TAMPA, Fla. – The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the New York Yankees 1–0 Saturday night, bringing October baseball back to Tropicana Field nearly two years after Hurricane Milton left the future of the stadium and the Rays’ home games uncertain.
Read more What we know about the South Georgia shooting that left 5 dead
Supporters of both teams sold out the stadium.
Playoff baseball returns
The backstory:
The Rays returned to the Trop for their first home playoff game since the stadium underwent more than a year of repairs following Hurricane Milton.
Fans said being back for postseason baseball made the night especially meaningful.
Tim Smith, who traveled from New Port Richey with his family, said attending Rays games has become a family tradition.
“We try to make it a family event every time we come out,” Smith said.
The Yankees also had plenty of support inside the stadium.
Billy Morash and Stephan Lattanzio traveled from Port St. Lucie with their sons for the game. “We grew up together, and then these are our boys now, so we’re excited,” Morash said.
Read more Hillsborough County school board moves forward with affordable housing for employees
Lattanzio added, “Now the kids are growing up together. They’re coming to the game, so it’s exciting.”
Fans fill stadium
What they’re saying:
The rivalry was evident throughout the night, with fans from both sides cheering on their teams.
Some Rays fans even took the opportunity to poke fun at the visiting Yankees supporters.
The game also marked the first time the Yankees and Rays played a playoff game at Tropicana Field.
Series continues Monday
What’s next:
The American League Division Series continues Monday night at the Trop.
Game 2 is scheduled for an 8 p.m. first pitch.
About the Author
