Let’s talk about the big shake-up in Tampa Bay baseball. If you haven’t heard, the Rays pack their bags and head across town to play at Steinbrenner Field in 2025.
Why? Because Tropicana Field took a serious hit from Hurricane Milton back in October, it will take some time (and a lot of money) to get it back in playing shape.
A $50 Million Price Tag for a Temporary Home
Here’s the kicker—getting Steinbrenner Field ready for the Rays? That’s coming with a price tag of $50 million.
That’s on top of the renovations the Yankees already poured into the place. So before a single Rays player steps onto the field, tens of millions have been spent to ensure they have somewhere to play.
And if you think that’s just a nice favor, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred made it clear—this was a major show of generosity by Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner.
Manfred didn’t hold back, saying the industry owes Steinbrenner a “real debt of gratitude” for shelling out the money and stepping up when the Rays needed a temporary home.
And let’s be honest, how often do you hear about one franchise helping out another like this? Not every day.
Tarpons Get Pushed Aside By the Rays
While the Rays settle into their new digs, the Tampa Tarpons—the Yankees’ Single-A affiliate—get the short end of the stick.
They usually call Steinbrenner Field home, but with the Rays taking over, they’re being relocated to a field adjacent to the complex.
It’s not ideal, but at least they have somewhere to go.
Can the Rays Compete in a Stacked AL East?
What does this mean for the Rays? They’ll play their home games in a ballpark built for a minor league team while competing in one of the toughest divisions in baseball.
But don’t count them out. They’re bringing back ace Shane McClanahan, who missed all of 2024 recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Plus, Drew Rasmussen should be back at full strength, and they’ve added Ha-Seong Kim, who could be a big factor once he’s fully healthy in May.
Don’t forget about Junior Caminero—one of baseball’s most exciting young hitters—who’s ready to make his mark.
While it’s a temporary move, there’s still a lot of excitement surrounding this team heading into the 2025 MLB season. The big question now is whether Tropicana Field will actually be ready by 2026.
With the way these stadium projects tend to go, let’s just say no one should be holding their breath.
