Rays Support $55.7 Million Tropicana Repairs

The Tampa Bay Rays have officially backed a $55.7 million plan for repairs to Tropicana Field, which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Milton in October, ensuring the facility is ready for the 2026 MLB season. Despite previous discussions about potentially bypassing repairs in favor of a buyout, Rays co-president Matt Silverman emphasized the importance of the city fulfilling its obligations under the use agreement to reconstruct the stadium. The team will play the upcoming season at Steinbrenner Field due to the Trop's unplayability. Local officials had expressed concerns over spending substantial funds on a facility slated for demolition as part of a $1.3 billion new ballpark development. Silverman stated that starting repairs promptly is critical to avoid logistical and financial challenges during the 2026 season. While the city has yet to fully approve the repair proposal, there is an ongoing collaborative effort to bring Major League Baseball back to St. Petersburg.