Steinbrenner Field in Tampa is set for a major upgrade, with $40 million in renovations backed by Hillsborough County and the New York Yankees—strengthening the team’s long-standing partnership with the city.
Yankees and Tampa Deepen Ties with $40M Steinbrenner Field Renovation
By Jim Williams
Senior Writer, Capital Sports Network
The New York Yankees and Hillsborough County are teaming up to deliver a transformative renovation to George M. Steinbrenner Field, the Yankees’ spring training home in Tampa, Florida. The $40 million project—funded through a combination of $17.9 million in county tourism tax revenue and $22 million from the Yankees—will modernize the stadium and elevate the fan experience for years to come.
The upgrades come after a unique 2025 season in which the Tampa Bay Rays played all 81 home games at Steinbrenner Field due to hurricane damage at Tropicana Field. That experience highlighted the stadium’s strengths—and its need for enhancements to handle Florida’s intense summer heat.
What’s Coming to Steinbrenner Field
The renovation plan includes:
- New shaded seating areas to improve comfort during hot weather
- A redesigned entry plaza for smoother fan access
- Upgraded sound and security systems, including magnetometers and surveillance cameras
- A state-of-the-art scoreboard to enhance game-day visuals
- Repaved parking lots and updated air conditioning units for better infrastructure
Commissioner Ken Hagan emphasized the importance of maintaining the county-owned facility, calling it a “first-class asset” that draws thousands of tourists each spring. “The ballpark generates significant room nights from fans who travel here each spring for Yankees games,” Hagan said.
Hal Steinbrenner’s Commitment to Tampa
Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner has long championed the team’s relationship with Tampa, where the Yankees have trained since 1996. The franchise’s investment in the stadium reflects its deep roots in the community and its commitment to keeping Steinbrenner Field among the best spring training venues in Major League Baseball.
Rays Stadium Talks Continue Nearby
Meanwhile, Hillsborough County is also in early discussions with the new Tampa Bay Rays ownership group about potential sites for a permanent stadium. One location under consideration is the Hillsborough Community College Dale Mabry campus, adjacent to Steinbrenner Field.
Commissioner Hagan sees no conflict between the two projects. “There’s absolutely room, not only for a ballpark, but for the surrounding development the new owners want,” he said. Shared infrastructure could even offer logistical and economic benefits.
While no formal proposal has been submitted by the Rays, meetings are expected this week to explore options and align on next steps. The county remains in a “waiting pattern” until the ownership group identifies its preferred site.
