Tampa Bay Rays face stadium crisis after Hurricane Milton

November 14, 2024 - By Rob DiFranco

(Photo: Wendy Kirkwood/ Tampa Bay Rays)

After an assessment conducted by the City of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Hennessey Construction Services, the Tampa Bay Rays are facing a crisis with Tropicana Field out of commission for the 2025 season.

Tropicana Field, home of the Rays since 1998, sustained significant damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton on Oct. 9, when winds destroyed 18 of the stadium’s 24 fabric roof panels. The interior of the stadium also faced rainwater damage.

“The primary structure is serviceable and capable of supporting a replacement tension membrane fabric roof,” according to the report.

The report adds that Tropicana Field is still structurally sound and could be repaired for $55.7 million in time for the 2026 MLB season. The Rays are already set to move from Tropicana Field in 2028 after the completion of a new $1.3 billion ballpark.

The Rays will play their home games at George M. Steinbrenner Field — the spring training home of the Yankees — in Tampa. Steinbrenner Field is the largest capacity spring training stadium, holding up to 11,026 fans.

“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. “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.”

According to an Associated Press report, the St. Petersburg City Council will meet on Nov. 21 to decide whether to proceed with repairing the damage.

“We have so much need across the city,” said council member Brandi Gabbard at a recent meeting. “I love the Rays. I love Tropicana Field. It’s not about not wanting to do this. It’s about a balance of priorities.”

According to the AP, the city recently approved $6.5 million to clean up and prevent further damage to the stadium.