ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – While the Rays announce new food and beverage options, a new turf, and bringing back the Concert series, their goal is to win the World Series.
Rays GM Erik Neander is proud of the Rays’ recent track record of getting into the postseason, but that’s not the end goal.
“We’ve been able to win here and we truly, truly believe we can win a championship here,” Neander said as the Rays embark on the 2024 regular season. We’re all competitive here, and the chance to win the way we have will continue, and we will find a way to bring a World Series here.”
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That’s something that the Rays can’t control, but the fan experience is, and the Rays showed off some of their upgrades for fans at a press conference Wednesday at Tropicana Field.
The Rays even installed new striped turf, which makes it look like a mowed field. Coconut husks have replaced rubber pellets in the turf’s backfill. Even the warning track is new with Safeshell, which is crushed walnut shells. Outfielders will be able to hear when they step on the warning track, and the Rays are the only MLB franchise using this surface.
The on-field payroll is going up this season. Rays skipper Kevin Cash, who got an extension along with Neander, says he doesn’t want to be anywhere else and feels this Rays club is hungry to try and get over the hump. Just getting into the playoffs isn’t enough.
“There’s a freshness about this,: Cash said. “A lot to be excited about from the guys returning, and a lot of our new guys and young guys are going to compliment that group really, really well.
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The Rays won 99 games last season. Tampa Bay has won 95 games or more in three of their last five seasons. Oh and the 2020 season was a pandemica shortened one in which the Rays went 40-20. the players and coaches are doing their part to keep fans interested at the end of the season and management is doing their best to keep them entertained before, during and after most games.
Fans seemed to like the Concert Series and upper management has decided to start off with three concerts of different genres. July 26 after the Reds game alternative rock band Jimmy Eat World will perform. August 10 Country act Riley Green will entertain after the Rays/Orioles game. Florida Native hip-hop/R&B act T-pain will take to the stage after the Rays/Diamondbacks game.
Opening Day is right around the corner. Play Ball!
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