MLB Discusses Neutral Playoff Venues Amid Rays Stadium Capacity Concerns

The Tampa Bay Rays face significant challenges hosting potential 2025 playoff games due to their current home, Steinbrenner Field, which seats just over 10,000 people, far below typical major league stadium capacities. This limitation raises concerns for Major League Baseball regarding broadcast logistics, media accommodations, and reduced postseason gate receipts, which directly impact players' earnings. The Rays, displaced from their damaged Tropicana Field by Hurricane Milton, have discussed with MLB the possibility of relocating postseason games to neutral sites such as LoanDepot Park in Miami, though players worry about travel and family disruptions. Owner Stuart Sternberg and MLB are exploring alternatives to ensure fair competition, especially if Tampa Bay faces the New York Yankees at Steinbrenner Field, which would give the Yankees an unfair home-field advantage. Meanwhile, the Rays remain competitive, holding a strong position in the AL playoff picture, while ownership talks continue, with a potential sale to a group led by Patrick Zalupski aiming to secure new stadium arrangements. Despite the stadium and ownership uncertainties, the Rays continue their strong season momentum, positioning themselves as serious postseason contenders.