Rays, Yankees Boost Home-Field Edge in 2025

The Tampa Bay Rays have overcome early struggles at their interim home, Steinbrenner Field, recently winning nine of their last twelve games and four consecutive series there. The stadium's challenging infield, unpredictable winds, and limited foul territory have drawn criticism from both Rays players and opponents like the Twins and Blue Jays. In the series opener against the Texas Rangers, Kameron Misner hit the season’s softest home run, highlighting the field's unique conditions. The Rays, who have historically struggled against the Rangers, look to reverse that trend with strong pitching from Drew Rasmussen, who has delivered three straight six-inning scoreless starts. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees have improved their home-field advantage at Yankee Stadium with a powerful sound system, contributing to an 18-9 home record. These developments show how MLB teams are leveraging their home environments for a competitive edge.