The Tampa Bay Rays have announced that they will host the 2025 season at Steinbrenner Field, the spring training facility for the New York Yankees. The decision, first reported by Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, comes as the Rays seek a temporary venue following the severe damage inflicted on Tropicana Field by Hurricane Milton.
Tropicana Field's roof sustained significant damage during the hurricane, leading to an estimated $55.7 million in necessary repairs. These repairs are expected to be completed in time for the 2026 season. However, the future of Tropicana Field remains uncertain, especially as the Rays move towards constructing a new $1.3 billion ballpark, scheduled to open in 2028. Given the financial implications, there are concerns regarding whether the city of St. Petersburg will be willing to shoulder the costs associated with the short-term repairs for just two seasons of baseball.
St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch expressed optimism about the lower-than-anticipated repair estimates, stating that a quick resolution would benefit the Rays and the city. Welch emphasized the city's obligation under the existing agreement to provide a suitable facility and believes that repairing Tropicana Field would help address uncertainties regarding the Rays' location during the 2026-2028 seasons. He also noted that potential costs could be offset by insurance and FEMA reimbursements. Meanwhile, Rays' team president Matt Silverman indicated that discussions with the city would continue, solidifying Steinbrenner Field as the Rays' venue for 2025.
