Ken Babby's success, Sternberg's Legacy, & Stadium Design talk with Yale students

Mat and analyst Mark dive into a big week for Tampa Bay baseball fans as the Rays transition to new ownership and the future of the franchise begins to take shape.

• Pumpkin spice & postseason baseball:
• Reflecting on Stu Sternberg’s era: 
  • Dropping the “Devil” & building consistent winning seasons. 
  • Iconic Rays moments: Evan Longoria’s homer, Brosseau vs. Chapman, Arozarena’s postseason magic. 
  • Sternberg’s legacy— building success on a budget & supports local causes
• Meet the new leadership: 
  • Spotlight on Ken Babby, incoming Rays CEO with a track record in minor league rebranding (Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, Akron RubberDucks).
  • Babby’s community-driven philosophy: family fun, affordable entertainment, and building strong local ties.Success stories: attendance boosts, stadium upgrades, and stronger fan connections.
• What’s next for the Rays: 
  • Potential rebranding and stadium renovations?
  • Immediate challenges facing new ownership, including stadium location decisions. 
  • How Babby’s experience and family sports background may help reshape the franchise & increase attendance
• Stadium talk with fresh perspective: 
  • Mark shares insights from meeting Janet Marie Smith (Orioles, Dodgers, Camden Yards architect) and her Yale architecture students studying stadium design along the Gulf Coast 
  • Review of past Rays stadium proposals—Suncoast Dome, Al Lang concepts, Gas Plant, Ybor visions, GASWORX,and more. 
  • Community-first design trends: mixed-use neighborhoods, retail, walkable spaces, and unique local character.
• Looking ahead: 
  • We’re feeling positive vibes from the Rays’ new leadership 
  • Looking forward to see the imprint they may make on the Rays team culture and stadium development.
  • Why patience and optimism are key as ownership takes its first steps

Key Quote:

"Families and corporate groups come to the games for the memories, not just for the wins and losses. It's about affordable family fun, community engagement, and creating moments that last." – Fast Forward Sports Group

Listen to the full conversation for in-depth analysis, stories from Tampa baseball history, and why the Rays’ future looks both challenging and full of promise.

 You can find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark at  [e-mail] BaseballBiz on Deck, at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com 
Special Thanks to Scott Holmes for the music Stomps & Claps