iHeartMedia Tampa Bay and WDAE announced changes to its programming today. Beginning March 28, WDAE’s Ronnie Lane will take on a new role as host of the Tampa Bay Rays pre-game show “The Inside Pitch.” As he takes on this new role, he will step away from The Ronnie & TKras Show, ending its nine-year run. Co-host Tom Krasniqi will host an all-new sports program, maintaining the afternoon drive slot.
“We couldn’t be more excited for Ronnie and Tom as they embark on their new opportunities at WDAE,” said Program Director John Mamola in a release. “These programs promise fresh content and compelling, engaging experiences for our listeners. We will continue the legacy of high performance the hosts built as a duo and the voice of Tampa Bay sports fanatics everywhere.”
Lane will also continue his seasonal hosting duties with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers radio network.
Krasniqi will remain in the same timeslot, working on a new program currently in development. Executive Produced by Chris Mathis, the new program will air every weekday afternoon from 3pm-7pm ET. The yet-to-be named show will be the lead in to WDAE’s evening play-by-play programming.
The announcement was made live on their show followed by an appearance from PD John Mamola. “November 3rd, 2014 was our first show right here on this here radio station in the 9 a.m. to Noon hour,” Krasniqi said. “…Then a couple of years later we moved to morning drive and then, of course, a couple of years ago they moved us to afternoon drive.”
In making the announcement, Lane said, “Here’s the thing, I’ve always been nuts about baseball… This was something I have wanted to do. They have been looking for a dedicated host for that particular show and that gives you an opportunity to get even more creative with what you want to do in afternoon drive.”
Lane added, “It is the end of the Ronnie and TKras show. We have had a great run, we have had a lot of fun, all good things must come to an end.”
