The legendary Tropicana Field, Home of the Tampa Bay Rays, has certainly seen better days since the infamously destructive Hurricane Milton tore through Florida less than 4 months ago. The most noticeable damage was the tarp-covered roof that was mostly ripped off but there are reports of water damage as well.
Following the hurricane, the destruction of Tropicana Field took over many news outlets. Even with knowing the strength of Milton, the damage was unexpected to many fans considering something like this hasn’t happened before.
“It felt impossible that something like that could happen to a structure that I’ve…been to so many times…,” junior Trey Riley said.
The damage has been immense, but the St. Petersburg City Council has already received many agreements and proposals to overlook. With the high cost to follow through with the repairs and residents and businesses still recovering from the hurricanes, it’s been a struggle to come to a final agreement. “In reality, nothing gets finalized until it gets approved by [the] city council,” said Lisset Hanewicz, the Council Vice Chairperson.
Currently, the city of St. Petersburg has agreed to spend $1.4 million in preconstruction plans with the actual construction estimated to cost around $55.7 million. The preconstruction plan involves “…meeting with building officials and the fire marshal, submitting for permitting, and approvals from Major League Baseball…” according to WFLA.
Originally, the Rays didn’t want the field to be repaired because they were unsure it would be finished for the 2026 season, however recently they have agreed to fix it. “It will take about 16 weeks to plan the construction before any work can begin on Tropicana Field,” according to the Tampa Bay Times.
Meanwhile, for the 2025 season the Rays are planning to play their home games at Steinbrenner Field. With construction schedules underway, the hope is for the field to be ready for the 2026 season. Once the field is repaired, under legal agreements, the Rays are required to play three more seasons at Tropicana Field.
While a lot more planning and signing of agreements must take place, the Rays and fans are looking to the 2025 season with excitement. Despite being challenged by moving playing fields, the team is prepared to take on the 2025 season.
