The Rays have kicked off the process of selling tickets for their games at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, which will serve as their interim home for the 2025 season. Due to the lower capacity at the new venue, ticket prices are set to increase, with some experiencing significant hikes.
Currently, details have only been released for full-season ticket members seated in premium areas behind home plate. Prices have gone up by almost 40% in some cases.
Transitioning from Tropicana Field with a capacity of 25,025 to Steinbrenner Field with only 11,026 seats presents a challenge for the Rays. With an average attendance of 16,515 at the Trop last season, the team faces a potential 33% drop in attendance if they sell out all 81 home games. The increased ticket prices aim to offset this decrease in revenue, along with reductions in concession and parking sales.
One season ticket member shared that prices for black-chaired home plate club seating have increased by 38.8%. The member expressed frustration with the process of handling seating assignments and the size of the increase.
The Rays are prioritizing full-season ticket holders in the seating allocation process. Existing members have a limited time to accept similar seat assignments as at the Trop. After the renewal process, the team will offer packages to new customers from a waiting list. The move to Steinbrenner, the spring home of the Yankees, could potentially expand the Rays’ fan base by attracting more Tampa residents.
If not all designated seats are sold as full-season tickets, the Rays may introduce partial/flexible season ticket plans. Some seats will be reserved for individual game sales closer to the opener, with pricing and availability for games against marquee teams still pending.
Partial to partial plans
The decision to prioritize full-season packages has received backlash from fans who preferred lower-priced partial/flex plans. With concerns about affordability, fans are questioning the team’s choice to offer only full-season options.
Mary Blinkhorn, a seasoned ticket holder, criticized the lack of smaller package options and the significant price hike for premium areas. Blinkhorn hopes for cost-effective pricing across the ballpark to accommodate all fans.
Kyle Burnett, another longtime fan, voiced frustration over the focus on premium seating and full-season plans, feeling neglected as a flex-pass holder.
Rowdies release schedule, but where will they play?
The Rowdies have announced their 50th anniversary season schedule, starting in March with hopes to return to Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg after being displaced due to hurricane damage.
The team’s schedule allows for ample time for stadium repairs, with the first home game scheduled for April 12.
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Conclusion
The Rays’ move to Steinbrenner Field presents challenges in seating and ticket pricing, with some fans expressing frustration over the changes. The Rowdies are eagerly anticipating their 50th anniversary season and a return to Al Lang Stadium.
FAQs
Q: Will there be partial season ticket options available?
A: The Rays may offer partial/flexible season ticket plans if not all designated seats are sold as full-season tickets.
Q: How are ticket prices determined for premium areas?
A: Ticket prices for premium areas are based on Steinbrenner Field’s smaller capacity and available amenities.
