In a significant shift for the Tampa Bay Rays, the team has announced that their entire 2025 home schedule will be played at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida. The move comes in response to substantial damage sustained by Tropicana Field after Hurricane Milton struck the region in October.
Steinbrenner Field: A temporary home for the Rays
Steinbrenner Field, the spring training home of the New York Yankees, will serve as the Rays' temporary venue for the 2025 season. With a seating capacity of 11,000, the stadium is known for hosting the Yankees' spring training and also serves as the home of the Tampa Tarpons, the Yankees' Class-A affiliate. The Tarpons will relocate their games to other fields within the complex to accommodate the Rays’ schedule.
The decision to play at Steinbrenner Field over other potential options, including the Philadelphia Phillies' spring training stadium in Clearwater, came after consultation with Major League Baseball (MLB). The Rays will also benefit financially, with reports indicating the team will earn approximately $15 million from the arrangement.
Rays' owner hails the decision as best for fans
Rays owner Stuart Sternberg expressed his optimism about the situation despite the challenges. In a statement to The Associated Press, Sternberg remarked, “It is singularly the best opportunity for our fans to experience 81 games of Major League Rays baseball. As difficult as it is to get any of these stadiums up to Major League standards, it was the least difficult. You’re going to see Major League Baseball in a small environment.”
While the move is temporary, Sternberg emphasized that it provides fans with an opportunity to enjoy major league baseball in a more intimate setting, despite the necessary adjustments.
Damage to Tropicana Field and the decision to relocate
The Rays were forced to find an alternative venue after an assessment of Tropicana Field revealed extensive damage from the hurricane. Although the stadium itself remained structurally sound, the roof suffered severe damage.
Eighteen of the 24 fabric panels were torn off by the storm's high winds, leading to further water damage inside the facility. The estimated cost to repair the stadium is a staggering $55.7 million, with work expected to extend beyond the 2025 season.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the situation, stating, "This outcome meets Major League Baseball’s goals that Rays’ fans will see their team play next season in their home market and that their players can remain home without disruption to their families."
MLB's commitment to a smooth transition
Before the full extent of the damage to Tropicana Field was known, Manfred had made it clear that finding a temporary home for the Rays was a priority. Speaking in October, Manfred reassured fans, saying, “The one thing I can tell you for sure, they’re playing next year. We’re going to find them someplace to do it."
Steinbrenner Field, which is already used year-round by the Yankees, features modern facilities that meet MLB standards with minimal upgrades required. However, the stadium’s open-air design, unlike the domed Tropicana Field, could lead to more rain delays and weather-related disruptions, particularly during the hot summer months.
Looking Ahead: Rays and fans adapt to new normal
The 2025 season will undoubtedly be a unique one for both the Rays and their fans. While the team works to return to Tropicana Field once repairs are complete, Steinbrenner Field will serve as an important stepping stone for the franchise.
Fans will experience major league baseball in an entirely new environment, one that could offer a different kind of atmosphere for the season.
