Rays clinch AL pennant and World Series berth as rebuilt Tropicana Field shines

In October 2024, the Tampa Bay Rays won the American League pennant and earned a World Series berth, prompting a festive scene at Tropicana Field where fans, players and families tossed confetti across the outfield. The stadium, once gutted by Hurricane Milton’s ripped-off roof, was restored thanks to a $59.7 million investment from the City of St. Petersburg, a decision defended by Beth Herendeen despite early doubts.

Workers labored six days a week for 18 months to rebuild the roof, overcoming supply delays linked to a distant volcanic eruption. During the celebration, Rays CEO Ken Babby called the turnaround a “great American comeback story,” while mayors Ken Welch and Jane Castor threw ceremonial first pitches together. Longtime radio voice Andy Freed, who had visited the wreckage months earlier, led the ceremony, noting the emotional weight of the return. Though the team plans to move to a new Tampa stadium by 2029, this unexpected World Series run underscores the community’s perseverance after disaster.