat argues the land deal may be the real endgame for ownershipAround MLB NL Central: All five teams at or above .500 — the most competitive division in baseballNL West: Dodgers & Padres in a two-team race, ~ 4 games clear of ArizonaNL East: Braves lead the Phillies by 9 gamesAL West: Only one team above .500 (Athletics, barely); Astros and Angels strugglingAL Central: Every team under .500AL East: Rays and Yankees out in frontFuture of MLB: Promotion & Relegation? Mat proposes a 12-team second league below the majors, with promotion/relegationPotential benefits: fan engagement, gambling markets, new TV deals, expanded rosters/salariesMLBPA would likely support it (more jobs, higher player values)Key hurdle: stadium infrastructure for new citiesBoth agree expansion should come before any realignmentRays Minor League System 3 of 4 affiliates leading their divisionsJacob Melton expected back healthy mid-seasonHunter Feduccia finding his groove at catcher; Fortes continues to produceNext Episode Special guest: Brent Cardy of The Cardy Show to help dissect the Toronto Blue Jays' struggles

    55 min
  5. Teams 500+, NLBM, Legends in Kansas City & Rays 3 M's

    Apr 30

    Teams 500+, NLBM, Legends in Kansas City & Rays 3 M's

    Early-Season Manager Firings An unusually high number of high-profile managers have been fired before the season even hit 30 games. Alex Cora's departure from Boston, why he turned down the Phillies job, and what it means for the Red Sox going forward — including the treatment of franchise legend Jason Varitek. NL Central Surprise Every team in the NL Central is above .500, a rare feat not matched by any other division. The American League, by comparison, has just four teams above .500 total.  break down why this division deserves more national attention and what it means at the trade deadline. Tampa Bay Rays Update The 3 M's are strong — Martinez, Matz & McClanahan Nick Martinez has emerged as a fan favorite and rotation anchorShane McClanahan's comeback story continues to impressSteven Matz is providing veteran leadership and consistencyJesse Schultz has looked outstanding in his early appearancesOBP, batting average, and stolen bases are all upGavin Lux is working his way up in AAA, with a key roster decision looming involving Taylor Walls and Ben WilliamsonFormer Rays Around the League Mark tracks ex-Rays including Josh Lowe (Angels), Jake Bauers (breaking up a Paul Skenes no-hit bid), and Nathaniel Lowe's walk-off home run.  Kansas City Trip  a memorable trip to Kauffman Stadium Memorable trip to Kauffman StadiumMoving visit to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, including a chance encounter with President Bob KendrickReflections on Buck O'Neal's legacy and his connection to Florida historyThe Royals' iconic fountains, Friday night fireworks, and the famous "PaSquatch" Sasquatch mascot for Vinnie PasquantinoThe beloved outfield experience: putt-putt, batting cages, carousel, and BBQGame-by-game stats for Mike Trout and Salvador Perez across the Angels-Royals seriesStadium Funding Debate The Rays' public funding request has been reduced by ~$150M to ~$1 billion, but Hillsborough County officials say it still falls short. Mark and Mat broaden the conversation to the ethics of billion-dollar stadium spending across MLB and NFL, contrasting it with the Blue Jays' $500M Rogers Centre renovation. Most Intriguing Teams Right Now Mark: Disappointed by the Blue Jays' slow start; keeping an eye on the Astros (11-19)Mat: The Oakland Athletics — underrated lineup (Nick Kurtz, Shea Langeliers, Carlos Cortez), a new stadium on the way, and a budget freed up for big movesThe Pirates also getting Mat's attention as a fun, under-covered teamABS (Automated Ball-Strike System) The guys discuss the ABS system's growing role in the game, including a malfunction during a Rays game that may have affected the outcome. Both hosts are bullish on its future, believing it levels the playing field and will eventually be used every pitch. 2026 MLB Draft Preview With the Rays holding the 2nd overall pick, the debate is between: Grady Emerson (SS, toolsy with Bobby Witt Jr. comparisons)Von Lockey (C, Georgia Tech) — with the Rays historically lacking an elite catcher, this pick could change the franchiseKey Names Mentioned Alex Cora, Jason Varitek, Don Mattingly,  Bobby Witt Jr., Nick Martinez, Shane McClanahan, Steven Matz, Jesse Schultz, Gavin Lux, Taylor Walls, Ben Williamson, Mike Trout, Salvador Perez, Josh Lowe, Jake Bauers, Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Willie Adames, Rafael Devers, Matt Chapman, Bob Kendrick, Buck O'Neal, Nick Kurtz, Shea Langeliers, Carlos Cortez, Alex Bregman, Isaac Paredes, Grady Emerson, Von Lockey, Cedric Mullins, Vinnie Pasquantino, Jose Ramirez

    1 hr
  6. RaysUp - Tampa Bay Rays - 2 Sweeps, Loss to Pirates & Stadium fracas continues

    Apr 20

    RaysUp - Tampa Bay Rays - 2 Sweeps, Loss to Pirates & Stadium fracas continues

    Mark and Mat recap the Tampa Bay Rays' series against the Pittsburgh Pirates (a 2-1 series loss for the Rays), dig into minor league depth, the stadium situation, &preview the upcoming series vs. Cincinnati Reds. Rays vs. Pirates Series Recap Rays dropped rubber match, losing series 2-1 after executing two consecutive sweepsGame 2 (Rays win): Epic 13-inning rain-soaked comeback at PNC Park — one of the best games of the early seasonShane McClanahan and Drew Rasmussen each had rough outings, giving up 4+ runs; both struggled to shake off walks mentallyCaminero's 103 mph blast off Wilbur DotelPitcher mental focus — from Pedro Martinez, Roger ClemensPNC Park & the Pirates PNC Park's beauty & setting along the three riversThe Pirates have gelled with new additions including Spencer Horowitz, Brandon Lowe, and Marcell OzunaOffense & Small Ball The Rays have scored 5+ runs in 9 of their first ~22 games — surprising for a team not expected to produce offensivelyChandler Simpson highlighted: one of MLB's lowest strikeout rates, top-30 defensive rating (FanGraphs), and fastest-improving outfielderLineup restructuring (Junior in the 2-hole, Aranda and Diaz behind him) is creating consistent pressure on opposing pitchersOutfield Depth & Cedric Mullins Concerns about Mullins' defense center fieldMat predicts Jacob Melton (Durham) will be the starting CF by JuneJohnny DeLuca an optionDeep look at the Rays' stacked outfield pipeline: Theo Gillen, Austin Nover, Taitn Gray (18-year-old hitting 110 mph exit velo in A-ball), Brendan SummerhillCatching Situation Nick Fortes - his growing confidence & leadershipHunter Fiducia still finding his footingDom Keegan (bat looks MLB-ready, arm a question mark)  potential mid-season callupMinor league catchers to watch: Nathan Fluellen (A+: .316/.381/.711) and Caden Bodine (A-ball: .380/.446 OBP) — both putting up remarkable early numbers Adding bullpen catchers with a system-wide catching focusAAA Depth Concerns The Durham Bulls' pitching depth is thinHopkins & Boyle - working through mechanical issuesStarters (McClanahan, Rasmussen, Martinez, Matz) need to stay healthyMatz & Martinez now look like competitive assets rather than trade chipsUpcoming: Rays vs. Reds Terry Francona returns to face his former bench coach Kevin CashThe NL Central is legitimately competitive top-to-bottom — Reds (13-8), Pirates (13-9), Brewers & Cardinals (12-8), Cubs (11-9)Mat argues Tampa should be framing the stadium situation as an Orlando vs. Tampa battle, not a public vs. private money debateRays Stadium Ken Babby quote: "Should this commitment ultimately not be achievable, we would have no choice but to evaluate alternatives…there will be no shortage of potential options."Mat's proposed solution: city receives naming rights revenue until the public loan is paid back, then it transfers to the teamBoth hosts frustrated by what feels like a predetermined outcome ("shadow theater")Positive Note to Close Tampa Baseball Museum at a Little League home run derby — a reminder of what baseball is really aboutOptimism about the Rays' small-ball shift; shoutout to Josh Weaver for his early-season predictionNotable Mentions: Chandler Simpson, Jacob Melton, Caden Bodine, Nathan Fluellen, Taitn Gray, Nick Fortes, Dom Keegan, Shane McClanahan, Drew Rasmussen, Ramiro Caminero, Cedric Mullins, Brandon Lowe, Marcell Ozuna, Terry Francona, Kevin Cash, Ken Babby

    1 hr
  7. A Visit with Josh Weaver to The Tampa Baseball Museum

    Apr 16

    A Visit with Josh Weaver to The Tampa Baseball Museum

    Episode: The Tampa Baseball Museum with Josh Weaver Hosts: Mark Corbett & Mat Germain Guest: Josh Weaver, Curator of the Tampa Baseball Museum Episode Overview Mark and Mat sit down with returning guest Josh Weaver, curator of the Tampa Baseball Museum, to discuss the museum's history, community outreach, future modernization ideas, and the incredible depth of major league baseball talent that has come out of Hillsborough County, Florida. Key Topics Covered The Tampa Baseball Museum Located in a historic 1905 casita (home) in Ybor City — the former home of Al Lopez, the first player from Tampa to reach the major leaguesOne of only four museums in the U.S. housed in a player's actual birthplace or home (alongside the Babe Ruth Museum in Baltimore, Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum in Greenville, SC, and the Hank Aaron Museum in Mobile, AL)Focuses on Hillsborough County baseball history, not just the city of TampaCurrently features 121 players born or raised in Hillsborough County who made it to the major leagues, with 89 baseballs on the "baseball wall"Four Hall of Famers with Hillsborough County ties: Al Lopez, Wade Boggs, Tony La Russa, and Fred McGriffCommunity Outreach Mobile museum that travels to little league opening/closing day ceremonies and local eventsSponsors teams in West Tampa Little LeagueUses artifacts (like Tino Martinez's 2000 World Series jersey) to spark intergenerational baseball conversationsPartners with local mascots (King Ripple, Finley, SouthPaw) for reading events at schools and librariesHosts intimate "Coach's Corner" events featuring retired players and coaches (e.g., Larry Rothschild, David Magadan, Joe Maddon, Roberto Hernandez)The Reading Series Josh has written a children's book on Baltimore's Camden YardsUpcoming releases: children's biographies of local judge and former minor leaguer Robin Fuson, and MLB veteran David MagadanPlayers have full review and editorial control over their booksFuture Ideas Discussed Virtual reality and holographic technology to modernize the museum experience and attract younger visitorsA "sandlot game" concept: retired MLB players vs. current regional coaches, to bridge generations and grow community engagementPreserving memories of the Tropicana Field via 360° VR before the venue changesCollaboration with other small baseball museums (Ty Cobb Museum, Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum) for cross-museum eventsNotable Players & Names Mentioned Al Lopez, Wade Boggs, Tino Martinez, Luis Gonzalez, Fred McGriff, Tony La Russa, Lou Piniella, Pete Alonso, Kyle Tucker, Preston Tucker, Kevin Cash, Brett Phillips, Logan Gilbert, Caglianone, David Magadan, Roberto Hernandez, Joe Maddon, Pop Cuesta, Pete Mulry, Nardi Contreras, Chuck Hernandez, Manny Seoane, Robin Fuson, Randy Myers, Clint Hurdle, Arminda Mata (CEO, Ybor Society) Resources & Links Tampa Baseball Museum website: Search "Tampa Baseball Museum"Facebook / Instagram: Follow Tampa Baseball Museum for upcoming events and the newsletterPrevious episode: Arminda Mata, CEO of the Ybor City Museum SocietyPrevious episode: Robin Fuson (judge/former minor leaguer)Book mention: Baseball and the Law by Lou Schiff (features Robin Fuson and Tony La Russa)

    50 min
  8. RaysUp - Tropicana Field Opening Day

    Apr 7

    RaysUp - Tropicana Field Opening Day

    BaseballBiz On Deck – Rays Tropicana Field Opening Day Hosts: Mark Corbett & Mat Germain Episode Overview Mark and Mat celebrate the Tampa Bay Rays' Opening Day at Tropicana Field — the first game played there in 561 days — breaking down the action on the field and the excitement surrounding the return. Topics Covered Opening Day at the Trop Sellout crowd of 25,114 — tickets going for $162 in the morning, up to $260 by early afternoonThe renovated Trop features a new single-layer roof letting in more natural light, a wire camera system, and even an in-stadium droneMic issues aside, the energy was electricGame Recap: Rays 5, Cubs 4 Shane McClanahan returned to the mound and pitched 4 strong innings (1 hit, 4 walks, 2 K's) — pulled early to protect his arm as he continues rebuilding after 3 years awayHome runs from Cedric Mullins, Junior Caminero (his 2nd), and Jonathan Aranda (his 3rd)Taylor Walls returned and contributed; Chandler Simpson stole two basesPete Baker impressed out of the bullpen, showing intensity and a closer's mentalityNearly every Rays starter got on baseJoe Adell's Triple Robbing Game (Angels vs. Mariners) Discussion of Adell's incredible three-catch game — including a tumbling over-the-fence grab — and what it means for baseball fans everywhereAL East Standings Check Rays at .500 (5-5) on a 3-game winning streakBlue Jays dealing with injuries (Alejandro Kirk, Bo Bichette out)Orioles struggling despite talent; Pirates looking like a team with energy and purposeRed Sox at 2-7 with a -15 run differential despite a loaded pitching staffJosh Fleming (ex-Ray) recalled by the Blue JaysStadium Talk & Future of the Trop Upcoming vote on April 15th regarding the new stadium deal — potential repercussions if it failsOrlando and Nashville mentioned as viable relocation optionsGovernor DeSantis spotted chatting with new owner Zalupski at the gameMark and Mat acknowledge the herculean effort of players, staff, and city officials to make this opening day happenUpcoming Schedule Cubs (series finale) → Yankees (home) → White Sox → at PiratesPitcher Health & Roster Expansion Ongoing discussion about protecting pitchers — Mat proposes a creative solution: day-after starters removed from the active roster, allowing an extra reliever without expanding the rosterBroader CBA conversation — focus on player health and expansion before salary cap debatesStadium Bucket List Mark plans trips to Kansas City (Royals vs. Angels) and the Negro Leagues Museum; also eyeing Petco Park and TexasMat's top bucket list pick: Wrigley FieldDiscussion of what makes a stadium historic and soulful (Fenway, Camden Yards, PNC Park) — and what the Rays' new venue needs to achieve thatKey Names Mentioned Shane McClanahan · Junior Caminero · Jonathan Aranda · Chandler Simpson · Pete Baker · Taylor Walls · Joe Adell · Josh Fleming · Vladimir Guerrero Jr. · Alejandro Kirk · Pete Alonso · Rafael Devers · Bobby Witt Jr. · Mike Trout · Bob Kendrick · Josh Gibson · Kevin Cash · Ken Hagan · Andy Freed · Governor DeSantis · Zalupski

    52 min
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5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

We cover the Business of Baseball, its history and how it operates. Interviews with Players, Agents, Owners, Scouts, Umpires, MLB, MLBPA, Major League, Minor League Sports Analysis. Music - Rocking Forward by XTaKeRux.

Information

  • Creator
    @TheBaseballBiz
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    349
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 BaseballBiz On Deck
  • Show Website
    BaseballBiz On Deck