Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reportedly expressed his support for keeping the Tampa Bay Rays in the region following the collapse of a stadium deal.
During a news conference in Palmetto, he highlighted the potential of the Tampa Bay sports market, suggesting that the Rays could draw larger crowds if they replicate the success of other local teams, such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Rays recently announced they would not proceed with a proposed $1.3 billion stadium in St. Petersburg. While DeSantis did not comment on the negotiations with Pinellas County, he emphasized the importance of retaining a Major League Baseball team in Florida, citing the region’s rapid growth and its status as a significant sports market.
DeSantis acknowledged the challenges posed by high construction costs and damage to Tropicana Field from Hurricane Milton, which has led to the Rays playing home games at Steinbrenner Field, the New York Yankees’ spring training facility. He stated, “We’re one of the fastest-growing markets in the country, and there’s no way that it can’t be successful.”
In addition to discussing the Rays, DeSantis addressed efforts to combat illegal immigration, announcing agreements with local law enforcement to enforce immigration laws.
He confirmed that all 67 sheriff’s offices in Florida have signed onto this initiative.
DeSantis also announced a $2 million grant for SeaPort Manatee to fund infrastructure improvements, reinforcing its importance to the state’s economy.
This funding will enhance the port’s capabilities, supporting its role as a key deep-water seaport in Southwest Florida. Overall, DeSantis’s remarks reflect his commitment to both the local sports landscape and broader economic initiatives in the region.
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