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Rays
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Tampa Bay Rays secured a $2.3 billion stadium deal in Tampa, targeting 2029 opening. The move ends decades of uncertainty and keeps the team in the area.
Background
The Rays have played at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg since 1998, but the stadium has been criticized for years. After multiple failed attempts to build a new ballpark, including a plan to split games with Montreal, the team reached an agreement with Tampa and Hillsborough County. The deal includes public funding and a 35-year lease, with the county owning the stadium.
How it unfolded
- 2018The Ybor City stadium proposal collapsed, leading the Rays to explore a radical plan to split seasons between Tampa Bay and Montreal.
- 2025Tropicana Field was damaged by Hurricane Milton, forcing the Rays to play home games at a Yankees minor league affiliate's ballpark in Tampa.
- Aug 27, 2026Tampa City Council approved the city's portion of the stadium funding by a 4-3 vote.
- Aug 28, 2026Hillsborough County Commissioners approved the county agreements 5-2, finalizing the $2.3 billion stadium project.
- Aug 29, 2026The Rays secured their 81st win of the season with a comeback victory over the Padres, extending their AL East lead.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Rays CEO Ken Babby called the vote 'a really important step forward in securing the forever home of the Tampa Bay Rays right here in Tampa.'
- Public
- St. Petersburg bar owner Mark Ferguson said, 'It's a sad day in St. Pete. A happy day in Tampa,' reflecting mixed feelings about the move.
- Analysts
- Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer called the Rays potential 'playoff frauds,' citing their modest record against winning teams and lack of power outside Junior Caminero.
Still unverified
The exact timeline for construction and the 2029 opening is subject to change, and the deal still requires final approvals.