An apparatus for producing a stabilizing base flame for a premix main burner flame in a burner assembly having a burner end, a first fuel line, a first fuel nozzle, a second fuel line, and a second fuel nozzle. The apparatus comprises a conduit having a first fuel line end in fluid communication with the first fuel line, a second fuel line end in fluid communication with the second fuel line, a valve in fluid communication with the conduit and a center fuel stabilization bluff body mounted in the burner end. The center fuel stabilization bluff body comprises a first ring, a second ring and a cylinder disposed between the first ring and the second ring.