Tampa Bay Rays Seek New Stadium after Nearly 28 Years
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — For almost three decades since the Tampa Bay Rays debuted in St. Petersburg’s domed stadium, the team has sought better opportunities.
Located across Tampa Bay from a larger population in Tampa, Tropicana Field has seen consistently low attendance over the years.
Initially part of MLB expansion alongside the Arizona Diamondbacks, the team originally named the Tampa Bay Devil Rays dropped “Devil” from its name. Despite being a small-market team, they have managed relative success with modest payrolls and attendance figures.
Over the years, discussions about replacing the aging Tropicana Field have come and gone, including an unsuccessful proposal for a new stadium in Tampa’s Ybor City and a St. Petersburg plan that was derailed by Hurricane Milton in 2024. In March, the Rays withdrew from a $1.3 billion deal with St. Petersburg, reigniting stadium talks.
The Rays have signed a nonbinding memorandum of agreement with Hillsborough College to develop a multiuse facility on a 113-acre site along Dale Mabry Boulevard, near Raymond James Stadium and George M. Steinbrenner Field.
Details regarding the new stadium remain scarce, including whether it will feature a roof, which is crucial for managing Florida’s rainy seasons. The team is engaging in discussions with Tampa officials and has a six-month timeframe for negotiations with Hillsborough College.
Despite previous plans, the team had previously abandoned negotiations with St. Petersburg and Pinellas County, citing rising costs linked to the hurricane and repairs needed for Tropicana Field, which suffered extensive damage. Currently, the Rays are expected to return to St. Petersburg for the 2026 season and have a lease at Tropicana Field that extends through at least 2028.
The ownership transition occurred last September, when a group led by Florida real estate developer Patrick Zalupski acquired the team. Zalupski, along with CEO Ken Babby, plans to create a vibrant atmosphere similar to Truist Park in Atlanta, emphasizing a blend of shopping, dining, and residential spaces. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has mentioned that state assistance for stadium financing won’t be available, but there may be support for infrastructure improvements around the site.
