Tampa Bay Rays May Get a Waterfront Stadium
Here we go again with the Tampa Bay Rays as they are taking their last chance at getting a waterfront stadium. For the last 15 years it seems like this has been the will they-won’t they relationship usually reserved for reality TV. But unlike last time (try to hold in the laughter) this time they are for real.
Now we all know what happened last year when the Montreal deal was shot down in flames, thought that be the last you hear of that well yeah but that is what really cemented in the fact that the Rays may just stay here at the Trop. But there is a force still fighting to get the Rays into Tampa.
Darryl Shaw has been working for the last few years to get the Rays into two separate Ybor City venues. And he has recently purchased 25 Acres of Waterfront property in lovely downtown Tampa right between the Aquarium and Ybor City. The Rays tried in this same area years ago but ultimately passed on the property. This new lot is closer and could land the Rays a waterfront stadium. [Source Tampa Bay Times]
5 Things In Tropicana Field That Need To Be In The New Rays Stadium
The Rays Touch Tank
It’s a stadium must-see for the Rays. The sting ray touch tank is a tribute to the original Rays uniform and is the first of its kind at a professional sports venue. For the new stadium, we would love to see a bigger tank where maybe you can take standing photos against the glass with the sting rays.
Party In The Outfield
One of the Trop’s newest additions, The Budweiser Porch, out in centerfield is a great spot to hang before or during the game! The area features a long bar which makes it easy to get your beer and back to your spot. There’s also exclusive food stands here like Beer Battered Fries from Pig & Potato or the Hawaiian Hot Dog from Pacific Counter. Needless to say there definitely needs to be an outfield hang spot in the new stadium.
BallPark & Rec Lounge
Another great addition to the Trop that we would hate to see go. An arcade lounge indoors and outdoors that’s a great spot to hang before or after the game. It helps that there are two Tampa Bay Park and Rec locations so it will still feel fitting to include them in the new stadium.
Beans & Barlour
The most bougie milkshakes in baseball, but they are WORTH IT! Pro tip: they’re even better when you add whiskey! We can’t imagine the new stadium without this foodie staple.
The Rays Museum/162 Landing
Life-long and newbie Rays fans love to reminisce at the Rays Museum that features the history of the franchise since its inception. 162 Landing is another great spot to look back and remember one of the Rays most iconic wins. We hope the new stadium finds a way to incorporate Longo’s winning home runs and all the other milestones the Rays have reached since becoming a team back in the 90’s.
