Tropicana Field

TEAM :: TAMPA BAY RAYS

LOCATION :: ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA

MY FIRST GAME HERE :: OCTOBER 2, 1999

OPPONENT :: NEW YORK YANKEES

FORMERLY :: TAMPA BAY DEVIL RAYS

RATINGS

BALLFIELD ::: D
SCOREBOARD ::: A
FOOD ::: B
FACILITIES ::: B
MASCOT ::: B
MLB STADIUM RANK ::: 40 OF 40

MY TAKE ON THE PARK

Over the years my opinions have changed on parks I have visited. I can say that they have never changed so much as that I would want to change where I ranked them though.

All that changed on a recent visit to Tropicana Field, I have to say, I am not a fan of the Metrodome but believe it or not it is better than this place.

I hate negative reviews, generally they are too easy to write, so I will keep my negativity in check. They pipe in cowbell noise between pitches!! The field looks awful and the seats do not feel like that are attached to anything solid in many sections.

All of that said, it gets hot in Tampa and going inside to see a Rays game isn't the worst idea in the world. The Rays have also embraced the indoors by adding a Touch Tank in center field, giving the rays a good view of the game.

Arriving at the park $15 allows you to park, not bad for the majors. The lot is spacious and I would say could handle normal Rays crowds. I am sure there were issues during the playoff years.

During the game, aside from the annoying cowbell sound, the scoreboard does an excellent job of keeping everything up to date, I really like the scoreboard here. Fans here seem into the game but wonder how into it they would be if the scoreboard wasn't directing them.

A trip to Tampa is should be considered because the Rays do offer many promotions that make a game ticket somewhat of a bargain. I just don't see me returning to Tropicana Field in the near future.