Podcast appearances and mentions of erik neander

With the MLB Trade Deadline rapidly approaching, TKras is joined by Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander for an inside look at where Tampa Bay stands. Are the Rays actively making calls? Is anything already in motion behind the scenes? Neander discusses the club's approach to the deadline, what factors are driving potential moves, and what fans should realistically expect over the coming days. Plus, hear his thoughts on the current state of the team, balancing the present with the future, and how the front office navigates one of the busiest weeks of the baseball calendar.

With the MLB Trade Deadline rapidly approaching, TKras breaks down the reality facing the Tampa Bay Rays and why some of Erik Neander's recent comments have been misunderstood by fans. What did the Rays' President of Baseball Operations actually mean, and how should fans interpret the team's approach? TKras shares what he's hearing from inside the organization, explains what's fact versus speculation, and discusses what it all means as Tampa Bay weighs its options ahead of one of the biggest deadlines of the season.

The Tampa Bay Rays have earned their spot atop the AL East—but the job isn't finished. Chris Mathis explains why a four-game lead over the Yankees shouldn't lull the Rays into playing it safe at the MLB Trade Deadline. With Aaron Judge expected back for New York, the division is far from decided, and Tampa Bay can't assume its current roster is enough to finish the job. Chris makes the case that Erik Neander needs to be aggressive by adding at least one impact bat and one reliable pitcher to strengthen an already talented roster. The Rays have five All-Stars, the confidence of a first-place club, and a golden opportunity to capture the AL East. Standing pat—or making moves that don't truly improve the team—would be a missed opportunity for one of the most complete Rays teams in recent memory. If the Rays believe they're legitimate contenders, it's time to prove it at the trade deadline.

Tampa Bay Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander joins *The Drive with TKras* to discuss one of the biggest weekends of the season at Tropicana Field. Neander reflects on Evan Longoria's lasting impact on the franchise ahead of **Longoria Legacy Weekend**, what the celebration means to the organization, and why Longo's influence continues to shape the Rays today. Plus, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching, Neander addresses the latest trade rumors surrounding Tampa Bay, discusses the club's approach as the postseason race heats up, and provides key injury updates on several players. Don't miss this wide-ranging conversation covering the Rays' past, present, and their push toward October baseball.

TKras is joined by Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander for an in-depth conversation covering every major storyline surrounding the club. Neander discusses Junior Caminero's historic power surge, why the organization believes he's a cornerstone player for years to come, and how the Rays are committed to maximizing both his development and long-term success. The interview also covers the progress of Shane McClanahan, the careful management of Drew Rasmussen, the latest on Gavin Lux and Jake Fraley, the strength of the Rays' farm system, early trade deadline conversations, and why this clubhouse may be one of the most connected groups Tampa Bay has ever assembled.

The MLB Trade Deadline is fast approaching, and the Rays have decisions to make. On this episode of *The Drive with TKras*, we break down the biggest needs for Tampa Bay and examine the most realistic trade targets who could help push the Rays into serious postseason contention. From impact bats to bullpen reinforcements and starting pitching depth, who fits the Rays' blueprint? More importantly, who is **THE** player Erik Neander should go all-in to acquire before the deadline? TKras makes his case for the one move that could change the outlook of Tampa Bay's season, while also discussing other intriguing names that could be on the Rays' radar. If the Rays are going to make a run in October, it all starts with what they do before the trade deadline. Who should they target? Who's worth the price? TKras has the answers on this edition of *The Drive with TKras*.

With the Rays navigating another stretch of injuries, Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander explains why organizational depth remains one of Tampa Bay's greatest strengths. He gives an update on several injured players working their way back and previews what the upcoming trip out west could mean for the club's playoff aspirations. You're not going to want to miss this interview with Erik Neander!

**Podcast Description:** The trade deadline is approaching, and the Tampa Bay Rays are once again positioned to make a move that could shape their postseason chances. On this episode of *The Drive with TKras*, we break down exactly what the Rays should be looking for as the deadline nears. Is another power bat the biggest need? Should Tampa Bay prioritize bullpen help, rotation depth, or an impact player who can transform the lineup? We examine the most realistic trade targets across Major League Baseball, identify teams likely to become sellers, and discuss which players fit the Rays' unique approach to roster building. From proven veterans to under-the-radar value additions, we explore the names that could help push Tampa Bay from contender to championship threat. Plus, we analyze what the Rays can afford to give up, which prospects are untouchable, and how Erik Neander and the front office may approach the market compared to previous deadlines. If you're wondering who the Rays should target, what positions need the most help, and what a winning deadline strategy looks like, this is the episode for you. **Tune in to *The Drive with TKras* for a deep dive into the Rays' biggest trade deadline decisions and the players who could help bring October baseball back to Tampa Bay.**

Tkras is joined by Ryan Pepiot and Erik Neander for a fun and insightful conversation about Rays baseball, the team's success, and the atmosphere surrounding the club. Along the way, the discussion turns to the fan-favorite Tarps Off crew, with Neander fielding the big question: will he ever become an honorary member?

Broadcasting from Noble Tavern, Tkras is joined by Ryan Pepiot, Erik Neander, and Ronnie Lane for a packed show centered on Rays baseball. The crew discusses Tampa Bay's recent slump, trade deadline possibilities, payroll and salary cap debates, tonight's lineup and matchup, clubhouse leadership, and the fan-favorite Tarps Off crew. Plus, Ronnie and Tkras wrap things up by digging through the week's funniest and most outrageous mailbag comments.

On this episode of *TKras on The Drive*, we're joined by Erik Neander, the architect behind the sustained success of the Tampa Bay Rays, for a wide-ranging conversation on where the team stands right now—and where it's headed next. Can the Rays keep their momentum going through the grind of a long season? We dive into the state of the roster, the latest injury updates, and which key players could be returning to make an impact down the stretch. With Tampa Bay always balancing depth, development, and durability, the health of the roster could shape everything. And of course, we get into the big question: will the Rays make a major move before the trade deadline? Erik Neander weighs in on how aggressive the front office might be, what areas could be addressed, and whether “big trade” season is on the table for a team that always finds ways to surprise.

Erik Neander, President of Baseball Operations for the Tampa Bay Rays, joined TKras on *The Drive* with some tough breaking news — pitcher Ryan Pepiot will miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing hip surgery. Neander walks us through how a situation that started as minor hip inflammation during spring training quickly escalated into a season-ending issue, and what the setback means for Pepiot's recovery and long-term outlook. We also dive into the ripple effect on the Rays' rotation. With Pepiot out, how does Tampa Bay adjust? Who steps into a bigger role, and does this change the team's approach as the season unfolds? It's an inside look at a major blow to the Rays' pitching staff and how the front office plans to navigate it moving forward.

Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander joins *The Drive with TKras* to talk all things Tampa Bay baseball as the team gears up for its upcoming series against the Twins in St. Pete. Neander discusses the current state of the roster, early-season takeaways, and how the team is approaching this matchup. From pitching strategy to lineup adjustments, he provides insight into what the Rays are focusing on as they look to build momentum. Plus, Neander touches on player development, injury updates, and what fans should be watching for during this key series at home. If you want a behind-the-scenes look at how the Rays are preparing, this is a must-listen conversation.

On this episode of The Drive with TKras, Erik Neander, President of Baseball Operations for the Tampa Bay Rays, joins the show for an in-depth conversation about the team's performance so far this season. What's stood out through the early stretch? Are there any red flags fans should be paying attention to, or is the club right where it needs to be? Neander shares insight into the Rays' strengths, areas for improvement, and how the organization evaluates its progress at this point in the year. Plus, a look ahead at a key opponent—the New York Yankees. What challenges do they present, and what should fans expect as the Rays prepare for the matchup? All that and more on The Drive with TKras. Tune in for expert analysis and behind-the-scenes perspective from one of baseball's top executives.

On this episode of The Drive, TKras is joined by Erik Neander, President of Baseball Operations for the Tampa Bay Rays, to break down the team's start to the 2026 Major League Baseball season. Neander shares insight into what's gone right, what still needs to improve, and how the organization is evaluating the early stretch of the year. From roster decisions to player development, it's a behind-the-scenes look at how the Rays are navigating the grind of a long season. Plus, a look at the refreshed feel of Tropicana Field and what fans can expect when they head to the ballpark this season.

Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander, talks Rays Baseball with TKras!

On the first official pitchers and catchers workouts of the season, Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander and Rays Manager Kevin Cash addressed the media in Port Charlotte, talking about spring training and the upcoming 2026 season.Thanks so much for listening! You can follow RTR on social media @RaysTheRoofTB and be sure subscribe to the podcast!A big shout out to our partners, SeatGeek, In The Clutch and JKS Prints! Use code RAYSTHEROOF for $20 off your first SeatGeek purchase, 10% off anytime with In The Clutch & $5 off at JKSprints.com!As always, Rays Up!

Erik Neander & Kevin Cash join the debut of Countdown to Opening Day w/ Chris, Andy, & Neil! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the end of September, Erik Neander, President of Baseball Operations for the Tampa Bay Rays, held his 2025 end-of-season press conference with the media.We have included the entire press conference for you to listen to as Neander got into his thoughts on the season as a whole and the future of the Rays, especially with new ownership coming in.Thanks so much for listening! You can follow RTR on social media @RaysTheRoofTB and be sure subscribe to the podcast!A big shout out to our partners, SeatGeek, In The Clutch and JKS Prints! Use code RAYSTHEROOF for $20 off your first SeatGeek purchase, 10% off anytime with In The Clutch & $5 off at JKSprints.com!As always, Rays Up!

⚾ Playoff PulseMat disappointment with the Brewers' and Blue Jays' postseason struggles.Super teams,  like the Dodgers —super teams kill competition and fan excitement.

Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander, sits down with media for an end-of -season press conference to discuss the year overall & to look forward to the 2026 seson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TKras had Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander on The Drive, a preview to 2026 and more!

Erik Neander, Rays President of Baseball Operations, joined TKras to recap the week and look ahead to 2026

Rays Season Wrap-Up RaysUpRays fall out of playoff contention but improve draft positionPhillies clinch NL East; Brewers, Dodgers, Blue Jays all in tight division racesGlass-half-full outlook as younger players gain valuable experience under pressureSpotlight on Montgomery Biscuits in the Southern League playoffsHomer Bush Jr., Ledbetter, Brody Hopkins, Will Simpson, and TJ NicholsRays and Brewers' player development approaches Rays' history of sending prospects to Australia's Perth Heat New Perth Heat manager Perry Roth, formerly with the River Dogs & Hot RodsRays who benefited from ABL: Kiermaier, Caminero, Brosseau Electric Puerto Rican Heritage Night atmosphereSurrounded by Blue Jays fans behind Visitors' dugoutEase of parking and access tSpotting Kevin KiermaierRays co-presidents, Auld & Silverman moving into advisory rolesRob Manfred's “clean slate” for the stadium hunt Evaluating Erik Neander's tenure and future Erik could lead the Rays to their first World Series  Yandy Díaz's consistent excellenceBalancing young talent - Trey Morgan, Jonathan Aranda & others in the lineupNeed to find power bats & maintaining defensive standards Trade for controllable players vs risky free-agent signingsRyan Pepiot's recent struggles with control and late-season fatigue. Comparing his development path to Chris Archer's early yearsWhy Mat still sees Cy Young potential and a future Rays rotation core with Shane Baz and Drew RasmussenUpcoming Guests - authors Lou Schiff and Jane Leavy CBA negotiations - baseball's financial landscape is rapidly changingReflecting on the Mets' late-season collapseBlake Snell Trade Tree - Rays add Cole Wilcox to the 40-man rostero   How Wilcox's shift from starter to reliever revived his careero   What his AAA stats suggest about his future bullpen roleo   The winding path of Isiah Kiner-Falefao   Chandler Simpson's wall-robbing catch and his underrated offensive growtho   Finalized trade sending Jose Caballero to Yankees for Marshall Tooleo   Outfield depth rising: Brailer Guerrero, Theo Gillen, Brenner Summerhill, Colton Ledbetter, Homer Bush Jr.Tropicana Field & Stadium - Roof repairs progressing; turf replacement nexto   Q&A on 2007 Hillsborough County survey on stadium location and fundingo   Retractable roof debate and evolving fan expectationsBright Spots & Looking Aheado   Rays pitching pipeline: Ian Seymour, Joe Boyle, and moreo   Nick Fortes behind the plate as a key additiono   A system stacked with talent as new ownership arrivesStadium & Tropicana Field UpdatesRoof repairs underway; new turf installation planned for spring training.2007 Hillsborough County survey results on stadium location and funding revealed.League & Ownership LandscapeMat hints at changing financial structure and upcoming CBA negotiationsRays' $1.7B sale despite uncertain stadium future shows franchise value growth. Fan interference stories from recent games.Will Bill & Ted and/or Jimmy Kimmel be future guests or are we just “Waiting for Godot”You can find Mat at @matgermain.bsky.social or reach Mark at  baseballbizondeck@gmail.com BaseballBiz on Deck, at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com Special Thanks to Scott Holmes for the music Stomps & Claps

Erik Neander joined TKras on a Friday to talk all things Rays Baseball, their winning ways of late, and more on the roster change tonight with Griffin Jax

Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander tells all with TKras!

Erik Neander talks Rays with TKras, what is the latest on the roster and the injury front? Sugar Shane?

Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays pitcher Ryan Pepiot, President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander, Advance Scouting/Major League Operations Coordinator Katie Mooradian & Rays Radio voice Andy Freed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TKras led off the show with Erik Neander, the Rays President of Baseball Operations. Why did the Rays make the moves that they made? Buyers or Sellers? Get here!

In the first hour of the show, TKras shared his 6 Buccaneers making a splash at Bucs training camp so far. Plus, Erik Neander of the Tampa Bay Rays joined TKras with insight on the MLB Trade Deadline and potential rumors. Get here!

In the second hour of the show, Scott Reynolds of Pewter Report joined us live! Plus, we also dissected comments from Erik Neander on the Rays and more!

Erik Neander, Rays President of Baseball Operations, joined TKras with insight on the Rays roster and the injury front, too!

In the second hour of the show, TKras continued with more on the Rays, Erik Neander's comments, and breaking developments, plus, we also talked about Shane McClanahan and more!

In the final hour of The Drive, TKras had Erik Neander of The Rays on to talk breaking news on Brandon Lowe and more! Plus, TKras and Chris Mathis got into your hateful comments during The Mailbag!

In the show's first hour, TKras spoke with Erik Neander of the Rays, breaking news on Brandon Lowe and more. Plus, what is TKras speculating about Week One for the Bucs?

Erik Neander, Rays President of Baseball Operations, joined TKras with the latest on the Rays, plus BREAKING NEWS on Brandon Lowe. Will they make more moves?

In the second hour of the show, TKras led things off with Brian Anderson who shared the latest on the Rays, concerns with the bullpen, and more! Plus, we played Fill in the Blank and rumors surrounding Erik Neander of the Tampa Bay Rays!

In the last hour of The Drive, TKras spoke with ESPN Tim Kurkjian to get the latest on the Rays and what YOUR expectation of the Rays should be. Plus, we shared comments made by Erik Neander of the Tampa Bay Rays!

On Friday, Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander, joined TKras to talk about Wander Franco's conviction, Shane McClanahan's rehab, and more!

In Friday's opening hour, TKras discussed the fallout of the Wander Franco conviction for the Tampa Bay Rays. Plus, we got updates LIVE from Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander. Shane McClanahan is doing what next week?

Erik Neander, Rays President of Baseball Operations, joined TKras with developments on the Rays injury front. Get here!

In Friday's opening hour, TKras reacted to the tough scene for Hunter Bigge last night in Tampa, plus, Erik Neander provided breaking updates on the Rays injury front. Get here!

In the show's second hour, TKras reacted to big updates from Erik Neander on the Rays, plus what does this weekend hold for us in the world of sports. TKras shares a bold take!

New ownership of the Tampa Bay Rays on the horizonFlorida Developer, Patrick Zalupski – Jacksonville Real Estate Developer,  Dream Finders Homes  Ken Babby  - Founder & CEO, Fast Forward Sports Group & Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp – Triple A team for the Miami Marlins & the Akron RubberDucks – Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardiansan informed and experienced mind to the ownership & front office2 business guys from New York invested in 2 teams years agoJeffrey Loria purchased Marlins for $160 million funded in part by selling the Expos for $120 million to MLB Loria built a Marlins stadium and later sells the team for $1.2 billionStu Sternberg bought the Rays for $200 million did not build a stadium & is now selling the Rays for $1.7 billion. Stu's deal will be more profitable than what Loria got for the MarlinsTampa Mayor, Jane Castor supportive of Rays in TampaCould City of Tampa aid new owners with reduced rates for services & lighter taxesNaming rights of the new stadium could cover many of the costs$1.7 billion a smidge more than the Orioles purchase price2 Expansion teams on the horizon with a $2 billion price tag per teamWill Stu become part of the Montreal Ownership Group Mat's "tip of the hat" to Stu Stu's Rays won the fifth most games in MLB during his tenure while building 1.5 billion in equityWhat will the front office look like without Stu at the helmReflect on Anthopoulos after new ownership with the Toronto Blue JaysWill Erik Neander still govern the team with new ownershipWill the new owners work with St. Pete on the Trop leaseIs Ybor Rays stadium possible see - Developer Darryl Shaw, Tampa Bay Sun unveil Ybor Harbor soccer stadium plan https://bit.ly/40fUn5FRangers & Royals new owners have been willing to spend money, how will the new owners spend with the RaysPart of the Rays value is a strong group of young players in the farm systemHow do you transfer Wander Franco's contract to the new owners with this saleJunior Caminero - will the new Rays owners develop a strong contract with him.Will Grit & Glow go to be replaced with Ybor Cigars & Cuban SandwichesMarch to the World Series with new music “Stomps & Claps”Rays have been strong over the last 25 gamesAll-Star candidates for the Rays, Jonathan Aranda & Brandon Lowewill the new owners offer an extended contraction Jonathan Aranda Rafael Devers traded to the Giants – what does it mean – where is the valueBoston still has Alex BregmanRed Sox fans on Blue Sky are upset with the Devers moveBoston fans need to reflect on how this trade increases their pitching depth with the 2 new prospects. Shane Baz & Tyler Glasnow trade exampleDevers & Adames teaming up together with the GiantsRafael Devers trade – Big Papi's takeHow did Alex Cora work with Devers prior to this tradeComing back, Shane McClanahan, Richie Palacios, Ha-Seong Kim & Nate LavenderRob Manfred need Rays deal to go through to start building an MLB expansionAll Rays minor league affiliates are above 500If you enjoyed this show, go ahead like and subscribe to BaseballBiz On Deck. 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  Baseball Biz on Deck dot B Sky Social. You may also find BaseballBiz on Deck, at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at www.baseballbizOnDeck.com Special Thanks to Scott Holmes for the music Stomps & Claps & to Helen Glennon for her shared news discovery with the show

Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays outfielder Chandler Simpson, President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander, Director of Promotions Stephon Thomas, FanDuel Sports reporter Ryan Bass. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mat's World Series Dream Mark Thanks the USAWNT players who were on the show to discuss bullying young girls in baseballRays lose Marlins seriesRays feeling like Super Dave on a Roller Coaster Marlins, Cal Quantrill pitches the first Immaculate Inning of the year. 9 pitches – 9 strikesPedro Martinez style Immaculate Inning would include 1 Hit By PitchRays Offense recently has been lacking with some of the younger playersVeterans Brandon Lowe & Yandy Diaz have put up more offensivelyTaylor Walls and men left on base LOBCurtis Mead offense is firing up – broke out of .98 yesterday with 3 AB's 2 Hits & 1 HR against the AstrosRays had 7 of 9 players with hits against the Astros in Wednesday's gameBen Rortvedt – flatline at bat – who could be Rays 2nd catcherKevin Cash is handcuffed with the lineup he has todayElements of a great game – 2 Home Runs back to back with Josh Lowe & Brandon Lowe, Manager ejection with Kevin CashCash's ejection as he questions Astros & Umpires long it took for Astros to make an appealDo manager ejections motivate the team playersTaj Bradley had a solid outing & had good communication with the catcherRyan Pepiot is also showing more promiseLooking forward to Shane McClanahan & Ha-Seong Kim return to the team. Who will be sent down when they returnWill there be room for Johnny DeLuca to return to RaysFCL Rays rehabbing expect a Roster Crunch with the RaysIsaac Paredes returns as an Astro to hit Home Runs against the RaysMat breaks down YOY increase in growing attendance – Mets increase of 289,000 more fans. Detroit Tigers, Dodgers and Athletics follow behind the MetsTotal of 372,000 more fans this year in attendance across MLBCity Connect – Wallet Connect - A lot of love and sales for the game including merchandiseMat recommends Grit & Glow lighting at the new stadium for RaysRivalry weekend numbersJuan Soto and the Yankees show their backs to Soto in the outfieldSubway Series Streaming - registering as the third (May 17th) and fourth (May 16th) most-watched games ever on MLB.TV.merchandise sales increased +45% during Rivalry WeekendTampa Bay Rays Hall of Fame – Evan Longoria will be joining Wade Boggs, Fred McGriff, Don Zimmer, Dave WillsMark would add Erik Neander & Joe Maddon to the Rays Hall of Fame.How fans may see players and coaches who move to another teamRays are 3 games out of a Wild Card spot How many wins will the addition of Shane McClanahan & Ha-Seong KimOrioles traded away so much talent it has hurt their ability to winThe value of Brandon Hyde beyond the O'sA look back at the Liberatore– Arozarena tradeJust a reminder, if you enjoyed this show, go ahead like and subscribe to BaseballBiz On Deck. 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  Baseball Biz on Deck dot B Sky Social. You may also find Baseball Biz on Deck, at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and at baseball biz on deck dot comSpecial Thanks to XTaKe-R-U-X for the music Rocking Forward, 

Erik Neander, Kevin Cash, Matt Silverman & Brian Auld join the debut of Countdown to Opening Day w/ Chris, Andy, & Neil To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erik Neander sits down with media for a 2024 end-of-season press conference to discuss the year overall and to look forward to 2025. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays shortstop Taylor Walls, President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander, Applied Physiologist Jillian Hawkins & Rays broadcaster Dewayne Staats. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's a whirlwind trade deadline for Erik Neander & the Rays, who have sent Arozarena/Eflin/Adam/Paredes...