Rays to Play 2025 Home Games at Yankees’ Spring Training Ballpark
The Tampa Bay Rays will play their 2025 home games at Steinbrenner Field, the spring training ballpark of the New York Yankees, due to uncertainty about the future of Tropicana Field, which was damaged by Hurricane Milton.
Rays’ Principal Owner Stresses the Importance of the Move
Stuart Sternberg, the Rays’ principal owner, emphasized that Steinbrenner Field is the best fit for the team and its fanbase. "It is singularly the best opportunity for our fans to experience 81 games of major league Rays baseball," Sternberg said. "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."
Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred Approves the Move
Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred praised the decision, stating that it meets Major League Baseball’s goals to ensure that Rays fans can see their team play at home and that the players can remain in their hometown without disruption to their families.
The Challenges of Playing at Steinbrenner Field
The Rays will face some challenges playing at Steinbrenner Field, including the hot and rainy Florida summer climate, which is different from their usual domed stadium. The team will also have to work to brand the stadium with their logo and colors.
Financial Arrangements
The Yankees will receive around $15 million in revenue from hosting the Rays, a sum that will come from other sources, such as insurance.
Conclusion
The Rays’ decision to play at Steinbrenner Field for the 2025 season is a temporary solution to the uncertainty surrounding Tropicana Field. While it presents some challenges, the team is committed to making the best of the situation and providing a great experience for their fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the Rays’ home stadium, Tropicana Field, not being used for the 2025 season?
A: Tropicana Field was damaged by Hurricane Milton, and the estimated cost of repairs is $55.7 million. The city of St. Petersburg, which owns the stadium, is still assessing the damage and determining the best course of action.
Q: How will the Rays’ fans be affected by the move to Steinbrenner Field?
A: The Rays’ fans will still be able to attend games and support their team, but they will have to adjust to a new stadium and a different playing environment.
Q: What is the future of Tropicana Field?
A: The city of St. Petersburg is planning to build a new stadium to replace Tropicana Field, which is expected to be completed in 2028.
