At some point during the 2025 MLB season, the Tampa Bay Rays will face a groundbreaking moment in their franchise history—a rain delay at a home game for the very first time. This change comes as the Rays transition to their new home at the open-air Steinbrenner Field after a significant weather event last year, Hurricane Milton, caused substantial damage to Tropicana Field when it tore off the roof, forcing the team to rethink their entire game day operations in a way that has never been required before.
With unpredictable Florida weather now becoming a crucial factor, everything from concessions to groundskeeping will be managed differently. William Walsh, the Rays’ chief business officer, emphasized the importance of collaboration in this new setup. “While we are responsible for the stadium operations, we’re heavily relying on the Yankees staff’s expertise,” he explained in a video interview. Their familiarity with the building and experience in handling weather challenges will be invaluable as the Rays navigate this learning curve.
To bolster their readiness for impending rain delays, the Rays have appointed Eric Weisberg, the vice president of fan relations, as their dedicated weather coordinator. His role involves working closely with the managers of both teams, the Rays’ travel secretaries, Major League Baseball (MLB), and a local meteorologist to stay ahead of evolving weather conditions. This proactive approach underscores the team’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for their fans, as they aim to keep everyone in the loop, no matter what Mother Nature throws their way.
Weisberg’s preparation also drew insight from other teams around the league. For instance, the Pittsburgh Pirates shared their strategy of managing delays even when it may not be actively raining. “There will be times when it may appear that inclement weather is on the horizon, but not starting the game could prevent later interruptions,” Weisberg recounted. Their suggestion to display radar visuals on the stadium’s video board served as a reminder of the necessity for clear communication with fans during uncertain conditions.
It’s worth noting that last year was an exceptional one for rain in Tampa, with a staggering total of 80.29 inches, most of which fell during the summer months. The situation was not exclusive to the Rays; the Tarpons, the Yankees’ Single-A affiliate, faced similar challenges, with 20 of their home games impacted by weather—eight of which had to be postponed or canceled. Such experiences have equipped the Rays with insights that inform their strategy for this coming season.
When the inevitable rain delays occur, Walsh suggested that the team would employ innovative technology developed by MLB to keep fans informed and entertained during the wait. Plans are underway for concession promotions through the MLB Ballpark app and timely text notifications aimed at engaging fans while they wait for play to resume. The objective is not just to handle the inconvenience but to turn it into an opportunity to enhance the fan experience.
Florida’s weather, particularly its sudden shifts, has amplified the need for agility and effective communication. “Down here, the weather can change in the blink of an eye,” Walsh said. “We must be prepared to adapt and ensure clear lines of communication. That’s where our focus lies—ensuring we utilize every tool at our disposal.”
While rain is a significant concern, the Rays must also contend with the oppressive summer heat and humidity that are hallmarks of the Florida climate. As part of their strategy to guarantee fan comfort, large tent structures have been erected along the concourses of Steinbrenner Field to provide essential cover and shade. They also established hydration stations for fans and staff, helping everyone stay cool and hydrated on particularly sweltering game days. Additionally, fans are allowed to bring in their own sealed 20-ounce bottles of cold water, along with the option to refill cups of up to 44 ounces. And don’t forget the misting fans strategically placed around the stadium.
Recognizing that staff comfort is paramount, the team has also taken steps to modify dress code policies to fit the climate. No longer confined to pants indoors, staffers can wear jerseys and other breathable clothing, including hats and sneakers, creating a more comfortable working environment.
Understanding the realities of Florida’s weather, the Rays and MLB made scheduling adjustments to enhance fan experiences. The goal is to maximize favorable conditions by playing 19 of their first 22 games in the early part of the season, allowing them more home games while the weather is more predictable. As a result, July and August will see only 16 scheduled home games—a strategic move aimed at avoiding the worst of the heat.
To mitigate potential disruptions further, the start times of summer games have been pushed back to 7:35 p.m., intentionally designed to dodge the region’s frequent late-afternoon rain showers. Weisberg notes, “In previous seasons, it wasn’t necessarily the games that were called off, but rather the pre-game batting practice and preparations that were affected. We’re working hard to minimize these interruptions.”
The Rays remain committed to their future, signaling their intent to return to Tropicana Field next season. Recent city council decisions in St. Petersburg reveal a willingness to invest in the stadium, with more than $22 million allocated for a new roof. Meanwhile, team owner Stu Sternberg has assured fans that plans for a new domed stadium in the Historic Gas Plant District are on pause, suggesting a degree of stability for the time being.
For now, the focus is on making the most out of this new chapter at Steinbrenner Field. “Our message to our staff is to embrace this culture of adaptability,” Walsh stated. “We may be facing unique challenges, but this gives us a chance to grow and shine.” And as the season unfolds, there’s a collective sense of excitement—no matter the weather, the Rays are ready for whatever comes next.
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