Rays debut "Prospect Spotlight" series with Neil Solondz

The Rays debuted a new video series this month, called Prospect Spotlight, which combines Neil Solondz's interviewing mastery with video access to players and staff we otherwise might get very little insight.

In the first edition, Neil interviews GM Matt Silverman regarding the multiple moves made in the off-season, has a long and worthwhile sit-down with prospect Mikie Mahtook, and then gleans some insight from Mitch Lukevics on "The Rays Way" in the minor league system.

"We're really excited about this," Neil told me about the series. "Having spent eight years with Durham and 12 years in the minors, there are some great stories to tell that I'm sure will excite Rays fans about the organization's prospects."

There isn't a set number of shows, but the hope is for the series to roll out new episodes on a monthly basis. I'm looking forward to it.

Part of the joy in watching baseball for a 162 game season is growing to know the players. It's what makes the trade of guys like David Price or Ben Zobrist so painful as a fan. The more we can know the staff and prospects along the way, the quicker I think we'll all appreciate them as people and as baseball players for our favorite team.

Tampa Bay baseball is not as media saturated as some other markets, but the Rays have made several strides in the last few years to give more and more access to us the fanbase -- including audio streaming through Rays Radio, and video clips for Spring Training games unable to be televised.

Prospect Spotlight continues in that trend, and I'm rather grateful.