Rays make over Tropicana Field, despite plans to leave

ST. PETERSBURG (FOX 13) - The Tampa Bay Rays are set to open their 2018 home season this week, and fans walking around Tropicana Field will notice some big changes.  

The Rays invested $7-million into the Trop site, allowing fans to take advantage of new restaurants, stores and new turf for the team to play on. 

Bill Walsh, vice president of strategy and development for the team, says fans will notice food from local restaurants on both sides of Tampa Bay. He called it the largest investment the team has made to Tropicana Field in the last decade, despite the face the team has announced the plan to build a new baseball stadium and move to Tampa in Ybor City. 

Walsh says the move is to draw and excite more fans during home games.  

“I think what we are focused on is our time here at Tropicana Field. We have a meaningful amount of time here and we're committed to creating the best fan experience as possible," he said. 

In addition to the food, fans can also buy new merchandise that celebrates the teams 20th season. 

The Rays’ home opener is Thursday at 4 p.m., against the division rival Boston Red Sox.