Rays’ New Dawn: Ownership, Stadium Talks, and a Roster Reset

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New Ownership & Stadium Vision

On September 30, 2025, the Rays were officially sold to an ownership group led by Orlando-based developer Patrick Zalupski for an estimated $1.7 billion. The new regime has wasted no time addressing the club’s long-term future:

CEO Ken Babby: The founder of Fast Forward Sports Group was appointed CEO and is leading the charge on stadium infrastructure.
Hillsborough Community College Proposal: The team is currently in active negotiations with Hillsborough Community College (HCC) to redevelop its Dale Mabry campus. The proposed site—located across from Raymond James Stadium—would feature a new fixed-roof ballpark anchored by a mixed-use district of retail and housing.
Returning to the “Trop”: After spending the 2025 season at George M. Steinbrenner Field due to hurricane damage at their home park, the Rays will officially return to Tropicana Field for the 2026 season.

Broadcast Transition

The team’s television landscape is in flux following the termination of their contract with FanDuel Sports Network (formerly Bally Sports).

MLB Media Takeover: Major League Baseball will take over the production and distribution of Rays games for 2026, ensuring fans can stream games without local blackouts via the MLB app.
The Voices of the Rays: While the platform has changed, the beloved duo of DeWayne Staats and Brian Anderson (BA) are expected to return to the booth.

The Blockbuster Shuffle

The front office was aggressive this winter, executing several “earthquake” trades to replenish the farm system and manage payroll.

The Pirates Trade: In a major surprise, All-Star 2B Brandon Lowe, speedster Jake Mangum, and LHP Mason Montgomery were traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Lowe is coming off a massive 31-HR, 83-RBI season.
The Baz Departure: RHP Shane Baz, who led the staff in strikeouts last year, was dealt to the Baltimore Orioles. In return, the Rays received a significant prospect haul headlined by catcher Caden Bodine and outfielder Slater de Brun.
Pete Fairbanks: The Rays notably declined the team option on closer Pete Fairbanks, allowing the veteran firebrand to enter free agency.

Spring Training & Roster Outlook

Spring Training is officially underway in Port Charlotte, with the full squad reporting as of February 17. The Rays will play their first Grapefruit League game against the Atlanta Braves on February 20.

The Return of Shane McClanahan: After missing the last two seasons due to Tommy John surgery and a triceps nerve issue, the “Sugar” Shane is healthy and expected to anchor the 2026 rotation.
Junior Caminero: Following a stellar rookie campaign, the young phenom enters 2026 as the centerpiece of the Rays’ offense.
New Faces: The clubhouse welcomes several key veterans, including RHP Steven Matz, CF Cedric Mullins, and IF Gavin Lux, along with versatile arm Nick Martinez.