Rays Set to Reconnect With Fans at Tropicana Field Fan Fest, Eye Bullpen Depth and ABS Adjustments in Camp
PORT CHARLOTTE - After a year away from their longtime home, the Rays are gearing up for a return to Tropicana Field - and they’re doing it with a celebration. On Saturday, the team will host a Fan Fest Block Party just outside the stadium, marking a symbolic step back toward normalcy following the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Milton that forced them out last season.
This year’s Fan Fest won’t be inside the dome, but just west of it, along 16th Street South. The event runs from 1 to 5 p.m., and while admission is free, fans will need a mobile ticket to get in (details at raysbaseball.com/FanFest). Parking is also free in stadium lots 1, 2, 6 and 7.
As always, the Fan Fest is built for all ages - think tailgate-style games, family-friendly activities, player and mascot appearances, and a photo booth. There’s also a “yard sale” of team merchandise, including bobbleheads, hats, shirts, and even autographed or game-used jerseys and gear. It’s a chance for fans to get their hands on a piece of the team - literally.
What to Watch For at Fan Fest
There’s a full slate of scheduled programming (subject to change, of course), starting with Rays CEO Ken Babby taking the stage at 1:40 p.m. to talk about the franchise’s future. Expect some insight into the new ownership group’s vision - and likely a few hints about the proposed new stadium in Tampa.
At 2:10 p.m., the “Inside The Game” panel will give fans a rare glimpse into the minds shaping the product on the field. President of baseball operations Erik Neander, manager Kevin Cash, assistant hitting coach Ozzie Timmons, and senior adviser Brandon Hyde will break down the state of the team and what to expect heading into 2026.
Then at 3 p.m., things take a lighter turn with “The Players Show.” Expect laughs and a little chaos, with pitcher Ryan Pepiot, outfielder Jonny DeLuca, and the always-entertaining Brett Phillips - now back in the fold as a team ambassador - bringing the energy.
Finally, at 3:40 p.m., three of the Rays’ top prospects - Brody Hopkins, Dom Keegan, and Tre’ Morgan - will sit down for a discussion about their development and what lies ahead. For fans keeping an eye on the farm system, this is a must-watch.
Bullpen Plans Taking Shape in Camp
While Fan Fest is the headline event this weekend, the real work is happening in Port Charlotte, where the Rays are already deep into spring training prep. One key storyline: how the bullpen will be constructed, especially early in the season.
With uncertainty around how deep the starters will be able to go in the opening weeks, the Rays are preparing to carry two long relievers - guys who can give them three to four innings if needed. That means they’re stretching out five to six pitchers with that role in mind, then making final decisions by mid-March.
Names to watch in that mix include Joe Boyle, Mason Englert, Yoendrys Gomez, Jesse Scholtens, and Ian Seymour. Englert, in particular, is drawing attention. He threw live batting practice on Friday alongside reliever Griffin Jax, and Cash noted that his four-pitch mix makes him an appealing option for that swingman role.
Getting Comfortable With the ABS Challenge System
This season also brings a new wrinkle: the implementation of the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system. It’s not full robot umps just yet - but it does allow pitchers, catchers, and hitters to challenge calls.
To get players used to the system, the Rays have set up ABS on two of their practice fields. There’s no scoreboard replay like there will be in games, but the goal is to build the habit early.
“We’re trying to get the catchers and the hitter to be pretty active,” Cash said. “Challenge whatever you want to challenge, just to get a sense of it.”
Camp Notes: Diaz, Lux, and Olivares Yet to Arrive
As of Friday afternoon, nearly the entire roster had reported to camp - with the exception of veteran DH Yandy Diaz, second baseman Gavin Lux, and non-roster outfielder Edward Olivares. Their arrivals are expected soon, but for now, the rest of the squad is getting after it.
There won’t be an official workout on Saturday due to the Fan Fest festivities, and the Port Charlotte complex will be closed to fans. But on the field, Cash has been pleased with what he’s seen - particularly from infielders Junior Caminero, Jonathan Aranda, and Taylor Walls, who’ve been going full throttle in defensive drills.
The Rays are heading into 2026 with a mix of familiar faces, new voices in leadership, and a few intriguing wrinkles - both on the field and off. Saturday’s Fan Fest is more than just a party; it’s a celebration of a franchise looking to reestablish its home base, reconnect with its fans, and lay the groundwork for what’s shaping up to be a compelling season.