Rays Open 2025 Season at Steinbrenner Field Amid Stadium Uncertainty

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Rays will launch their 2025 regular season at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, a temporary move due to significant damage sustained at Tropicana Field from Hurricane Milton last October.

The decision to relocate home games comes after Rays owner Stu Sternberg recently withdrew from a $1.3 billion proposal to construct a new ballpark in St. Petersburg. Addressing the stadium situation just before Opening Day, Sternberg expressed his desire to find a lasting solution for the team.

“Obviously, it wasn’t our first attempt. It wasn’t our second or third. We’ve been trying,” Sternberg said. “We have the third-best record in baseball since 2008. Nine playoff appearances since I’ve been here. We try to carry ourselves in the best way as possible. We want to do what’s best for the organization and for the team.”

This season at Steinbrenner Field, traditionally used for New York Yankees spring training, represents a unique moment in Rays history. It marks the first time outdoor Major League Baseball will be played in Tampa due to the venue’s extensive facilities.

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred recently addressed the situation, affirming the viability of the Tampa Bay region as a significant market for the sport. Speaking on Sirius XM, he stated, “I see the Tampa Bay region, Tampa-St. Pete, as a Major League market. And we’re going to figure out a way to make it work in that market.”

Sternberg elaborated on his ongoing discussions with Manfred, emphasizing their teamwork in navigating the challenges posed by recent hurricanes. “We speak multiple times a week, monthly,” Sternberg remarked. “Rob recognizes we’ve been put in a difficult situation here with the double hurricanes. We are both in agreement to do what’s in the best interest of Major League Baseball.”

Looking forward, the hope remains to return to a repaired Tropicana Field by the 2026 season. However, for now, the Rays will make the most of their time at Steinbrenner Field, while continuing to explore options for a permanent home.