After Hurricane Milton tore off Tropicana Field’s roof, the Tampa Bay Rays have secured Tampa’s Steinbrenner Field as their temporary home for the 2025 season. With a capacity of 11,000, it is the largest minor league ballpark in the area and the best-prepared facility to accommodate the Rays, according to a recent release.
“We deeply appreciate that the Yankees have graciously allowed us to play at Steinbrenner Field for the 2025 season,” Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg said in a statement. “The hurricane damage to Tropicana Field has forced us to take some extraordinary steps, just as hurricanes Helene and Milton have forced thousands of families and businesses in our community to adapt to new circumstances as we all recover and rebuild.”
Pinellas County’s Temporary Stadium Options
The team evaluated several temporary stadiums in Pinellas County, including BayCare Ballpark, the spring training home of the Philadelphia Phillies. However, the move to Tampa may have political consequences, as Pinellas County commissioners will soon vote on the future of a proposed new stadium in St. Petersburg.
Before committing to the Tropicana Field redevelopment, the Rays spent years evaluating stadium sites in both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, often emphasizing that a Tampa location could attract larger crowds.
Spring Training at Charlotte Sports Park Continues
The Rays will still conduct spring training at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte. After Hurricane Ian caused temporary relocation in 2023, the Rays have since held their spring training workouts and games at Tropicana Field. Now, with Hurricane Milton’s extensive damage to Tropicana Field, the Rays are turning to Steinbrenner Field for 2025.
Extensive Hurricane Damage & Repair Costs
The estimated cost to repair Tropicana Field stands at $55.7 million, with repairs anticipated to make it ready by 2026. The scheduled opening for the new stadium remains in 2028. However, hurdles persist as Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Latvala urged caution, expressing hesitance to approve bond sales for the new stadium. “People who lost businesses on the beach, people who lost their house don’t care about the Tampa Bay Rays at the moment,” Latvala said. “I think we should be mindful of that and take our time.
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