The TK Show: A Show about sports in the Bay Area [TK Show] A Conversation with Columnist Ray Ratto
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Oct 28, 2025 Ray Ratto, a veteran sports columnist known for his sharp analysis on Bay Area sports, joins the discussion. He compares Shohei Ohtani’s dominance to Barry Bonds' intimidation at the plate. The conversation dives into Buster Posey’s unconventional hiring of college coach Tony Vitello and what it could mean for the Giants. Ratto also tackles pressing NBA gambling issues, emphasizing the dangers of prop bets and calling for major league accountability. Throughout, he shares insights into the evolving landscape of sports journalism.
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Writing Through Marathon Games
- Ray Ratto described writing through an 18-inning game and the filing pressure on editors during marathon games.
- He recalled only two times with extreme deadline stress: a four-overtime Sharks playoff game and a late Dodgers-Giants doubleheader.
Ohtani Walks Evoke Bonds-Level Fear
- Shohei Ohtani being intentionally walked repeatedly mirrors Barry Bonds-era avoidance and signals extreme fear from opponents.
- Ray Ratto says those intentional passes are a crowning achievement showing pitchers have 'no way of dealing with you.'
Posey Uses Clout To Experiment
- Buster Posey's decision to hire Tony Vitello shows Posey's unique clout and willingness to experiment.
- Ratto suggests Posey has carte blanche and is using the role as a lab to try unconventional moves.