Rays to Play 2025 Home Games at Yankees’ Steinbrenner Field After Hurricane Damage

Tampa Bay Rays to Play 2025 Home Games at Yankees’ Spring Training Facility

The Tampa Bay Rays have announced that they will play their 2025 home games at Steinbrenner Field, the New York Yankees’ spring training ballpark, due to extensive damage at Tropicana Field caused by Hurricane Milton.

Stuart Sternberg, the Rays’ principal owner, stated that Steinbrenner Field was the best option for both fans and the team. With 11,000 seats, it is the largest spring training site in Florida, providing a suitable temporary home for the Rays.

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has expressed support for the arrangement, highlighting the benefits for fans and players. The deal ensures that the Rays can remain in their home market without disrupting players’ families.

Tropicana Field, which has been the Rays’ home since 1998, suffered significant damage from Hurricane Milton. Repair costs are estimated at $55.7 million. A new stadium is planned for 2028 as part of the Historic Gas Plant District revitalization project.

The Rays will adapt Steinbrenner Field to reflect their brand, though they will face typical Florida summer weather challenges. The Yankees are set to receive approximately $15 million in revenue for hosting the Rays, sourced from insurance and other means.

Yankees executive Hal Steinbrenner played a key role in facilitating the deal, emphasizing community support over rivalry. The Yankees’ minor league team, the Tampa Tarpons, will adjust their schedule to accommodate the Rays.

This arrangement is not without precedent in MLB history. In 2021, the Toronto Blue Jays played home games at their spring training stadium due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

As the Rays prepare for this unique season, fans and players alike will be watching to see how this temporary solution unfolds in the 2025 MLB season.