BREAKING: The new ownership group of the Tampa Bay Rays has announced urgent plans to repair Tropicana Field and begin the search for a new stadium, aiming for a grand opening in 2029. Led by real estate developer Patrick Zalupski, the group finalized a $1.7 billion purchase last week from former owner Stu Sternberg.
At a press conference held earlier today, Zalupski and 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, emphasizing the importance of building a sustainable championship team.
The search is underway for a new site that could encompass roughly 100 acres (40 hectares), which would feature not just a ballpark but also retail shops, bars, and restaurants. The envisioned stadium will be a domed ballpark with a fixed roof, enhancing the fan experience.
Babby, who is stepping in as the new CEO, acknowledged the community’s “fatigue” over the long-standing discussions about a new stadium. He reassured fans that Major League Baseball (MLB) wants the Rays to remain in the area. “We’re looking at everywhere,” Babby said, indicating that the search will not be limited to one potential location.
The need for immediate repairs at Tropicana Field is pressing, as the stadium suffered significant damage during Hurricane Milton in October 2022, including the loss of its roof. By the end of the week, Babby reported that half of the Trop’s 24 roof panels will be installed, which is crucial for the team to fulfill its current lease with the city of St. Petersburg for the next three seasons.
During the press conference, mayors from both Tampa and St. Petersburg showed their support, emphasizing the importance of the Rays to the local community. The team recently withdrew from a $1.3 billion project for a new ballpark in St. Petersburg due to hurricane-related delays and rising costs, a decision that led to Sternberg’s sale of the team.
As the Rays navigate these changes, it’s worth noting that they’ve struggled with attendance during their time in St. Petersburg, despite achieving success on the field. The team has won American League East titles in 2008, 2010, 2020, and 2021, and reached the World Series twice. However, they fell short of playoff contention this year, finishing with a 77-85 record.
As developments unfold, fans and local residents are eager to see how the new ownership will reshape the future of the Tampa Bay Rays. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
