Tropicana Field Renovations Delayed, Rays to Remain Displaced Until 2026

Comprehensive Damage Assessment Reveals Extensive Repairs Needed

Tropicana Field, the home stadium of the Tampa Bay Rays, will not be ready for the team to return until 2026, according to a comprehensive damage assessment report released by the team.

The report, conducted by an independent engineering firm, found that the stadium requires extensive repairs to its roof, electrical system, and plumbing. The damage is more severe than initially anticipated, and the repairs will take longer than expected.

Rays to Play Remainder of 2023 Season in St. Petersburg

The Rays will continue to play their home games at Tropicana Field for the remainder of the 2023 season. However, the team will explore other options for a temporary home stadium in 2024 and 2025 while Tropicana Field undergoes renovations.

The Rays are considering playing their home games at a minor league stadium in the Tampa Bay area or at a college stadium in the state of Florida.

New Stadium Construction Plans on Hold

The delay in the Tropicana Field renovations has also put the Rays' plans for a new stadium on hold. The team had hoped to begin construction on a new stadium in 2024, but that timeline is now uncertain.

The Rays are still committed to building a new stadium, but the team will need to find a new location and secure financing before construction can begin.

Rays Remain Optimistic Despite Setbacks

Despite the setbacks, the Rays remain optimistic about the future. The team believes that the renovations to Tropicana Field will create a better fan experience and that a new stadium will help the Rays compete for a World Series championship.

The Rays are also grateful for the support of their fans during this challenging time. The team knows that the fans are eager to see the Rays return to Tropicana Field, and the team is committed to making that happen as soon as possible.