Tampa, FL, October 7, 2025
News Summary
The new ownership group of the Tampa Bay Rays, led by Patrick Zalupski, emphasizes constructing a new stadium as their primary focus. The proposed facility aims to resemble Atlanta’s Battery, integrating retail, hospitality, and entertainment venues. Discussions are ongoing for potential stadium sites in St. Petersburg, with community engagement as a priority. Current renovations to Tropicana Field are underway, expected to be ready by the 2026 season, while the new stadium aims for completion by 2029.
Tampa, FL – The new owners of the Tampa Bay Rays have declared the construction of a new stadium their primary focus during a recent press conference. The ownership group, led by Patrick Zalupski, aims to create a facility similar to Atlanta’s Battery, which would include retail space, hotels, bars, restaurants, and a concert venue, in order to better compete with larger markets.
While the exact location of the new stadium has not been announced, St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch has expressed enthusiasm about discussing options with the new ownership. He acknowledged the historical significance of St. Petersburg for the team, underscoring the city’s deep-rooted connection to the franchise.
The new ownership, aware of local community fatigue regarding stadium discussions, is committed to addressing existing obstacles before acquiring stadium land. Economic development expert John Boyd has advised the new owners to ensure they tackle any issues that may impede their progress in securing an appropriate site. Initial conversations have already been held regarding the Hillsborough Community College North Dale Mabry Campus as a prospective location, but as of now, no formal proposal has been submitted. This is particularly pressing given that only 4% of available land in Tampa has been reported as suitable for such a large project.
The new ownership group is specifically searching for a stadium site of at least 100 acres to accommodate the new ballpark alongside associated amenities. Their timeline for completion is set for 2029, with intentions to keep the team within the Tampa Bay area.
Currently, the Rays are in the process of repairing Tropicana Field, which suffered significant damage from hurricanes. This venue is anticipated to be ready for the 2026 season, but the team must fulfill its lease at Tropicana Field for three more seasons. Prior attempts to establish a new stadium in St. Petersburg were halted due to complexities arising from hurricane damage. The previous owner, Stuart Sternberg, had sought a stadium solution for many years before passing the team onto the new governance.
Under Zalupski’s leadership, marked by a background in real estate development and community enhancement planning, the ownership group intends to leverage revenue from the new stadium and mixed-use development to establish a successful team. Evaluations show that the Rays’ value has been stagnant; hence new revenues from this upcoming development are anticipated.
Despite competitive performance in recent seasons, the Rays have struggled with attendance figures. The recent press conference included mayors from both Tampa and St. Petersburg, signifying a collaborative approach as discussions with local government officials are planned following the finalization of the ownership sale.
Key Points of the New Stadium Proposal
- New owners prioritize building a new stadium by 2029.
- Proposed development includes retail space and entertainment venues.
- Potential site discussions are ongoing with local authorities.
- Community engagement is crucial given past stadium-related fatigue.
- Current plan involves repairing Tropicana Field, which should be ready by 2026.
FAQ
What is the main focus of the new owners of the Tampa Bay Rays?
The new owners of the Tampa Bay Rays emphasized the construction of a new stadium as their highest priority during a press conference.
What are the expected features of the new stadium?
Patrick Zalupski, the lead owner, expressed a desire to create a facility similar to Atlanta’s Battery, including retail, hotels, bars, restaurants, and a concert venue.
When is the new stadium expected to be completed?
The new stadium is expected to be completed by 2029.
Where is the current stadium, Tropicana Field, in terms of repairs?
Tropicana Field, severely damaged by hurricanes, is undergoing repairs and is expected to be ready by the start of the 2026 season.
What challenges are the new owners facing regarding the stadium site?
The ownership group is targeting a stadium site of at least 100 acres to host a new ballpark and associated amenities, but concerns were raised about the availability of land in Tampa, with only 4% reported as usable for such a project.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Stadium Priority | To be built by 2029 |
| Mixed-Use Development | Includes retail, hotels, bars, restaurants, concert venue |
| Current Venue | Tropicana Field undergoing repairs, expected completion in 2026 |
| Land Availability | Only 4% of land in Tampa is suitable for the project |
| Site Area | Target is at least 100 acres |
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Additional Resources
- ESPN: New Rays Owners Promise Repairs and Search for New Park
- Wikipedia: Tampa Bay Rays
- MLB: Rays New Owners Discuss Ballpark and Winning Team
- Google Search: Tampa Bay Rays Stadium Plans
- St Pete Catalyst: Rays Plan for New Stadium by 2029
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tampa Bay Rays
- WFLA: Atlanta Battery Vision for Rays Stadium
- Google News: Tampa Bay Rays New Ownership
- MLB Trade Rumors: New Rays Owners Discuss Stadium Plans
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