The Future of the Tampa Bay Rays Amid Hurricane Damage
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Rays are facing an uncertain future as Major League Baseball (MLB) scrambles to find a temporary home for the team following significant damage to Tropicana Field caused by Hurricane Milton. With the 2025 season approaching, the league is keen to keep the Rays close to their fanbase, at least for the start of the season, if repairs to the iconic stadium cannot be completed in time.
Damage Assessment at Tropicana Field
The translucent fiberglass dome of Tropicana Field, which has been the Rays’ home since their inaugural season in 1998, suffered extensive damage during the hurricane. The winds shredded the dome, leaving the immediate future of the ballpark in jeopardy. In response, the city of St. Petersburg has engaged the Hennessy/AECOM firm to conduct a thorough analysis of the damage. Additionally, another company has been contracted to remove the remaining roof material. St. Petersburg spokeswoman Alizza Punzalan-Randle confirmed that the city has filed an insurance claim to cover the costs associated with the damage.
City Council member Brandi Gabbard has indicated that the analysis is expected to be completed by the first week of November, which will provide a clearer picture of the next steps for the stadium and the team.
MLB’s Commitment to the Tampa Bay Area
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has expressed hope that the Rays can remain in the Tampa Bay area during this transitional period. “We’re hopeful that we can figure out something in (the Tampa Bay area) for them and that the repairs can be done in a way that allows them to resume playing,” Manfred stated in a recent episode of The Varsity podcast. He emphasized the importance of keeping the team anchored in its market, saying, “The easiest thing is always to stay in the market where the clubs are anchored, if we can manage it."
Potential Temporary Venues
As the search for a temporary home begins, several local spring training sites have been suggested. These include facilities used by the Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Detroit Tigers. The Rays’ own spring training complex in Port Charlotte, located about 85 miles south of St. Petersburg, is also a possibility. Another option could be the ballpark at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports complex near Orlando.
However, many of these venues currently host minor league teams after spring training concludes, which could necessitate significant adjustments to their schedules. A more straightforward solution might be the Orioles’ spring training site in Sarasota, which does not have a minor league team, thus avoiding potential scheduling conflicts.
Other Considerations
While there has been speculation about the Rays sharing the Miami Marlins’ stadium, this would pose logistical challenges due to the distance—approximately a four-hour drive from St. Petersburg. Additionally, a previous proposal for the Rays to play some home games in Montreal has resurfaced, but the stadium there is undergoing renovations and will not be ready for the upcoming season.
The Rays have opted not to comment on the situation, stating that it may take weeks to fully assess the condition of Tropicana Field. Another idea floated is to play at the Trop without a roof; however, the stadium lacks the necessary drainage systems to handle the heavy rains typical of the region.
Financial Implications of Repairs
A crucial factor in the decision-making process is the financial aspect of repairing a facility that is slated for demolition in a few years. The city of St. Petersburg and Pinellas County recently approved a new $1.3 billion ballpark, which is set to open in 2028 as part of a broader downtown revitalization project. This raises questions about how much money should be allocated to repair Tropicana Field, knowing it will soon be replaced.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
The Rays are scheduled to play their opening “home” game against the Colorado Rockies on March 27, 2025. Manfred has assured fans and stakeholders that MLB, the team, and other entities will collaborate to find a solution. “The one thing I can tell you for sure, they’re playing next year. We’re going to find them someplace to do it,” he affirmed on the podcast.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring that the Rays can continue to engage with their loyal fanbase while navigating the challenges posed by the hurricane damage and the impending transition to a new ballpark.