Florida's DeSantis and MLB Commissioner Support New Rays Stadium in Tampa

The proposed $1.3 billion ballpark project could determine the franchise's long-term future in the region.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 8:15pm

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred have voiced support for a proposed new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays. The $1.3 billion project would be built in Tampa, across from the home of the NFL's Buccaneers. While details on funding and timeline remain unclear, the new stadium could be a 'catalyst' for the team's long-term future in the Tampa Bay area.

Why it matters

The Rays' current home, Tropicana Field, sustained significant hurricane damage in 2024 and a previous redevelopment deal fell through last year, raising questions about the franchise's future in the region. A new stadium could help secure the team's long-term presence in Tampa Bay.

The details

The proposed ballpark would be built in Tampa, near the New York Yankees' spring training facility and across from Raymond James Stadium. The project would include a hotel, residential and retail areas, and multiple restaurants and bars. The Rays have expressed intent to cover at least 50% of the construction costs, with the remainder likely coming from public funding sources.

  • The Rays' current lease at Tropicana Field runs through at least the 2028 season.
  • Repairs at Tropicana Field, damaged by Hurricane Milton in 2024, are complete and the team is scheduled to return for the 2026 season.

The players

Ron DeSantis

The Governor of Florida who has expressed full support for the proposed stadium project.

Rob Manfred

The Commissioner of Major League Baseball who has also voiced support for the new stadium.

Ken Babby

The Chief Executive Officer of the Tampa Bay Rays, who said the new stadium will be the 'forever home' of the team.

Patrick Zalupski

The CEO of Dream Finders Homes Inc., part of the Rays' new ownership group.

Bill Cosgrove

The CEO of Union Home Mortgage, also part of the Rays' new ownership group.

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What they’re saying

“Today's an important day, a milestone along a path that I believe will lead to the Tampa Bay Rays being a part of this community for decades to come.”

— Rob Manfred, Major League Baseball Commissioner (ksgf.com)

“In the coming days, you'll see the first renderings of our new development and ballpark, the new forever home of the Tampa Bay Rays that will serve as a catalyst for this new community.”

— Ken Babby, Tampa Bay Rays Chief Executive Officer (ksgf.com)

What’s next

The Hillsborough County Commission will discuss the stadium proposal during its regular meeting on Wednesday. Any framework of funding for the stadium would have to be presented to the county commission, the city of Tampa and the Tampa Sports Authority for consideration.

The takeaway

The proposed new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays represents a critical juncture for the franchise, as the team's long-term future in the region could hinge on securing a modern, state-of-the-art facility. The support from Florida's governor and MLB's commissioner underscores the importance of keeping the Rays in Tampa Bay.