A Q&A with Ken Babby on Opening Day, fans and what’s next for a new ballpark

While the Tampa Bay Rays are in the midst of discussions to establish the team’s forever home through a proposed world-class ballpark and educational mixed-use district — one expected to generate billions in economic impact and create a transformational opportunity for Hillsborough College — attention this week turns back to Tropicana Field as the Rays return for Opening Day.

Ahead of the first pitch, I sat down with Rays Chief Executive Office and Partner, Ken Babby not only to talk about Opening Day and the 2026 season, but also to get to know him on a more personal level. From his perspective on the team’s future to his favorite baseball memories, Babby shared what this moment means for the organization, the community, and for him as he begins his first season leading the Rays.

Q: What does it mean to be back at Tropicana Field for Opening Day?

Babby: Opening Day in baseball is different than in any other sport. It’s just better. There are many reasons why. One of them is the symbolism of renewal and optimism — a new team, new season, winter is over, the weather is great, baseball is back. For those of us that work in baseball, today is our “New Year’s Day.” All of that will take on an entirely different meaning with our return Monday to Tropicana Field. We’re back. That’s due to the leadership in St. Petersburg and the resiliency and spirit of our entire community. There will be no first pitch in all of baseball this season as meaningful as ours on Monday.  

Q: This is the new ownership group’s first season. How will things be different, and what can fans expect?

Babby: First, our group is honored to serve as stewards of the Tampa Bay Rays. Our priority is to serve our fans and the community. We have an obligation to the players and staff at every level of our system to put them in a position to succeed, and we are fully committed to that mission. That, in turn, will benefit our partners and fans, and every interest in between. A new ballpark solution is important to the overall equation, and we are determined to work with our community to deliver an outcome that is a win for everyone. Fans can expect our organization to be determined, accountable and accessible, as they should.

Q: On a more personal note, what is your favorite baseball memory?

Babby: Growing up, my dad (Lon Babby) was the General Counsel for the Baltimore Orioles. I had the opportunity to learn the game from some of the very best. One day, at Oriole Park and Camden Yards, I asked Orioles Hall of Famer and legend Frank Robinson, sitting in the Owner’s Box—“What’s the hit and run?” Mr. Robinson proceeded to use the shrimp cocktail he was eating and set up a full diamond on his napkin using shrimp shells. He put the runners in motion and explained to me the hit and run. To look back and realize I learned the intricacies of the game from one of the best to ever play it? That’s priceless.  

Q: What would your walk-up song be?

Babby: Living in Fast Forward, Kenny Chesney.

Q: Every baseball fan has their routines. Do you have a game day ritual or any superstitions?

Babby: Early morning workouts, reading of daily box scores and constantly learning. Baseball presents the ultimate opportunity to learn. Every time you come to the ballpark you see and learn something different.  

Q: And when you’re on the road, is there a favorite away ballpark that stands out to you?

Babby: There are so many great ballparks. For me the great ballparks reflect the city they serve. When you are in Pittsburgh at PNC Park, you know you are in Pittsburgh. The charm of Wrigley and Fenway are classics. Baltimore will always hold a special place in my heart. 

Q: As exciting as this season is, there’s also a lot of attention on the team’s long-term future. How do you balance both?

Babby: It’s a great question, and the answer is that both matter. Our focus right now is on delivering a great experience for our fans and players this season, while also working toward a long-term vision that positions the Rays and this region for success for decades to come.

What makes this opportunity so unique is that it’s about much more than baseball. Our partnership with Hillsborough College is incredibly exciting because it allows us to think bigger about impact. We’re talking about modernizing campus facilities, creating meaningful internship pipelines, and connecting students directly to career opportunities in industries that will be part of this new district. It’s about building real pathways from education to employment, right here in Tampa Bay.

When you combine that with a vibrant, mixed-use district, you’re creating an environment where students, businesses, and the community can all benefit. So while we’re focused on this season, we’re equally focused on getting this right for the future, because the potential here is truly transformational for Hillsborough College, for our fans, and for the entire region. We are here and working around the clock to realize something uniquely special for our community.