The Tampa Bay Rays kick off the 2026 season against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday afternoon at Busch Stadium, located a few blocks west of the Mississippi River.
Recently, discussions around the team have centered more on ownership changes, roof repairs, and plans for a new stadium in Tampa. So, let’s catch up before the first pitch at 4:15 p.m.
Will we see any immediate changes under new ownership?
The Rays have transitioned to new ownership. Principal owner Patrick Zalupski has been active in the Tampa Bay community and engages with fans on social media, while minority owner and CEO Ken Babby is emerging as the spokesperson for the team. Babby has interacted with fans and is overseeing the stadium project.
Upon acquiring the team from Stuart Sternberg in October, both owners emphasized that they would not interfere with baseball operations, so expect little change in payroll or player acquisitions for now.
However, fans will notice improvements in the experience at Tropicana Field, including new seating options and enhanced premium areas. More than two-thirds of the seats will be around 15% cheaper, and $10 tickets will be available for every game.
What should I know about opening day?
This season opener is unusual as the Rays have only been away for their first game eight times in nearly three decades. The decision is due to ongoing repairs at Tropicana Field following Hurricane Milton in 2024. The team will embark on a nine-game road trip before returning home.
On the mound, right-hander Drew Rasmussen takes the field for Tampa Bay, while left-hander Matthew Liberatore represents St. Louis. Both are set to make their first opening-day starts.
Notably, Liberatore was the Rays’ first-round pick in 2018 before being traded to the Cardinals as part of a deal for Randy Arozarena. Rasmussen made headlines last season as the first pitcher to return from three major elbow surgeries to make an All-Star appearance.
What TV channel will Rays games be on?
The specific channel for Rays games won’t be confirmed until shortly before the game. The team is transitioning from the FanDuel Sports Network to MLB Media, which is finalizing local cable and internet contracts before announcing details.
As of Wednesday, DirectTV announced it would broadcast Rays games on channel 652 for streaming and satellite viewers, while Spectrum has a dedicated Rays channel ready to go. Fans can also anticipate some games being aired on the over-the-air station WTOG.
If you want immediate access, the Rays TV streaming service is now available, providing coverage for all games except for certain national broadcasts. Out-of-market viewers can tune in through MLB.TV.
What about Tropicana Field?
Following 16 months and $60 million in repairs, Tropicana Field is on track for its home opener against the Chicago Cubs on April 6. The completion of the last roof panel occurred on November 21, followed by the installation of a new playing field featuring 137,000 square feet of artificial turf.
Visual upgrades include a larger outfield videoboard and improved displays behind home plate. Other enhancements consist of restored air conditioning, new sound systems, and updated facilities such as seating and locker rooms.
Will the Rays be any good?
While the Rays haven’t experienced three consecutive losing seasons since 2014-2017, they might be at risk now. Last season was particularly unlucky, as they concluded with a 77-85 record despite having a positive run differential of 31 runs.
Despite potential pitfalls, their pitching capabilities shouldn’t be underestimated. However, the past two years have shown that consistent overachievement remains uncertain. Key pitcher Shane McClanahan is returning after a two-year hiatus, making his recovery significant for the team’s performance.
Any injuries that will affect their start?
Newly acquired second baseman Gavin Lux has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a shoulder issue, while shortstop Taylor Walls is out with an oblique strain. Pitchers Ryan Pepiot and reliever Steven Wilson are also starting the season on the injured list due to hip and back problems.
These injuries have opened up opportunities for younger players like shortstop Carson Williams, leading the Rays to adjust their infield and pitching depth.
What else is new in MLB?
Fans will notice the introduction of the ABS, or automated ball-strike challenge system, which allows teams to challenge ball and strike calls. While human umpires will still make decisions, technology will support them by leveraging cameras and tracking systems to evaluate pitches accurately.
Teams are allotted two challenges per game, retaining their challenge if successful. In extra innings, teams without challenges receive one additional opportunity.
Other changes include restrictions for base coaches to reduce sign-stealing and an emphasis for umpires to penalize attempts to draw obstruction calls.
