My 3 Other Options For The Tampa Bay Rays To Play in 2025
After the terrible effects of Hurricane Milton, which heavily impacted the Tampa Bay region, the future home of the Tampa Bay Rays for the 2025 MLB season remained uncertain until today, when it was announced they will be playing where the Yankees hold their Spring Training, George Steinbrenner Stadium. The storm’s damage to the Tropicana Field roof left a devastating blow for Rays fans all over The Bay who love catching the games with family and friends every year.
Now, Steinbrenner Stadium has a capacity 11,026 and is right across the street from Raymond James Stadium where the Bucs play. A neutral location and about 30 minutes away from Tropicana Field. Now, it got me wondering… Was that the only option that the Rays had to hold the 2025 season? Here are my 3 potential places that I felt could’ve been candidates for hosting the team next season.
- Tropicana Field (St. Petersburg, FL)
While significant repairs are obviously needed, Tropicana Field could have still been potential option for the Rays in 2025. The stadium, which was built in 1990, sustained damage in the hurricane but it is still structurally sound. Local officials and the team could explore ways to fast-track the repairs, making it a viable short-term solution until they open their new stadium in 2028. I feel like their is still time to have gotten that done and ready for opening day. - Raymond James Stadium (Tampa, FL)
As the home of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Raymond James Stadium is another cool option for the Rays. Located just over the bridge Tampa, the stadium has a seating capacity of over 65,000 and is equipped with modern amenities that will meet the standards to host baseball games. While it would require significant adjustments because the fields are different, it’s an option that could serve as a temporary solution while a new ballpark is being made The that it is close to the downtown area makes it very attractive for fans who don’t like making the drive to St. Pete. - Al Lang Stadium (St. Petersburg, FL)
My last option is probably the most cost-effective solution, the Rays could turn to Al Lang Stadium, a smaller venue located in downtown St. Petersburg. Home to the Tampa Bay Rowdies soccer team, the stadium’s capacity is a lot smaller than Tropicana Field or Raymond James Stadium, but it could host a limited number of games as a temporary home until the team can transition to a permanent new facility.
Did I miss one? Leave a comment on any other stadiums you suggest. Can’t wait to see the Rays in Tampa in 2025.
