Tampa Bay Rays Return to Renovated Tropicana Field After Hurricane Damage

The Tampa Bay Rays are set to return to Tropicana Field for their home opener on Monday, marking the first time the team has played at the stadium in 18 and a half months. This return follows extensive renovations necessitated by Hurricane Milton, which struck St. Petersburg, Florida, on October 9, 2024. The hurricane caused significant damage, including ripping sections of the stadium's roof and allowing rain to infiltrate the venue, leading to mold and damage to electrical, sound, and broadcast systems.

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In response to the destruction, the Rays organization invested nearly $60 million in repairs. The renovations included the installation of a new roof, which was completed in November 2024, as well as upgrades to luxury suites, the stadium video board, artificial turf, and clubhouse facilities.

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Rays manager Kevin Cash expressed enthusiasm about the team's return, stating, “Our organization has worked incredibly hard... I couldn’t be more impressed with the way it looks, and excited to see our fans.” The team has a history of strong fan support, having sold out their home opener for 20 consecutive seasons, excluding 2020 when attendance was restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Reliever Griffin Jax, who joined the team in July 2025, also shared his excitement, noting, “It’ll be good to be back in our home.” He reflected on the challenges of playing at Steinbrenner Field, the Yankees’ spring training facility, during the previous season, describing the environment as “not ideal” but emphasizing the need to adapt and focus on the game.

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Despite the renovations, the future of Tropicana Field remains uncertain. The Rays are currently under lease to play at the stadium through at least the 2028 season. However, the team's new ownership group is actively pursuing plans for a new ballpark in Tampa, located near the Yankees’ spring training complex and across from Raymond James Stadium, home of the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

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As the Rays prepare to return to their home field, the excitement surrounding the renovations and the prospect of a new stadium adds a layer of complexity to the team's future in the region.

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• “I think guys are excited, and rightfully so,” — Kevin Cash, Rays Manager

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• “I’m just really excited to get back in the Trop,” — Griffin Jax, Rays Reliever

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• “The environment wasn’t awesome, but it’s still baseball.” — Griffin Jax, reflecting on playing at Steinbrenner Field.

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