CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Ken Babby was named Chief Executive Officer of the Tampa Bay Rays in October 2025. A native of Potomac, Maryland, Babby is the founder of Fast Forward Sports Group and owner of the Akron RubberDucks (AA affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians) and Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (AAA affiliate of the Miami Marlins). He is recognized for his leadership in sports business innovation and community-focused organizational growth.
Before joining the Rays, Babby spent 13 years with The Washington Post, rising from a summer intern to Chief Revenue Officer of Washington Post Media and General Manager of Washington Post Digital. He oversaw $500 million in annual advertising revenue and led the company’s transition into the digital era, managing all aspects of its digital, mobile and video operations.
Since founding Fast Forward Sports Group in 2012, Babby has revitalized two Minor League Baseball franchises, earning national recognition for record attendance growth, award-winning fan experiences and community impact. His work has been honored with Sports Business Journal’s “Forty Under 40” recognition in 2016 and the EY Entrepreneur of the Year® Award for the Northeast Ohio region in 2017.
Babby serves on numerous boards in Northeast Ohio and Northeast Florida, including Baptist Hospitals of Florida, the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce, and the boards of trustees for Wheaton College and Jacksonville University. He has a two-fold mission: to create a memorable, unique, affordable and enjoyable fan experience, and maximize the opportunity to create change in the community through charitable, wellness and education initiatives.
Babby earned his bachelor’s degree from Wheaton College (MA) and his MBA from Johns Hopkins University. He now lives in Tampa with his wife, Liz, and son, Josh.