During a pre-recorded segment on WDAE-AM’s “Countdown to Opening Day” podcast, Tampa Bay Rays presidents Matt Silverman and Brian Auld voiced their opinions on the storm-damaged Tropicana Field and strained relationships with local authorities.

The conversation aired nine days after St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch declared that the city would not chase a new stadium deal “at any cost” and a week after a city council meeting discussing the storm repairs for Tropicana Field.

Auld expressed that the aging stadium is cherished by the team, eagerly anticipating its reopening. However, he was frustrated by suggestions from city officials to only do the minimum repairs necessary for hosting baseball games, arguing, “That doesn’t synch with what I think our community is all about.”

He acknowledged the city’s need for fiscal responsibility in repairs but emphasized, “The bare minimum is just not how we run our organization, and it’s not what our fans in this city deserve.” He highlighted the Trop’s role in hosting various community events, from concerts to fostering children celebrations, and its potential as an emergency hub.

The executives supported plans to have the roofless stadium ready by the 2026 season, with Auld suggesting that extending the Trop’s utility beyond 2028 should be considered for the community’s sake.

Since Hurricane Milton destroyed the roof on October 9, 2024, the Trop has been exposed to the elements, with new problems arising daily. Auld believes the timeline for reconstruction is realistic but stressed the complexities of the municipal decision-making process.

Despite uncertainties, they committed to ensuring the Rays play in Tampa Bay in 2026, with or without the Trop, mentioning Steinbrenner Field as a potential temporary venue. Silverman criticized Pinellas County Commissioners for delays in the new ballpark negotiations, which he said “effectively broke” a deal in July after a bond vote was postponed in November 2024.

Silverman expressed deep disappointment in local governance, especially after the Rays had agreed to fund $700 million of the project, cover cost overruns, and secure necessary financing. He questioned the project’s financial viability for the team’s future competitiveness, with a decision deadline set for March 31. 

The emotional toll on the team was evident as Silverman described the feelings of surprise, confusion, upset, and sadness after dedicating significant effort to a project now in jeopardy.

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(Image credit: Will Vragovic/Tampa Bay Rays)