The principal owner of the Rays says it's unrealistic for his team to play full time in the Tampa Bay area, and a shared season with Montreal is the best option.
Stu Sternberg said at a news conference Tuesday he would be "hard-pressed" for the team to stay exclusively in Tampa or St. Petersburg. He believes "strongly in the sister-city concept" with Montreal and is "asking for open minds."
Tampa Bay is averaging less than 15,000 fans a game. Commissioner Rob Manfred says the Rays have "broad permission to explore what's available."
Tampa Bay Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg reacts while answering questions at a press conference at the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Fla., Tuesday, June 25, 2019. Sternberg spoke about exploring the prospect of playing some future home games in Montreal. At left is Rays President of Baseball Operations Matthew Silverman. (Scott KeelerTampa Bay Times via AP)
An agreement between the Rays and St. Petersburg for Tropicana Field runs through 2027. St. Petersburg's mayor has shot down the two-city possibility.
The Expos left Montreal after the 2004 season and became the Washington Nationals.
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Tampa Bay Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg listens to a question at a press conference at the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Fla., Tuesday, June 25, 2019. Sternberg spoke about exploring the prospect of playing some future home games in Montreal. (Scott KeelerTampa Bay Times via AP)
FILE - In this April 3, 2015, file photo, a fan holds up a sign during a pregame ceremony as the Toronto Blue Jays face the Cincinnati Reds in an exhibition baseball game in Montreal. The Tampa Bay Rays have received permission from Major League Baseball's executive council to explore a plan that could see the team split its home games between the Tampa Bay area and Montreal. (Paul ChiassonThe Canadian Press via AP, File)