MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis voiced strong support for the Tampa Bay Rays' proposed new ballpark on the Hillsborough College campus in Tampa. The leaders emphasized that baseball belongs in the Tampa Bay region during a Tuesday press conference. This follows a recent memorandum of understanding between the Rays and the college to redevelop the site.
On Tuesday morning in Tampa, Florida, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and Governor Ron DeSantis endorsed the Tampa Bay Rays' plans for a new ballpark and mixed-use development on the Dale Mabry campus of Hillsborough College. The 113-acre site sits across from Raymond James Stadium. Both leaders reiterated their conviction that "baseball belongs in Tampa Bay" and can thrive there.
Two weeks prior, the Hillsborough College District Board of Trustees unanimously approved a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Rays. This marks the initial step toward a new stadium, with the team set to play three more seasons at Tropicana Field before relocating in 2029. The MOU provides a 180-day exclusive negotiation period for a final agreement encompassing the MLB stadium, mixed-use elements, and upgraded college facilities.
Manfred, speaking at the news conference, affirmed his longstanding view: "One thing that has been consistent during my time as Commissioner was my view that Major League Baseball belongs in Tampa Bay." He praised the new ownership group as Florida- and Tampa-rooted, expressing excitement about their commitment to building a facility and delivering wins for fans.
The Rays have sought a permanent home for nearly two decades, with past proposals on both sides of Tampa Bay failing to materialize. After abandoning a Tropicana Field redevelopment last year, former owner Stuart Sternberg sold the team in a deal finalized in September.
DeSantis, a Dunedin native with a baseball background, called the project "mutually beneficial" and highlighted the owners' study of successful models like Atlanta's The Battery. He noted potential interest from Orlando but prefers keeping the franchise in Tampa Bay, its home since 1998: "This is where the team was born, and I think this is where the team can succeed."
Rays CEO Ken Babby announced forthcoming renderings and community engagement: "We will share more renderings in the weeks and months ahead and, more importantly, engage in in-depth community conversations." The ownership envisions a fair public-private partnership, with the Rays covering at least 50% of construction costs, all overruns, repairs, and improvements. Public funding for the remainder would primarily come from tourist sources, potentially requiring legislative approval.
Manfred acknowledged the urgency amid Florida's growth but avoided framing it as a final opportunity: "Florida is vibrant. There are alternatives in Florida, and I do think we're at a point in the history of the club that something needs to get done."
Attendees included Rays managing partner Patrick Zalupski, co-chair Bill Cosgrove, former president Matt Silverman, college president Ken Atwater, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, and local commissioners. On Wednesday, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners was scheduled to receive an update from chair Ken Hagan.
