Rays’ spring training plans uncertain because of hurricane damage

The Tampa Bay Rays and Charlotte County officials have determined that, because of damage from Hurricane Ian, which made landfall near Punta Gorda on Sept. 28, the Major League Baseball team will not be able to use Charlotte Sports Park for spring training.

The Rays and Charlotte County staff conducted a joint assessment of the facility and, according to a news release, “determined there is not adequate time before the Rays’ 2023 spring training is scheduled to begin to get the park in suitable condition to host games. Charlotte County supports the Rays’ efforts to secure alternative accommodations for 2023 spring training.”

Port Charlotte and Charlotte County, along with communities in nearby Collier and Lee counties, were among the hardest-hit areas when Ian swept across the Florida Peninsula.

“We are all disappointed for the residents of Charlotte County and the fans there,” the Rays state in the release. “The community is in the thoughts and hearts of the Rays, and the team will continue to support recovery efforts. The Rays and Charlotte County intend to develop a restoration plan for Charlotte Sports Park in the coming weeks.”

According to MLB.com, the Rays are scheduled to play their first spring training game of the 2023 season on Feb. 25 when they take on the Minnesota Twins at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers.