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Jun 2026

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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.

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June 16, 2026Episode 36044 min

The All-American Girls Professional Baseball League - AAGPBL & Cuba Expansion Plans

Host Mark Corbett sits down with Merrie Fidler, the foremost historian of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), to explore the league's remarkable history, from its wartime origins to its ambitious international expansion plans, and the ongoing revival of women's baseball today.Topics CoveredHow Merrie discovered the AAGPBL through a 1943 Time Magazine article while pursuing her master's degree in sport history at UMass AmherstHer years of primary research, interviewing former players, coaches, and executives, and spending a week at the Wrigley Building in Chicago going through Arthur Meyerhoff's filesThe origins of the league under Philip Wrigley, who designed it around baseball rules (not softball) and emphasized femininity to attract upper-class civic supportThe AAGPBL's historic 1947 spring training in Cuba, where teams drew 15,000 to 20,000 fans at Havana's grand stadium, and the 1948 expansion attempts in Tampa, Miami, and DaytonaMeyerhoff's vision for an international women's baseball league spanning Cuba, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Panama, and the Dominican Republic, and why it never materializedThe Cuban players recruited into the league, including Isabel Alvarez, who joined at age 14 and played for the Fort Wayne DaisiesThe role of players like Senaida "Shoo Shoo" Wirth as interpreters for the Cuban recruitsWhy the league ultimately declined: cuts to publicity, player development, and promotion after team administrators bought out Meyerhoff in 1951The 1988 Baseball Hall of Fame exhibit recognizing the AAGPBL, and the impact of the 1992 film A League of Their OwnMerrie's published book on the league's history (McFarland, 2003)Upcoming events: the International Women's Baseball World Cup (Group Stage) in Rockford, IL (home of the Peaches) and the AAGPBL reunion in Rockford; plus the Women's Pro Baseball League in SpringfieldKey TakeawaysThe AAGPBL played baseball, not softball, from its earliest years, with overhand pitching phased in by 1948Meyerhoff's marketing genius (hiring league-city sports editors as scorekeepers, daily newspaper game coverage) was central to the league's successThe decline of the league was driven less by TV or the end of WWII than by the decision to cut spending on promotion and player developmentWomen's baseball is growing again. Follow players like Kelsie Whitmore and Danae Benitez on social mediaResources MentionedAAGPBL website: aagpbl.orgMerrie Fidler’s book - The Origins and History of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball LeagueHistory Museum of South Bend, Indiana, national repository for AAGPBL archives

June 12, 2026Episode 35942 min

Celebrating the Tampa Bay Rays at a Birthday party + the Women's National Tournament

Mark's Birthday Surprise at the Ballpark Mark celebrates a milestone birthday with a surprise family reunion organized by his wife Karen. The whole family attended a Tampa Bay Rays vs. Miami Marlins game at LoanDepot Park (Marlins Park), where Mark got a "Grand Slam" scoreboard shoutout, a birthday button, and a slice of chocolate cake delivered to his seat behind the dugout. Special thanks to Lou Schiff for his help with this nightTampa Bay Rays RecapThe Rays are 5-5 in their last 10 games but have swept all AL East opponents.Drew Rasmussen delivered back-to-back dominant starts: 9 Ks in 7 innings (87 pitches) vs. the Marlins, followed by 13 Ks in 7 innings (97 pitches) vs. the Red Sox - 22 strikeouts over two games.The Rays beat Boston 7 - 5, overcoming a shaky eighth inning.Yandy Díaz is on fire in June: .444 AVG, .475 OBP, 1.058 OPS - the hosts discuss Yandy’s impact on younger hitters like Junior CamineroAaron Judge's injury opens a window for the Rays to take the AL East division crown outright, potentially reducing playoff risk.Mat breaks down how the Yankees' and Blue Jays' health issues shift the competitive landscape.Mike Trout's FutureWill Trout pull a "Ray Bourque" & join a contender to chase a World Series ring?Mat predicts he lands with the Dodgers; Mark dreams of Trout joining Randy Arozarena and Julio Rodríguez on the Seattle Mariners.Softball's "River" Rule Mark shares a curiosity from John Boy Media's YouTube channel: a women's softball rule where a batter crowding the plate in a certain zone (the "river") is NOT awarded first base after being hit by a pitch.Ken Babby & the Rays in the Community Mark attended an Embarc Tampa quarterly leadership meeting featuring Rays CEO Ken Babby. Highlights include Babby's background at The Washington Post's digital division (working alongside Steve Jobs on iPad rollout), his ownership of the Akron RubberDucks and Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, and his commitment to diversity - the Jumbo Shrimp were the only minor league team with a black general manager. That GM is now joining the Rays organization. The team also has upcoming community events including an Evan Longoria tribute night and a Juneteenth celebration.Sports, Community & Belonging Mat reflects on how championship runs — like the Blue Jays' World Series wins and the Montreal Canadiens' recent playoff run — unite cities across all cultures and backgrounds. The hosts discuss the undervalued economic and social impact of sports franchises on their communities.Women's Baseball in the SpotlightThe hosts preview a busy summer for women's baseball in Illinois.Women's Baseball World Cup Group Stage — Coming to Rivet Stadium in Rockford, IL (capacity ~4,000). Six teams, three games per day, USA plays the night game. Finals are set for 2027, also in Rockford.All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) reunion events.Baseball For All (founded by Dr. Justine Siegel) — grassroots tournaments and camps that have become pipelines to the Women's Pro Baseball League.Women's Pro Baseball League — launching in August in Springfield, IL.Guest interview with Ryan Woodward of the International Women's Baseball Center, discussing the Women's Baseball Heritage Trail (historic stops across the US and Canada) and the World Cup group stage.Tampa-Area Baseball ShoutoutsSt. Leo University wins the NCAA Division II Softball Championship.University of Tampa Spartans win the NCAA Division II Baseball Championship — a three-peat! Mark gives a special tribute to the late Tony Saladino, whose grandson Nico Saladino played on the previous UT championship team.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 @matgermain.bsky.social or Mark at baseballbizondeck@gmail.com and BaseballBiz On Deck with Facebook social

June 12, 2026Episode 35818 min

Women's International Baseball in Rockford - World Cup, WBSC, BFA & AAGPBL - Bonus

BaseballBiz On Deck —Guest: Ryan Woodward | Recorded June 10, 2026Episode Summary Host Mark Corbett sits down with Ryan Woodward — creator of Women in Baseball Week, the Women's Heritage Baseball Trail, and project coordinator for the International Women's Baseball Center (IWBC) in Rockford, Illinois — to discuss an historic summer for women's baseball.Key Topics CoveredWomen's Baseball World Cup — Group Stage in Rockford, IL (Late July 2026)Rockford is hosting a World Cup Group Stage the last week of July, with 6 international teams competingGame times: 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 7:00 PM daily — all six teams play every dayTeam USA plays every 7:00 PM night gameDay passes available (recommended for single-day attendees)Rockford has also been awarded the 2027 Women's Baseball World Cup FinalsTickets available via Eventbrite or through iwbc.orgMedia AccreditationMedia credential applications open Friday, June 12, 2026 through July 17, 2026Apply via the WBSC portal, linked from iwbc.orgVolunteer OpportunitiesVolunteer spots still available for World Cup events at Rivet Stadium and Beyer StadiumSign up and find details at iwbc.orgRoles include ticketing, ushering, and assisting teams at Beyer StadiumA Historic Week — Three Events ConvergingWomen's Baseball World Cup Group Stage — Rivet StadiumBaseball For All National Tournament — ~700 girls across multiple age divisions, playing at Park District Sports Core TwoAll-American Girls Baseball League Reunion — AAGPBL legends returning to RockfordBeyer Stadium Grand Reopening — June 20, 2026The legendary home of the Rockford Peaches has undergone major renovations over 9 monthsNew additions: lights, leveled outfield, scoreboard, press box, PA system, irrigation systemMaybelle Blair (age 99!) is expected to attend the reopeningGrand reopening: Saturday, June 20th, Rockford, ILLinks & ResourcesIWBC Website & World Cup info: iwbc.org WBSC: https://www.wbsc.org/en/events/2026-x-womens-baseball-world-cup-group-stage-rockford/home Women's Heritage Baseball Trail: https://womeninbaseballweek.org/index.php/heritagetrail/Women in Baseball Week: https://womeninbaseballweek.org/ Baseball For All: https://baseballforall.com/nationals/ AAGPBL: aagpbl.orgTickets: Eventbrite About Ryan Woodward Ryan Woodward is the creator of Women in Baseball Week, founder of the Women's Heritage Baseball Trail, and project coordinator for the International Women's Baseball Center in Rockford, Illinois. He is a passionate advocate for the history and future of women in baseball.

June 3, 2026Episode 35756 min

RaysUp - Tampa Bay Rays Home Stand with the Detroit Tigers

Tampa Bay Rays UpdateRays fall 10-9 to the Detroit Tigers in a wild game at Tropicana FieldDetroit's Dylan Dingler goes 4-for-5 with 4 RBIs, 4 runs, and 2 home runs — a persistent thorn in the Rays' side (.409 average, 1.234 OPS vs. Tampa Bay)Riley Green and Matt Carpenter also continue their success against the RaysGriffin Jax struggles in his starting role; discussion on whether he should be moved back to the bullpenTy Johnson looking strong in AAA and nearing a call-upStandings & Playoff OutlookWith 106 games remaining at time of recording, the Rays need a .509 win percentage to reach 90 wins90 wins historically locks up a playoff spotDiscussion of when to push chips in at the trade deadlineTrade Deadline Talk (August 3rd, 6 PM ET)Rays' needs: a reliable #2 starter, a power bat (4th in lineup), and bullpen depthCaminero (14 HR), Aranda and Diaz (11 HR each) — big drop-off to 3 HR for everyone elseWillson Contreras floated as a potential catcher/lineup upgradeThe Rays' 33rd overall draft pick could be a valuable trade chipInjury ConcernsCraig Kimbrel, Uceta, Jesse Shelton, Manuel Rodriguez all on the shelfDepth and health heading into the playoffs remain a concernMinor League WatchNathan Fluellen and Caden Bodine (catchers) and Theo Gillen (CF) starring in Bowling GreenBrody Hopkins showing personality and passion on the mound — walk issues similar to young Chris Archer, Blake Snell, and Taj BradleyMichael Ford making a strong impression; could be fast-trackedFormer Rays in the LeagueChristopher Sanchez (Phillies) leads all MLB pitchers in fWAR at 3.3 — traded for Curtis MeadJoel Ryan (5th in fWAR) — traded for Nelson CruzTristan Peters thriving with the Chicago White SoxFan Engagement at the TropThe "tarp boys" shirtless section goes viral; Raymond the mascot and Brett Phillips join inPlayers like Richie Palacios encouraging fans on social mediaWomen in BaseballWomen's baseball tournament in Rockford, Illinois (July) — home of the Rockford PeachesAll American Girls Professional Baseball League reunion happening simultaneouslyWomen's Pro Baseball League launching in Springfield (August)Ballpark Food SegmentMat's pick: Poutine (ideally with Montreal smoked meat) from La BanquiseMark's pick: Sausage with sautéed peppers and brown mustardDiscussion of beer-steamed hot dogs, kimchi, chow-chow, and Cuban sandwiches in TampaMark's "nutritionist for the Rays" pitch: a fresh fish taco bar — dubbed the "Grit & Glow"UpcomingRays vs. Marlins in Miami this weekendPossible future guest: a White Sox insider to discuss streakiness and the team's turnaroundBaseballBiz 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@matgermain.bsky.social . or Mark at baseballbizondeck@gmail.com and BaseballBiz On Deck with Facebook social

May 28, 2026Episode 35641 min

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

RaysUp - Kimbrel joins the Rays on a Rough Road TripMark 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 Covered1. Painful Baltimore Road TripThe 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 WatchFormer 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 RaysThe 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 RosterMat 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 PitchingJonathan 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 RepublicA 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 EnergyA 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 SituationMat 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 ShapeDespite 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 ScheduleRays 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

May 20, 2026Episode 35545 min

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

May 14, 2026Episode 35437 min

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 ImpactJesús 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 LineupVladimir 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 daysPossible 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 underpayRobbie Ray as a Trade TargetWon 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 astronomicalBullpenJeff 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 ClaseMat 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 PredictionsJays 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/

May 7, 2026Episode 35354 min

Rays on Fire - 5th Sweep - RaysUp!

Rays on FireThe 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 & InjuriesSteven 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 PlayersNick 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 & PitchComWalls 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 BreakdownBrian 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 UpdateRays 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 MLBNL 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 System3 of 4 affiliates leading their divisionsJacob Melton expected back healthy mid-seasonHunter Feduccia finding his groove at catcher; Fortes continues to produceNext EpisodeSpecial guest: Brent Cardy of The Cardy Show to help dissect the Toronto Blue Jays' struggles

April 30, 2026Episode 35259 min

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 & McClanahanNick 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 StadiumMemorable 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 NowMark: 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

April 20, 202659 min

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 RecapRays 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 PiratesPNC Park's beauty & setting along the three riversThe Pirates have gelled with new additions including Spencer Horowitz, Brandon Lowe, and Marcell OzunaOffense & Small BallThe 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 MullinsConcerns 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 SituationNick 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 ConcernsThe 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. RedsTerry 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 StadiumKen 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 CloseTampa 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