Phil Terrano, Spring Training Start, Youth baseball & MLB RSN changes

Mark & Matt welcome back Phil Terrano discuss the start of baseball season, Tampa Bay Rays, youth development, travel ball, injuries & the future of the sport. Spring Training Energy in FloridaPitchers & catchers reporting & a new baseball year across Florida & ArizonaTeams arriving & fans prepare for the seasonTampa Bay Rays Fan Fest outdoors this year as finishing touches continue inside the TropRays Talk and Uniform BuzzPossible return of the Rays’ road gray uniforms w/ stingray tailTeam’s history with alternate uniforms, including Grit & Glow” Baseball in Florida: Growth and ImportanceParticipation from youth to proSpring Training & 2 MLB franchises contribute to sport’s presence Ideal stadium locations & long term regional growthSouthern-based winter league w/ existing spring training facilities?Youth Baseball Development and FLETL StoryOrigin of the Florida East Coast Travel League, FLETLBuilt to improve the experience for families, focusing on memories & value rather than profitInnovations include press conferences for kids, enhanced awards & eliminating gate feesInfluencing other organizations to elevate their offeringsPartnership with Prospect Wire to expand nationally & combine strengths across age groupsYouth Sports PhilosophyEmphasis on practice & development rather than constant tournament playEncouraging families to keep perspective about the realities of professional baseballTravel ball should be about experience, growth, and enjoymentCompetition builds confidence & life skillsCreate lasting memoriesManaging Injuries and Player HealthIncreasing injury ratesImportance of rest, strength training, & structured developmentPhil shares his son’s experience at Wellington Sports Academy MLB veterans, Devon Travis, of` Detroit Tigers & the Blue Jays and Brad Peacock of the Houston Astros are leading guiding youth at the AcademyFocus on preparing the body for long term success rather than chasing radar gun numbers.Learning proper conditioningDevon Travis' passion for the gameBusiness of Baseball and Media ChangesRegional sports networks, RSN's, shifting to MLB’s media divisionStreaming continues to reshape how fans watch gamesTelevision rights remain a major revenue driver for the sportOngoing conversation about competitive balance, payroll gaps, and future labor negotiationsThe Cost of Playing BaseballRising equipment and travel expenses can limit participationPhil discusses Stinger Sports, a company focused on providing quality gear at lower costs.Goal is to make the game more accessible for families while maintaining performance standards.Future Plans and Giving BackPhil considering launching a new charitable initiative, potentially a foundation in memory of his sister.Continued focus on community support and creating opportunities for young athletes. Find out more about Stinger Sports The BEST wood and BBCOR baseball bats, batting gloves, custom uniforms – Stinger Sports  www.stingerwoodbats.comThanks for listening to BaseballBiz On Deck - www.baseballbizondeck.com Like & subscribe to BaseballBiz On Deck.  You may also find BaseballBiz on Deck, on YouTube at iHeart Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, & at www.baseballbizondeck.com Also you can find Mat at M-A-T-G-E-R-M-A-I-N dot B Sky social.