Tropicana Field

The city and county will conduct a feasibility study that will help determine if there's a market demand for convention space, as well as the impact it would have on the economy and tourism.

With the team negotiating a deal that would make relocation unlikely, the lawyer and investor in the Orlando Dreamers says "the Tampa area does not compare with Orange County" for baseball.

The Rays confirmed that they have begun exclusive discussions with a group led by billionaire Patrick Zalupski that also includes unspecified Tampa Bay investors. The local involvement could mean the team stays in the region.

While the Rays unwind their stadium conundrum, Mayor Jerry Demings says he’s been approached by more than one group, but more details are needed as well as talks on how his county would benefit.

The city council agreed to extend contracts with security, design and disaster recovery companies. The city’s engineering director said the project will not exceed the $55 million projection.

A general consensus among panelists was that the property should honor its roots while keeping the future in mind.

Castor said all Tampa officials can do is prepare for a phone call from the Rays' owners.

Bobbleheads, hats, shirts and drinkware will be among “thousands of items” available on Saturday. For $20, shoppers can fill a bag and get vouchers for two tickets to a Rays game at Steinbrenner Field.

Gov. Ron DeSantis said the state would only help with infrastructure. He also wouldn't back the Rays playing in Tampa Bay or Orlando, but suggested different ownership could help the team succeed.

St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch discusses the uncertainty around the Tampa Bay Rays, the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District, and other topics.

After meeting with the Rays to "check some legal boxes" on the site, Mayor Ken Welch signaled a new willingness to discuss a five- or 10-year extension of the team's lease – under the right conditions.

The group seeking to attract a team - perhaps the Tampa Bay Rays - says John Morgan, founder of the Morgan & Morgan law firm, is also financially involved in the effort.