The Tampa Bay Rays MLB team rejected the new stadium contract for St. Petersburg. Team owners are now considering options within Tampa City limited. “After careful deliberation, we have concluded we cannot move forward with the new ballpark and development project at this moment. A series of events beginning in October that no one could have anticipated led to this difficult decision,” the Rays statement said. “Our commitment to the vitality and success of the Rays organization is unwavering. We continue to focus on finding a ballpark solution that serves the best interest of our region, Major League Baseball and our organization. The city of St. Petersburg is currently advancing plans to restore Tropicana Field for the 2026 season. We are thankful for their efforts and are excited to return to our home field next spring.”
Mayor Ken Welch released a statement Thursday afternoon.
“While the decision of Tampa Bay Rays ownership to terminate the agreements for a new stadium and new development is a major disappointment, it is not unexpected. Nor is it the end of the Historic Gas Plant District story,” he said. “The city will continue to pursue all avenues that will help us deliver on our ultimate goal: utilizing the HGPD property to benefit the community and fulfilling the 40-year-old promises of economic development and opportunity made to the African-American community in St. Petersburg, as well as the community priorities identified through the current development process, which began in 2022.”
According to Tampa Bay Business Jornal, two groups are reportedly trying to buy the Rays from owner Stu Sternberg, who has been silent on the matter. One group is considering a deal for a privately funded stadium in Tampa, while the other, led by sports consultant Joe Molloy, includes billionaire Edward DeBartolo Jr.
Matt O’Hern’s journalism experience includes 20 years of reporting and consulting for various news outlets in Florida and Alabama. O’Hern earned his journalism degree from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama.
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