Rays Partnered with Legends for New Ballpark Project
The Tampa Bay Rays tapped Legends Global to manage the development and sales of their future $2.3 billion stadium.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Baseball
Live Poll
Does a partnership between your home team and a rival's business affiliate change your team loyalty?
The Tampa Bay Rays have officially partnered with Legends Global to spearhead sales and construction oversight for their new ballpark. The project, estimated at $2.3 billion, will be located on the Hillsborough College site adjacent to Steinbrenner Field.
Why it matters
The collaboration aims to leverage the extensive experience of Legends Global to ensure quality and logistical precision for the team's massive facility investment. The partnership serves as a critical step in finalizing the stadium's development, budgeting, and commercial strategy ahead of its target opening.
The project carries a $2.3 billion price tag for the new facility. Legends Global currently provides specialized management and consulting services to more than 450 venues across the globe.
The players
Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays are a professional Major League Baseball team based in the Tampa Bay area.
Legends Global
Legends Global is a venue management and premium experience company co-owned by a Yankees affiliate.
Todd Fleming
Todd Fleming is the designated leader for the Tampa-based team tasked with managing the partnership.
The details
Legends Global will serve as the owner's representative, taking control of project budgeting, scheduling, risk mitigation, and quality assurance during construction. Beyond construction, the firm will handle market analysis and sales execution for premium seating, sponsorships, and hospitality services.
Timeline
November 2026: Sales for suites and clubs begin for existing holders.
January 2027: Season members receive purchase invitations.
Early 2027: Deposit holders receive purchase invitations.
2029: The team plans for the new ballpark to open.
Season Trajectory
The development marks a long-term shift in the franchise's infrastructure, signaling a move toward a high-capacity facility that mirrors modern luxury standards in professional sports. This expansion impacts the team's long-term financial landscape as they prepare for a 2029 transition into the new home.
Current suite holders will gain first access to new purchase opportunities starting in November 2026. This timeline defines the window for fans and premium members to secure their priority access for the 2029 stadium opening.
The takeaway
The partnership indicates a major commitment to upgrading the fan experience with high-end premium seating and club options. Fans should monitor their accounts for future purchasing communications starting in 2026 to secure their spots in the new venue.
What happens next
Suite and club sales are scheduled to begin for existing holders in November 2026, followed by purchase invitations for season members and deposit holders in early 2027.
Further reading
For more background on the local professional sports landscape, visit the Baseball section.
Live Poll
Does a partnership between your home team and a rival's business affiliate change your team loyalty?
