By Ajay Kumar 
Photo Credit: SBNation DRB
On October 17, 2020, the Tampa Bay Rays of Major League Baseball (MLB) secured their second-ever American League pennant. With a dynamic, talented team preparing for the franchise’s second World Series appearance, the Rays’ future seemed bright. However, overshadowing their on-field success was an expiring agreement with Tropicana Field. Known as “The Trop,” this stadium had long been criticized as one of MLB’s least desirable venues, necessitating significant upgrades or even replacement. Since its opening in 1998, the Rays had called Tropicana Field home, but the looming expiration of their lease in 2027 prompted discussions about the team’s next steps. Potential scenarios included a timeshare with Montreal, building a new stadium in Hillsborough County, or even relocating entirely from the Tampa Bay area.
As speculation grew, the question of the Rays’ future dominated headlines. “Where will they go?” and “What will happen to baseball in Tampa Bay?” became pressing concerns for fans and residents. On September 18, 2023, these concerns appeared resolved when Rays owner Stuart Sternberg, St. Petersburg city officials, and Pinellas County representatives announced plans for a new stadium in the Historic Gas Plant District. This $1.2 billion project, set to open in 2028, included a modern stadium alongside redeveloped retail and entertainment spaces, aiming to transform St. Petersburg into a premier baseball destination. The Rays pledged $600 million in private investment, with local governments contributing the remainder.
Initially, the agreement was met with widespread enthusiasm. Fans and officials celebrated what seemed like a secure future for baseball in Tampa Bay and an economic boost for St. Petersburg. Yet, a year later, optimism gave way to uncertainty as the deal faced mounting challenges. Questions arose about how the once-celebrated plan had unraveled, bringing local politics and governance into sharp focus.
The Role of Public Financing in Stadium Development
To understand the challenges, it is crucial to examine stadium financing in the U.S. Historically, local governments have provided substantial public funding—estimated at $33 billion over the past five decades—to subsidize stadium construction. This approach is contentious. Critics argue that public funds should not support projects benefiting billionaire team owners, particularly when cities often see little direct revenue from sports events. Supporters, however, highlight the potential for job creation, community engagement, and political benefits, as stadium projects can foster goodwill among voters.
Referendums on stadium funding often fail, reflecting public skepticism. For instance, voters in Tempe, Arizona, rejected funding for a new hockey arena, prompting the Arizona Coyotes to relocate to Utah. Similarly, voters in Jackson County, Missouri, declined tax increases for stadium renovations, pushing the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to consider moves to neighboring Kansas.
Challenges Facing the Rays’ Deal
Unlike some states, Florida handles stadium subsidies through county commissions. In Pinellas County, the Rays’ stadium deal initially received a favorable 5–2 vote before the November 2024 general election. However, political shifts following the election jeopardized the project. Democratic Commissioners Janet Long and Charlie Justice, both supporters of the deal, left office—one retiring and the other losing re-election. With Republican Commissioner Chris Latvala leading a new majority, opposition to the deal intensified.
Compounding these political changes were delays in funding approval. Hurricanes Helene and Milton wreaked havoc on Pinellas County, necessitating urgent reallocations of public funds for storm recovery. Hurricane Milton’s destruction of Tropicana Field alone required $56 million in repairs, far exceeding the $25 million insurance coverage.
Faced with these challenges, the Rays sought an interim home for the 2025 season, ultimately choosing Hillsborough County’s Steinbrenner Field over BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater. This decision sparked backlash from Pinellas County officials, who accused the Rays of undermining the agreement.
The Broader Implications
The combination of political opposition and natural disasters has left the stadium deal in limbo. Without funding approvals, Major League Baseball’s future in Tampa Bay remains uncertain. Team owner Stuart Sternberg has indicated relocation is a possibility if the project fails.
This situation underscores the importance of local elections and their impact on community projects. While national politics often dominate public attention, decisions made at the county level—sometimes in races with little voter participation—can significantly shape the future of communities. The Rays’ stadium saga serves as a stark reminder of the lasting consequences of local governance and the challenges of balancing public interests with private ventures.