ST. PETERSBURG, FL — The call of a home run by the home team!
His dedication to the sport is unparalleled, and his career has spanned nearly 50 years, and over 7,000 Major League Baseball games. Since the Tampa Bay Rays joined the American League in 1998, he has been their passionate and dedicated play-by-play announcer, a role he continues to excel in.
The Voice of Rays Baseball: Dewayne Staats – Image Credit: MLB
His baseball (playing) career was brief, but he said, “my claim to fame was throwing a nine inning no-hitter while striking out 18 and losing the game.” He had aspirations of making it to the big leagues, but after playing with a young man that he called a “manchild” who was a tremendous player who did not draw any attention, he figured he had no choice!
While still in college, he began announcing professional baseball with the Triple-A Oklahoma City 89ers of the American Association. After graduation, he became the sports director for a TV station in St. Louis. Before joining the Rays, he worked for the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, and ESPN.
When asked who encouraged him most, he mentioned Gene Elston, Harry Caray, and Jack Buck.
Tropicana Field – Image Credit: MLB
Alongside former MLB player Brian Anderson (fondly known as BA), he not only broadcasts games but is the master of ceremonies at many Rays events, including induction ceremonies into the Rays Hall of Fame and other special events. His game preparation includes working at his home office researching the players on the visiting team for the next game.
More than just a sports figure, he and his wife Carla have made a significant impact through their non-profit foundation, Warriors At Rast. This foundation provides ‘equine therapy’ to law enforcement and first responders, offering stress relieving sessions with horses trained to act like ‘service dogs.’ Their dedication to this cause is truly admirable.
Dewayne Staats working in the booth – Image Credit: MLB
He and Carla, who now own three horses, frequently visit the local farm where the horses are stabled to assist in their grooming and maintenance.
When is retirement for Dewayne Staats, voice of the Tampa Bay Rays?
In his words, it is “difficult to speculate” because he loves what he does.
Great news for Rays fans! He is the consummate professional, a pleasure to listen to, and an all-around nice guy.
Contact Joe Ferrara – Email: jaferrara@outlook.com
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