The Tampa Bay Rays have decided to withdraw from plans to build a new $1.37 billion stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida. The announcement came on Thursday from the team’s owner, Stu Sternberg. The Rays were supposed to partner with the city and Pinellas County, with the team planning to contribute $700 million and local governments expected to provide $600 million in public funds.
In his statement, Sternberg explained that after careful consideration, the team could not proceed with the stadium project at this time. He emphasized that the Rays are still looking for a ballpark solution that benefits the region, Major League Baseball, and the team itself.
The agreement for the new stadium had been approved by local officials in December following extensive negotiations. It included a clause that made the Rays responsible for any cost overruns. The team needed to show by March 31 that it could secure the $700 million it promised to invest.
Local officials expressed frustration over the situation. Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Latvala criticized Sternberg, suggesting that his credibility was questionable and that the community would be better off if he sold the team. He lamented the wasted tax dollars spent during the negotiations.
The stadium plans faced additional challenges after Hurricane Milton caused significant damage in the area last October. The storm not only flooded parts of St. Petersburg but also damaged Tropicana Field, the Rays’ current home, raising concerns about the timeline and costs of the new project.
The Rays’ lease at Tropicana Field expires after the 2027 season. However, they will play next season at the New York Yankees’ spring-training facility in Tampa while repairs are made to their current stadium. Following the hurricane, the team called for new discussions to address funding issues they claimed arose from the storm’s impact.
There are growing concerns that the Rays might consider relocating to another city. MLB Commissioner Ron Manfred has reiterated his desire to keep the team in the Tampa Bay area, but local officials have made it clear they are not willing to increase their financial commitment to the project. Commissioner Kathleen Peters stated that the county will not provide any additional funds.