American Marconi Wireless News - Rays dump plans for new MLB ballpark in St. Petersburg

The Rays had planned a $1.3 billion venue and surrounding development, with local officials approving $600 million in contributions last December after delays, but the club would have been responsible for any overages in the cost of the project.

"After careful deliberation, we have concluded we cannot move forward with the new ballpark and development project at this moment," Sternberg said in a statement posted on X.

"A series of events beginning in October that no one could have anticipated led to this difficult decision."

Sternberg said the Rays "continue to focus on finding a ballpark solution that serves the best interest of our region, Major League Baseball and our organization."

Hurricane Milton caused damage to the team's enclosed ballpark, Tropicana Field, and will force the Rays to play home games this year at Tampa's 11,000-seat Steinbrenner Field, the pre-season training home of the New York Yankees.

"The city of St. Petersburg is currently advancing plans to restore Tropicana Field for the 2026 season," Sternberg said. "We are thankful for their efforts and are excited to return to our home field next spring."

The team's current lease with the city has them playing three more seasons in the facility but their future is uncertain after that and there have been reports of purchase offers for the team.

F.Bennett--AMWN