Major League Baseball is actively seeking a new home for the Tampa Bay Rays by Christmas 2025. The urgency stems from the damage inflicted on the Rays' current home, Tropicana Field, by Hurricane Milton on October 9. Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed willingness to consider utilizing a minor league park for the Rays and suggested potential adjustments to both major and minor league schedules to accommodate the relocation.
Various minor league ballparks in the Tampa Bay area, including those used for spring training by teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Yankees, are being considered as temporary venues for the Rays. Additionally, options such as the Rays' spring training complex in Port Charlotte and the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex near Orlando are on the table.
Manfred emphasized the need for a concrete plan by Christmas, highlighting the importance of assessing the damage at Tropicana Field, which includes significant roof damage and internal issues. The process of evaluating the extent of the damage is ongoing, with a report expected by early November.
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing regarding the potential participation of MLB players in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The eligibility of players for the Tokyo Games was limited to those not on 40-man rosters, as most big league teams opted not to release their top prospects. Manfred indicated that the decision on MLB players' participation in the 2028 Olympics remains unresolved.
Another topic of concern for MLB is the increase in pitching injuries and the growing trend of bullpen games, leading to shorter outings for starting pitchers. Manfred acknowledged the need for offseason discussions on potential rule changes to address these issues, particularly in light of recent criticism from union head Tony Clark regarding the strain on pitchers.
As the MLB gears up for important meetings in November, including gatherings of general managers and owners, the focus remains on addressing key issues facing the league, from finding a new home for the Rays to navigating player participation in international events and addressing concerns around pitching strategies and injuries.
