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The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly being sold to a group led by Jacksonville developer Patrick Zalupski for approximately $1.7 billion. The sale, expected to close in September, includes plans to keep the team in the Tampa Bay area, possibly Tampa. The sale follows a long search for a new stadium, and the recent damage to Tropicana Field from Hurricane Milton. Previous stadium plans in St. Petersburg fell through due to funding issues. Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred expressed optimism about the Rays returning to a repaired Tropicana Field in 2026.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.