The Tampa Bay Rays will open a team store across from Tropicana Field on Saturday. Pitcher Ryan Pepiot is scheduled to show up at the grand opening. The store will operate while repairs continue on the stadium after Hurricane Milton caused damage.
Ryan Pepiot will make an appearance as part of the event. Fans get a chance to meet one of their pitchers during the offseason. The right-hander’s presence at the opening gives fans an opportunity to connect with the team.
Tropicana Field has been under repair since the storm hit. City officials approved $6.5 million in funds for urgent fixes to the venue, taking the money from the city’s $22 million insurance deductible.
Crews have removed the damaged roof and turf while working on other repairs. The work includes plans for a new drainage system, and experts have been checking the structure for weeks.
A full report is expected soon. Major League Baseball warned that if repairs aren’t finished by the season start, the club might have to play elsewhere. Questions linger about where the club will play if the stadium isn’t ready for the 2026 season.
Time is running out. Some local leaders question the investment in a venue with a short future, as officials approved a $1.3 billion replacement ballpark to open in 2028 earlier this year.
City Administrator Rob Gerdes hopes insurance payouts, municipal funds, and FEMA money will cover repair costs. Officials stressed the need to move fast on repairs to protect the building from more damage.