The Rays have been pursuing a new, retractable-roof stadium since 2007, due to Tropicana Field's outdated state. Despite St. Petersburg's preference for an open-air stadium and limited funding, negotiations persist.
Should talks fail, the Rays consider relocation, while St. Petersburg aims to keep them. Notably, Pat Williams, ex-co-owner of the Orlando Magic, has long proposed a $900 million publicly-funded stadium in Orlando, offering modern facilities and a sizable, flourishing market. Despite competition from two other professional teams, Williams contends the Rays could thrive in Orlando.
