UPDATE: The Tampa Bay Rays are making a triumphant return to Tropicana Field for the 2026 season, following extensive repairs from damage caused by Hurricane Milton in October 2024. The team announced this exciting news just hours ago, confirming they will kick off their home schedule against the Chicago Cubs on April 6, 2026.
This return is a significant milestone for the Rays, who have spent the entire 2025 season at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. The team faced challenges at the open-air venue, including 17 rain delays over just 16 games, totaling nearly 18 hours of interruption. Despite these hurdles, the Rays managed a 41-40 record, selling out 61 of 81 games and drawing 786,750 fans.
In a statement, team CEO Ken Babby expressed enthusiasm about returning home: “
We are excited to return home to Tropicana Field in April and to once again join our fans and neighboring businesses in downtown St. Petersburg in celebrating the return of Rays baseball.
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Repairs to the stadium’s roof and internal areas are currently underway. The damage inflicted by Hurricane Milton saw the iconic venue’s roof, known for being the world’s largest cable-supported dome, sustain severe destruction. The Rays are set to unveil a number of upgrades as part of the renovation, including an expanded main videoboard, new video displays, an upgraded sound system, and refreshed suite interiors.
Additionally, the Rays are launching several new ticket options starting Thursday, with an emphasis on enhancing the fan experience. The franchise is also planning special events to honor former third baseman Evan Longoria, including his induction into the team’s hall of fame.
Looking ahead, the Rays are undergoing a significant transition, with new ownership actively searching for a new ballpark that could open as early as 2029. Despite past struggles with attendance at Tropicana Field, the team has enjoyed success on the field, with World Series appearances in 2008 and 2020.
In another development, the team confirmed the release of infielder Bob Seymour, who is pursuing a playing opportunity in Asia.
As the Rays gear up for their return to Tropicana Field, fans are eager to see how the renovations and the upcoming season will unfold. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the excitement builds for Rays baseball’s return to St. Petersburg!
