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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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 & television 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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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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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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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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In this festive Locked On Rays episode, we break down the Rays taking a chance on former White Sox/Orioles designated hitter Eloy Jiménez with a prove-it deal. We break down his $2 million contract with incentives (if he makes the team) and discuss his power-hitting potential, injury history, and what he could bring to the lineup in 2025. Can he follow in the footsteps of past successful Rays bounce-back stories? Then, we get into our Rays holiday wish lists. (Hint: We’re asking Santa for more offensive help in 2025, plus shovels in the ground for a new Rays stadium in St. Petersburg.)

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Join us for an action-packed episode as the Locked On Rays crews teams up with Locked On A’s host Booney! We dive deep into the Oakland Athletics and Tampa Bay Rays, covering:

Remembering Rickey Henderson: Reflecting on the life and legacy of one of baseball’s all-time greats, from his Hall of Fame career to his incredible records in stolen bases and runs scored.

Why A’s Fans are Excited About Jeffrey Springs: Breaking down what Springs brings to the team and why his acquisition has Athletics fans buzzing with hope.

Joe Boyle’s Big League Profile: A closer look at Boyle’s journey to the majors and what Rays fans can expect from him in 202.

Oakland’s Relocation Drama: What’s the latest on the A’s move to Las Vegas? Will Oakland ever see another MLB team?

A’s Payroll Woes: Exploring the implications of the Athletics' minimal payroll spending, and how it’s gotten them in hot water with the MLB Players Association.

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On this episode of Locked On Rays, we dive into the high-stakes drama surrounding the Tampa Bay Rays' future home. With St. Petersburg council members approved their share of financing earlier this month alongside Pinellas County Commission’s approval from Tuesday (5-2 bonds vote passed). The commission's decision on the stadium bonds has now put all the pressure on the Tampa Bay Rays.

We’ll break the following with WTSP’s Sports Director Evan Closky:

⚾ Why these approvals still might not secure the Rays' commitment.

⚾ The key players in the commission, including Chris Scherer, Dave Eggers, and Chris Latvala, and their pivotal roles in this decision

⚾ Could a competing pitch for a waterfront stadium in Tampa’s Ybor Harbor, made in July 2023, resurface as a viable alternative?

With rising construction costs, looming deadlines, and questions about public funding, the Rays are under pressure to secure a solution. Are they leaning toward Ybor (or elsewhere) or committed to keeping baseball in St. Pete? Tune in as we analyze the political, financial, and community implications of this decision and what it means for the Rays’ future in Tampa Bay.

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