UPDATE: The newly acquired owners of the Tampa Bay Rays have just announced ambitious plans to repair Tropicana Field and find a new stadium by 2029. This comes after the franchise’s $1.7 billion purchase led by Florida real estate developer Patrick Zalupski, closing the deal last week.
In an urgent press conference on Tuesday, Zalupski, alongside fellow executives Ken Babby and Bill Cosgrove, confirmed that they are committed to keeping the team in the Tampa Bay area. “We need a new ballpark. I don’t think that’s disputed by anyone,” Zalupski stated emphatically, highlighting the team’s need for a state-of-the-art facility.
The new ownership group is actively searching for a site that spans approximately 100 acres (40 hectares) to accommodate not just a ballpark but also retail shops, bars, restaurants, and other amenities. The proposed stadium is envisioned to be a domed facility with a fixed roof, a response to both fan needs and local climate challenges.
“We want to build a sustainable championship team. We’re confident we can be successful in Tampa Bay,” Zalupski added, signaling a new era for the franchise. However, Ken Babby, the newly appointed CEO, acknowledged the local “fatigue” surrounding the stadium situation, referencing the frequent speculation about the Rays potentially relocating.
Major League Baseball (MLB) has reiterated its desire for the Rays to remain in Tampa, creating a sense of urgency for the new owners to finalize their plans. Several potential locations have been identified, including the vibrant Ybor City neighborhood and the grounds of a local community college, as well as an old greyhound racetrack.
Meanwhile, repairs at Tropicana Field are ongoing following significant damage from Hurricane Milton last October, which left the stadium’s roof severely compromised. By the end of this week, half of the 24 roof panels will be installed, according to Babby. The Rays are obligated to play at Tropicana Field for three more seasons under their current lease with the city of St. Petersburg.
Both mayors of Tampa and St. Petersburg attended the press conference, indicating strong local support for the Rays’ future in the area. The team previously withdrew from a proposed $1.3 billion project to build a new ballpark adjacent to Tropicana Field, citing cost concerns exacerbated by the hurricane.
This transition in ownership follows a tumultuous period for the franchise, which last season had to pay the New York Yankees $15 million to play at their spring training facility in Tampa. Historically, the Rays have faced challenges with attendance despite on-field success, including four American League East titles and two World Series appearances.
As the Rays embark on this new chapter, fans and stakeholders eagerly await further developments on both the repairs to Tropicana Field and the search for a new home. The commitment to a new ballpark brings a renewed sense of hope for the franchise’s future in the Tampa Bay area.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
