Now, the Rays must explore alternatives, both in and out of state. Locally, Charlotte Sports Park, their spring training venue, and ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, are possibilities, but neither is ideal for hosting regular-season games. Charlotte Sports Park is only equipped to hold 7,000 fans, and while ESPN Wide World of Sports offers better facilities and a larger capacity, it’s still far from perfect, being more than 60 miles from Tampa.
There’s precedent for teams temporarily relocating due to stadium damage or other issues, such as the Toronto Blue Jays using Buffalo’s Sahlen Field during the pandemic. If the Tropicana Field roof proves impossible to repair quickly or cost-effectively, the Rays could find themselves without a true home until 2028, when their new ballpark is slated to open. Out-of-state options might be on the table, though the team remains committed to staying close to Tampa, with a focus on minimizing disruption to their fan base.
This situation not only raises practical concerns about where the team will play but also opens up broader questions about how MLB teams can plan for increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and infrastructure challenges. The Rays have already been on the lookout for a new, more modern home, but Hurricane Milton has accelerated the timeline and brought urgency to these discussions.
What’s your take on the situation?
Should the Rays explore more out-of-state venues, even if it means a significant departure from their Tampa Bay roots? Or is staying as close to home as possible—despite the challenges— the best course of action to keep the fan base engaged? Share your thoughts on what this means for the future of the team and its relationship with the community.
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FAQs
Q: When will the Rays make a decision on their temporary home for the 2025 season?
A: The Rays are expected to announce their relocation plans in the near future to ensure a smooth transition for the upcoming season.
Q: What are some of the potential alternate sites being considered by the Rays?
A: Clearwater, Dunedin, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Orlando, Omaha, Montreal, and several other cities with AAA teams are among the locations being evaluated as temporary homes.
