Rays commit to Tropicana Field hurricane repairs, but time is ticking for 2026 opener
The Tampa Bay Rays have officially thrown their support behind a $55.7 million US city plan to repair the hurricane-damaged Tropicana Field in time for the 2026 season opener. This decision comes after some initial uncertainty surrounding the future of the ballpark. The team will be playing their games this year at the New York Yankees’ spring training home in Tampa, Florida, while the necessary repairs are underway.
Matt Silverman, the Rays’ co-president, confirmed the team’s commitment to the reconstruction project in an email to the St. Petersburg chief administrator. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the terms of the current use agreement, which stipulates that the city is responsible for funding the repairs. While there was speculation about a potential buyout of the obligation to rebuild the ballpark, Silverman made it clear that the Rays fully support the city’s efforts to restore Tropicana Field.
Hurricane Milton wreaked havoc on the Trop’s fabric roof when it made landfall on October 9, causing extensive damage to the stadium’s interior. Although temporary measures have been put in place to prevent further deterioration, the complete repair of the facility has been a subject of debate. The ultimate plan is to eventually demolish Tropicana Field to make room for a new $1.3 billion ballpark as part of a long-term agreement to keep the Rays in St. Petersburg for another three decades.
Time is of the essence, according to Silverman, who stressed the urgency of beginning the reconstruction process promptly to ensure that the ballpark is ready for the 2026 season. He highlighted the logistical and financial challenges that would arise from a partial season at Tropicana Field and urged the city to expedite the repairs.
The city of St. Petersburg expressed its understanding of the impact of the hurricane-related disruptions on the Rays’ operations and affirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the team to restore baseball games to the area. The cost of the repair proposal has been a point of contention among city council members, given the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene.
Mayor Ken Welch has proposed utilizing insurance and FEMA funds to cover a significant portion of the repair costs. Major League Baseball has also pledged to oversee the repair process through its own advisor to ensure compliance with established timelines.
In addition to the stadium repairs, the Rays are also involved in a larger redevelopment project known as the Historic Gas Plant District, which includes plans for a new downtown ballpark and various community amenities. The team is scheduled to play their home games at Steinbrenner Field in 2025 before returning to Tropicana Field for the subsequent three seasons as per their contractual obligations.
As the Rays gear up for the reopening of Tropicana Field, Silverman expressed optimism about the future of the team and the community. The grand reopening of the ballpark is eagerly anticipated by fans and stakeholders alike, marking a new chapter in the storied history of the Rays franchise.
