The Rays are in the midst of one of their most successful seasons. As the road trip continues at “The Trop”, we sit down exclusively at The Crawfish Boxes with a familiar face and friend, the one and only Dewayne Staats. He’s called over 7,000 games and has been with Tampa Bay since their inception back in 1998.
Q: How much have the Rays benefited this season being pushed in their divisional race by New York?
A: I actually think the Yankees benefit from being pushed by the Rays. Regardless of how the race ends, I really think this club has been focused on its own performance: self critical, self pushed, self accountable. It very well may come down to the final week in the Bronx.
Q: This upcoming weekend should feature some quality baseball from both sides who each are expected to reach and play significant games in October. What do you expect this weekend?
A: Astros are a test every series they play. The Rays play the schedule one series and one game at a time. There is plenty of respect for the Astros talent, which serves as a motivation for the Rays.
Q: Are there any weaknesses on this Rays club beyond starting shortstop?
A: This roster has been really interesting as and perhaps a throwback a decade or two ago. Not just home runs and strikeouts, but a roster depending on a variety of baseball talents. The top three or four hitters in the lineup sport extra base hit power/production. Beyond that is a ‘manufacturing’ of runs utilizing a variety of skills including speed, moving runners, being smart and aggressive. Like most teams, overcoming injuries is always present. Athleticism and versatility has helped this team.
Q: Finally, what would say to Houstonians who grew up with you in their living rooms back in the 70’s & 80’s calling Astros Games?
A: My years in Houston were a dream come true. I was a Colt45/ Astro fan growing up in the Midwest listening to Gene Elston. Gene answered my letters and was a major figure in me pursuing a Major League Baseball career. He was a very special force in my life. My daughters were born in Houston. We own a place there as well as Florida, and still have great family and friends there including Todd Kalas.