DALLAS: Yankees and Rays Partner for 2025 Season Amid Hurricane Damage
In a significant move within Major League Baseball, the New York Yankees have announced their partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays for the upcoming 2025 season. This decision was prompted by the damage inflicted upon the Rays’ home stadium, Tropicana Field, by Hurricane Milton in October. Consequently, the Rays will now play their home games at George M. Steinbrenner Field, the Yankees’ spring training complex in Tampa, Florida.
Details of the Agreement
As part of the arrangement, after the Yankees conclude their spring training, they will operate as a visiting team when they face the Rays at their facility. Yankees players will utilize the visitors’ batting cages and training areas during these matches. However, players undergoing rehabilitation will not have access to GMS Field’s facilities and will train at a nearby player development complex.
In exchange, the Rays will enjoy the Yankees’ extensive clubhouse and training facilities, which will soon include a new, modern multistory baseball operations building. This facility, expected to be operational before spring training begins, will house an expanded weight room, training rooms, a women’s locker room, and various lounges, among other amenities. Notably, the Rays will not be permitted access to any Yankees equipment or proprietary technology.
Ticket Sales and Merchandise
The responsibility for ticket sales for the Rays’ regular-season games will rest solely with the Rays, ensuring they retain all ticket revenue generated from games at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Similarly, any merchandise sold at the facility following spring training will be Rays-specific, further emphasizing the distinct branding of the two franchises.
Game Day Operations and Upgrades
As the Rays prepare for this partnership, they are discussing various modifications to the stadium to enhance the atmosphere and improve the experience for fans. Although alterations are still under consideration, it has been confirmed that the statue of the late George Steinbrenner at the main entrance will remain untouched.
For fans attending Rays games, parking will primarily be provided across the street at Raymond James Stadium, the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Rays will establish parking rates and manage game day operations at Steinbrenner Field, with a minimal number of field employees supporting the events.
Employment Opportunities
The food, beverages, and merchandise provided during Rays games will be handled by Legends Hospitality in partnership with Levy Restaurants. Together, these entities plan to explore job opportunities for those impacted by the closure of Tropicana Field, contributing positively to the local community.
Facility and Safety Enhancements
As part of the transition, the Rays will be held accountable for costs associated with upgrading adjacent fields, used by the Yankees’ Low-A affiliate, the Tampa Tarpons. Necessary improvements include the installation of lights, padding the outfield walls, and enhancing both dugouts, ensuring compliance with Major League Baseball’s standards.
Specific plans for upgrades to GMS Field, including the visiting clubhouse and press facilities, are currently being discussed by the Yankees, Rays, and MLB officials.
Postseason Uncertainty
Looking ahead, if the Rays qualify for postseason play, the location of their potential home games remains uncertain. A decision will be jointly made by the Yankees, Rays, and MLB regarding the venue for any playoff contests.
This collaboration underscores the adaptability of professional sports teams in the face of natural disasters and the importance of community resilience.
