The Tampa Bay Rays are one of the surprise teams in baseball this season. The Rays have a history of overachieving and are doing so again. At 46-35, the Rays are just a half game back of the New York Yankees in the American League East standings. Due to their lack of a true home ballpark at the moment, the Rays could complicate things for MLB if they make the playoffs.
The Rays Have Spoken to MLB About Potential Playoff Issue
MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal detailed the potentially awkward situation if the Rays make the playoffs. MLB officials have talked to the Rays about potential home playoff sites. The Rays’ home ballpark, Tropicana Field, was severely damaged by Hurricane Milton. While the stadium is expected to be ready for play in 2026, the team is spending this season playing at the Yankees’ spring training home, George Steinbrenner Field.
Rosenthal notes that Steinbrenner Field may be suitable for the first two rounds of the playoffs, but the Rays would have to find a much larger stadium if they advance to the American League Championship Series or the World Series.
Drew Rasmussen, K’ing the Side in the 4th. pic.twitter.com/kqN7rIzXcJ
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) June 4, 2025
There are broadcasting logistics concerns to playing postseason games in a small minor league ballpark, as well as potential financial issues with Rays players possibly receiving a substantially lower amount of the postseason share due to playing in a smaller stadium.
Rosenthal also points out that the Rays may very well be out of the playoff race in the second half because their schedule is road-heavy. MLB front-loaded the Rays’ schedule with home games so they could avoid playing outdoors in the apex of Florida humidity without a roof. Though it’s not like the Rays have struggled on the road, as they are currently 18-12.
Brandon Lowe and Junior Caminero go back-to-back! 💪 pic.twitter.com/YjlFPSmBsG
— MLB (@MLB) June 26, 2025
Despite ranking 27th in payroll this season, the Rays are a playoff contender and one of the most complete teams in baseball. They currently rank first in stolen bases and are in the top 10 in team batting average and runs batted in. They are also in the top 10 in team ERA.
Several players have been standouts. First baseman Jonathan Aranda is third in the league in hitting with a .329 average, and former top prospect Junior Caminero looks like a future star at third base. Starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen is currently having his fifth straight season with an ERA under three.
The Rays likely are here to stay this season, which may complicate things in October.