Huge props to Saturday’s Trib for comparing the D-Rays’ changing ownership to that of the Lightning almost seven years ago. It’s the same thing as before: a new owner with deeper pockets comes in to put more money into players, facilities, etc.
Millions of dollars later, the Bolts claim a championship (2004 Stanley Cup), putting them in the same standing as the Bucs (Super Bowl XXXVII) and even the Storm (not one, not two, but five ArenaBowls).
Now it’s the Rays’ turn. Whether Sternberg & Co. have enough millions and patience to wait for a championship someday remains to be seen, or even if the new colors inside that barn known as Tropicana Field inspire new hustle by the players. Getting rid of those goofy leaves on the outfield walls is enough to make me want to run the bases again.
No matter what happens this season, it’s still better than the old order, led by a humorless boss who evidently treated police as badly as he treated fans.
Hope springs eternal on Opening Day. Who’s willing to give Tampa Bay baseball one more chance?
Sandy
3 years ago
I’m thinking the newer, younger and hopefully hipper owners might just be able to turn things around. Namoli was a head case with fake big pockets and a piss-poor attitude. Hell, these new guys got me right off with the witty “Under Construction” commercials. They seem to have a real sense of humor and willingness to do what it takes to make a great team…not just the desire to OWN a great team that never really panned out. I’ve been p.o.’d with baseball since the strike but, hell, you gotta root for the home team.
Smitty
3 years ago
Aww, it’s baseball. I’ll give ‘em another chance any time they want. It would be nice to see the Rays become a team worth going to see in their own right, instead of only when my beloved Orioles come play. Here’s hoping.
tim
3 years ago
I went to last night’s home opener. Most fans left with a card that was good for two or four tickets to any upcoming monday-thursday game, some in outfield sections, some in field box seats. Really cool. Lots of other free stuff, the place has been painted and looks really fancy… as good as its terrible architecture can look, at least.