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Marc Topkin from the Tampa Bay Times joins TKras to discuss the Rays recent 3 game win streak & sweep of the Red Sox. They discuss Drew Rasmussen & his stellar last couple of starts. Nick Fortes solidifying the Catcher position, Johnny DeLuca possibly returning from his injury, Bryan Baker being an absolute stud as the Rays closer, & they preview the couple of series out West in LA. It is a phenomenal interview, that you are not going to want to miss!
**The Drive with TKras Podcast Description** The Tampa Bay Rays have been one of baseball's hottest teams, but what comes next could determine whether they're true contenders in the American League. On this episode of *The Drive with TKras*, TKras is joined by Tampa Bay Times Rays beat writer Marc Topkin to break down the Rays' recent surge, what's fueling their success, and whether this level of play is sustainable over the long haul. The two dive into the biggest storylines surrounding the club, from the pitching staff and lineup production to the players who have stepped up during the team's impressive run. Looking ahead, TKras and Topkin discuss the importance of Tampa Bay's upcoming stretch of games and what the Rays need to accomplish over their next few series to solidify their position in the playoff race. Is maintaining momentum enough, or do the Rays need to make a statement against quality opponents? And with the trade deadline approaching, what areas of the roster still need attention? Plus, Topkin shares insight from inside the clubhouse, discusses the biggest challenges facing the Rays down the stretch, and explains what he'll be watching most closely in the weeks ahead. If you're a Rays fan looking for an inside look at where this team stands and where it's headed, you won't want to miss this conversation.
Rays reporter for the Tampa Bay Times Marc Topkin joined the show to discuss the Rays strong start to the 2026 season.
In the second hour f Inside Access, the guys discuss the return of Jackson Holliday for the Orioles offense. They also talk about lazy play by the Orioles of late and are joined by Mike Bordick and Marc Topkin.
create a description for Marc Topkin, Rays Insider for The Tampa Bay Times talks Rays HOT START, the stadium saga lives on and more on the injury front!
Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker kick off today's show breaking down the Blue Jays' 5-1 loss to the Rays including Eric Lauer's issues in the first inning and how Tampa Bay shut down Toronto's bats. Marc Topkin (16:15) of the Tampa Bay Times checks in with his evaluation of the Rays' season so far. The boys ask Marc about Tampa's place in the American League East, Bryan Baker's strong 2026, the recent changes at Tropicana Field, and what Jonathan Aranda brings to the lineup. After the break (29:50), Jeff and Kevin share today's trivia question, before discussing the approach change behind Kazuma Okamoto's power surge and who the odd man out might be once Addison Barger is ready to return. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
Nick reacts to a tweet from Marc Topkin reacting to how loud the Trop was for the Cubs. This leads to a big question: Would you prefer the Transplant Fans to not be there & the seats be empty OR have your stadium filled but with mostly Transplant Fans??
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays outfielder Jake Fraley, 3rd base coach Brady Williams, Director of Game Presentation Kat Lucas, & Tampa Bay Times beat reporter Marc Topkin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
TKras is joined by Rays insider Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times on The Drive to talk all things Rays baseball. They break down what they're seeing from the team on the field right now, from early-season performance to key storylines shaping the roster. Plus, a deeper conversation about the future of Rays baseball in the Tampa Bay area—what lies ahead for the franchise, potential developments, and what it all means for fans across the bay. Insight, analysis, and everything you need to know about the Rays—don't miss this episode of The Drive.
Rick Stroud is joined by Marc Topkin, Rays Beat Writer for the Tampa Bay Times, to discuss the Rays season which begins today. They discuss the team returning to Tropicana Field this season, the new owners, changes on the roster as Brandon Lowe and Pete Fairbanks depart, new faces like Cedric Mullins and Nick Martinez, what to excpect from Shane McClanahan's return and Junior Caminero's star status after the World Baseball Classic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
⚾ Spring Training is underway for the Tampa Bay Rays! Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times joins the show to break down everything we've seen from the Rays so far this spring. From standout performances to roster battles and early storylines, what should fans be paying attention to as the season approaches? In this video, Marc Topkin discusses: • Key takeaways from Rays Spring Training so far
It's a battle of the Marks this week as Mark Skol Jr. fills in and Marc Topkin joins the show to dissect Shane McClanahan's electric return to the rotation. We cap off the episode by navigating a brutal game of sports "Would You Rather" and seeing who can sniff out the fake news in the NODPOD Gazette. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times talks Rays with TKras!
Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times talks Rays Baseball with TKras, what is ongoing, and what should you expect in 2026?
Rays reporter for the Tampa Bay Times Marc Topkin joins the show to discuss Rays offseason.
In the third hour of Inside Access, the guys discuss how different the Orioles offseason was for them in terms of aggressiveness in free agency. They also talk about the Ravens coaching staff being finalized and are joined by Marc Topkin.
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Tampa Bay Times Rays beat writer Marc Topkin to discuss spring training, ballpark renderings, the 2026 Rays Fan Fest Block Party, & more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rays writer for the Tampa Bay Times Marc Topkin joined the show to discuss the Shane Baz trade.
In the second hour of Inside Access, the guys discuss what the Orioles are truly getting in Shane Baz. They're also joined by Marc Topkin and Jacob Calvin Meyer.
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander, former outfielder Brett Phillips, Tampa Bay Times beat reporter Marc Topkin, & recently signed Cedric Mullins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marc Topkin toured the newly renovated Tropicana Field and provided details about the 2026 Rays.
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays Chief Business Officer Bill Walsh & Tampa Bay Times Rays beat writer Marc Topkin to discuss all things tickets, Tropicana Field, roster updates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times spoke with Tkras on the Rays, their new ownership group and the stadium!
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays pitcher Bryan Baker, infielder Taylor Walls, Charleston Riverdogs manager Sean Smedley, & Tampa Bay Times Rays beat reporter Marc Topkin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times joined TKras to talk all things Rays. Can they make a push?
Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times joined TKras to talk about the future of the Tampa Bay Rays, roster decisions, and more. Join us!
Post-Dispatch podcasts page: https://go.stltoday.com/0hfn43 Please consider subscribing: https://go.stltoday.com/9aigz5 During a lengthy rain delay before the finale of the Cardinals' visit to Tampa Bay, St. Louis Post-Dispatch baseball writer Derrick Goold and Tampa Bay Rays baseball writer Marc Topkin discuss transfers of power on their beats and how they contribute to a clouded forecast. In St. Louis, former Rays executive Chaim Bloom is positioned to take over as president of baseball operations in the coming month, and Topkin offers insight about the role Bloom had with the Rays, where to find his fingerprints on player development, and why he just might have the best resume possible to lead the Cardinals' front office. In Tampa Bay, the Rays are paying rent at the Yankees' spring training ballpark, George Steinbrenner Field, due to hurricana damage at Tropicana Park. The Rays feel like they're perpetually on the precipice teetertottering between having strong established roots in Tampa Bay or packing up and going to another city. New ownership may change that -- but they'll need a ballpark. They appear to have a fan base, one that owes some of its interest in baseball to the Cardinals and all the decades they spent calling St. Petersburg, Florida, home for spring training. The Best Podcast in Baseball, sponsored weekly by Closets by Design of St. Louis, is its 13th season. BPIB is a production of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, StlToday.com, and Derrick Goold.
TKras shares his take on a story put out by Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times regarding the future of the Rays front office!
Marc Topkin joins TKras to talk Rays Baseball, insight on the road trip out West, and more!
In the third hour of the show, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times joined TKras with insight on the Rays and a look ahead to the future. Plus, we also shared our Good, Bad & Ugly from over the weekend and more out of the NFL!
TKras spoke with Marc Topkin to get the latest on the trades made at the MLB Trade Deadline. Get here!
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays DH/first baseman Yandy Diaz, Major League Field Coordinator Tomas Francisco, pitching prospect Brody Hopkins, & Tampa Bay Times Rays beat reporter Marc Topkin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marc Topkin joined TKras with insight on the Rays ahead of the MLB trade deadline. What do you think?
In the second hour, TKras talked with Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, plus more on the passing of Hulk Hogan, too
On Monday, Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times joined TKras to talk a little Rays Baseball, and what is the plan for those injured?
Rick Stroud is joined by Tampa Bay Times Rays Beat Writer Marc Topkin to discuss how the Rays became the hottest team in baseball, the development of players like Jonathan Aranda and Junior Caminero, the starting pitching and what to do with Taj Bradley and when can you expect to see Shane McClanahan and Ha-Seong Kim play. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are back on the airwaves following MLSE President and CEO Keith Pelley's press conference. After sharing their takeaways, the boys dive into the Blue Jays' sweep of the San Diego Padres! They chat about the keys that lifted Toronto past the Friars, John Schneider's best-managed series of the season, what to make of Bo Bichette's 2025 at the plate, and Bowden Francis' identity as a starter. Later on, Marc Topkin (28:08) of the Tampa Bay Times checks in on the Rays ahead of their upcoming series against the Blue Jays. He shares the state of affairs at the team's temporary home at George M. Steinbrenner Field, who needs to step up offensively, the quality pieces in the bullpen, and the outlook for a new stadium.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays starting pitcher Shane Baz, Assistant Hitting Coach Brady North, Director of Game Presentation Kat Lucas, & Tampa Bay Times beat reporter Marc Topkin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rick Stroud is joined by Tampa Bay Times Rays Beat Writer Marc Topkin to preview today's Opening Day for the Rays and this season. They discuss the pitching staff, Shane McClanahan's injury, Danny Jansen, Junior Caminero, the outfield and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The 2025 season is just days away, so we had to deliver perhaps our biggest season preview podcast to date! Marc Topkin, Rays beat writer for the Tampa Bay Times, joined us for the first time to give his thoughts on the team and what to expect in Tampa over the next several months!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 sponsors, SeatGeek, In The Clutch and 1771 Designs! Use code RAYSTHEROOF for $20 off your first SeatGeek purchase of $50 or more and In The Clutch for 10% off at checkout. Use code RaysTheRoof with 1771 Designs for 15% off at checkout!As always, Rays Up!
Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick on the Rays starting 1 week from today as our own Marc Topkin goes on the IL and quarterback news around the NFL as JJ McCarthy looks to be the starter in Minnesota. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker step into the box on Friday's edition of Blair and Barker with a promising update on Max Scherzer's thumb injury, before sifting through today's Blue Jays lineup. Manager John Schneider (15:56) joins the guys to discuss the latest on Scherzer, before getting into how Bowden Francis can build off of his strong second half of 2024, Yariel Rodriguez' form this spring, and how Will Wagner is fitting in at third base. John also sheds light on the plan leading up to Opening Day, how he wants his team to utilize the Automatic Ball-Strike system, the general reception of ABS from umpires, and who he envisions batting clean-up. Later, Marc Topkin (33:27) of the Tampa Bay Times checks in on Rays as they gear up to play the 2025 season from George Steinbrenner Field. Marc looks into how the minor league park could impact the team's offensive presence, the "big three" in Tampa's lineup, Shane McClanahan's status, and how former Jay Danny Jansen is fitting in. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
Tim Kurkjian and Buster catch up in-person at Spring Training in Florida. They discuss Paul Skenes' new pitch, moving parts in Red Sox camp, Alex Bregman integrating into the team, Juan Soto's influence in the Mets clubhouse, Felix Bautista's return to the Orioles, and what Nolan Arenado told Tim about his situation with the Cardinals. Then, Jeff Brantley previews the Reds and Marc Topkin previews the Rays. Later, Sarah Langs runs into her Seattle-based best friend, and plays The Numbers Game. CALL THE SHOW: 406-404-8460 EMAIL THE SHOW: BleacherTweets@gmail.com REACH OUT ON X: #BLEACHERTWEETS 8:57 Tim Kurkjian 24:57 Jeff Brantley previews the Reds 32:17 Marc Topkin previews the Rays 36:58 Sarah Langs 41:52 Bleacher Tweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Tim Kurkjian and Buster catch up in-person at Spring Training in Florida. They discuss Paul Skenes' new pitch, moving parts in Red Sox camp, Alex Bregman integrating into the team, Juan Soto's influence in the Mets clubhouse, Felix Bautista's return to the Orioles, and what Nolan Arenado told Tim about his situation with the Cardinals. Then, Jeff Brantley previews the Reds and Marc Topkin previews the Rays. Later, Sarah Langs runs into her Seattle-based best friend, and plays The Numbers Game. CALL THE SHOW: 406-404-8460 EMAIL THE SHOW: BleacherTweets@gmail.com REACH OUT ON X: #BLEACHERTWEETS 8:57 Tim Kurkjian 24:57 Jeff Brantley previews the Reds 32:17 Marc Topkin previews the Rays 36:58 Sarah Langs 41:52 Bleacher Tweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Tampa Bay Times beat writer Marc Topkin to discuss Drew Rasmussen's extension, arbitration, Fan Fest, and more! 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
Rick Stroud is joined by Tampa Bay Times Rays Beat Writer Marc Topkin to discuss the latest on the Pinellas County Commission delaying the stadium vote again as the the team is calling for new terms due to cost overruns because of delays. Plus the Rays will play at Steinbrenner Field this season and how that, and an election, plays into the the Commission's decision. Then the Rays traded Jose Siri to the Mets for a relief pitcher. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The southeast United States was impacted heavily by two hurricanes in October 2024. Hurricane Helene and Milton affected lives and property in many states, including Florida. On October 9th, Hurricane Milton destroyed the fiberglass roof of the ballpark this month, leaving it open to the elements. With the Rays set to open the season at home on March 27, there's unlikely time to put on a new roof. Adding to the issue is a plan for a new ballpark, tentatively scheduled to open in 2028. That begs the question, why repair the Trop just to tear it down? If the Rays cannot play there in 2025, where could they play? Tampa Bay Times reporter Marc Topkin joined the podcast to discuss the facts of the situation and present all the options for the baseball team. Topkin has covered the Rays for the Tampa Bay Times (formerly St. Petersburg Times) and http://tampabay.com since the very beginning. He offers a unique perspective on the problem facing the ballclub and has insight as to what options the team actually has and why. Disclaimer: This conversation is about a sports topic and it is not intended to put the needs of a baseball team ahead of the numerous people who have been impacted by both hurricanes. Donate to the American Red Cross here: https://www.redcross.org/
The Tampa Bay Rays Tropicana Field home saw its roof ripped off during landfall of Hurricane Milton. That leaves a lot of questions and very few clear answers about what's going to happen for the Rays for 2025 and beyond. To get a sense of what could happen, Baseball America's Matt Eddy and JJ Cooper talked with special guest Marc Topkin, BA's Rays correspondent and the beat writer for the Rays for the Tampa Bay Times.In this podcast, Topkin explains what happened, what are the remaining unknowns and the possible options for where the Rays could play. Topkin in his reporting has already spelled out that the Rays know they won't be back at the Trop for Opening Day 2025.To read more about this situation, here's Topkin's very detailed story.Our Sponsors:* Check out T-Mobile: www.t-mobile.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/baseball-america/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The southeast United States was impacted heavily by two hurricanes in October 2024. Hurricane Helene and Milton affected lives and property in many states, including Florida. On October 9th, Hurricane Milton destroyed the fiberglass roof of the ballpark this month, leaving it open to the elements. With the Rays set to open the season at home on March 27, there's unlikely time to put on a new roof. Adding to the issue is a plan for a new ballpark, tentatively scheduled to open in 2028. That begs the question, why repair the Trop just to tear it down? If the Rays cannot play there in 2025, where could they play? Tampa Bay Times reporter Marc Topkin joined the podcast to discuss the facts of the situation and present all the options for the baseball team. Topkin has covered the Rays for the Tampa Bay Times (formerly St. Petersburg Times) and http://tampabay.com since the very beginning. He offers a unique perspective on the problem facing the ballclub and has insight as to what options the team actually has and why. Disclaimer: This conversation is about a sports topic and it is not intended to put the needs of a baseball team ahead of the numerous people who have been impacted by both hurricanes. Donate to the American Red Cross here: https://www.redcross.org/
Chris Adams-Wall is joined by Rays pitcher Ryan Pepiot, Vice President & Assistant General Manager Chanda Lawdermilk, Spanish radio broadcaster Enrique Oliu & Tampa Bay Times beat reporter Marc Topkin. 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