Florida was hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with the latter hurricane crossing over the panhandle around the Tampa Bay area. As a result, the Rays' home stadium, Tropicana Field, was damaged by the high winds that accompanied the hurricane, causing damage to the ballpark, including the almost complete destruction of the roof. Given that the stadium was domed, there was no drainage system built into the ground, meaning that the Rays may need to deal with long-term water damage to the field.
The Rays are planning to replace Tropicana Field with a new stadium that is to be constructed next door, but this stadium is not expected to be ready until the start of the 2028 season, meaning that the Rays will need to determine whether they are able to play at Tropicana Field in the next three seasons or whether an alternative site will need to be procured. The Rays are scheduled to open the 2025 season with a home series against the Rockies and the Pirates for three games each.
Rays start assessing damage, viability of Tropicana Field
Winds from Hurricane Milton shredded most of the Teflon-coated Fiberglass roof; only a small number of staff were in the building at the time.www.tampabay.com
How are they building a stadium right next to it, in one of the dangerous/precarious spots for hurricanes.
The owner is a frugal as well.
Tampa Bay deserve better
