03.11.2025

75º | 10% chance of precipitation

Sunrise 7:43 a.m. | Sunset 7:36 p.m.

Tides | Old Tampa Bay | High: 3:58 p.m. | Low: 8:58 a.m. + 8:20 p.m.

Clearwater Beach | High: 12:09 p.m. + 11:06 p.m. | Low: 4:58 p.m.

Full Weather Report | Traffic Report

What’ll it be, Stu?

A rendering of the Rays new proposed stadium, showing fans inside a ballpark.

The Rays potential home if they do stay in TBAY. | Rendering via Tampa Bay Rays

There’s less than a month left for the Rays to meet their deadline to get public funding for the new $1.3 billion stadium. But it appears Rays owner Stu Sternberg is fielding some offers to buy the St. Pete squad.

To who?

The Tampa Bay Times reports that one potential buyer is a Tampa-based group of investors led by Joe Molloy. The now-CEO of JAM Sports Ventures is also a former managing partner of the New York Yankees.

But that’s not all. A member of the DeBartolo family — who owns the San Francisco 49ers — is also reportedly part of the group.

And yes, there are other prospective buyers. Area businessman Dan Doyle Jr. has signified interest, according to The Athletic. Plus, Tampa attorney Carter McCain is part of another yet group interested in minority ownership, the Tampa Bay Times also reports.

Plus, The Athletic reports that MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and other team owners are pushing Sternberg to sell. Manfred is considering taking away some of the Rays’ revenue-sharing income — which comes out to around $60 million — to force a move.

Will the Rays move?

Asked

Should Stu Sternberg sell the Rays?

A. No
B. Yes
C. I’m torn up about it
D. I’m not sure

Cast your vote

Events

Tuesday, March 11

“Welcome to Florida” launch | 7-8 p.m. | Tombolo Books, St. Petersburg | $5 | Join the author, Craig Pittman, and local historian Paul Wilborn for a conversation about what makes Florida “The Most Interesting State.”

Wednesday, March 12

Cover to Cover | 5:30-9:30 p.m. | Water Street Tampa | Free entry | It’s an adult booklover’s dream complete with cozy reading nooks and pop-up booksellers.

Sips & Stems Workshop: The Art of Florida Design | 6-9 p.m. | The Tampa Edition | $195 | Let the folks from the Tailored Twig guide you in designing a balanced and unique arrangement of spring blooms over a cocktail and charcuterie board.

“The Pillowman” | Wednesday, March 12-Sunday, April 6 | Times vary | The Straz Center for the Performing Arts | $30+ | Sit back for this comedy about a fiction writer living in an unnamed totalitarian state whose life starts to resemble their short stories.

Thursday, March 13

Downtown’s Bike to Work Ride & Rally | 7:15-9 a.m. | Bike to Lykes Gaslight Park | Free | Join other cyclists and Mayor Jane Castor in biking downtown in honor of Florida Bike Month.

Reggae Rise Up | Thursday, March 13-Sunday, March 16 | 4 p.m. | Vinoy Park | $70+ | Jam out to reggae beats on the Burg’s waterfront with acts like Slightly Stoopid, Dirty Heads, and Stephen Marley.

Toget[HER] | 4-8 p.m. | Hyde Park Village | $30+ | Join women for a night of networking and a panel highlighting visionaries in business, wellness, and sports, featuring leaders from BMO Wealth Management and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.

Friday, March 14

New York Yankees vs. Philadelphia Phillies | 6:35 p.m. | George M. Steinbrenner Field | $75+ | Get an up-close glimpse of Cody Bellinger or Christian Arroyo as the storied ball clubs battle it out.

Events calendar here

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News Notes

Sports

In other Champa Bay news, Chris Godwin just inked a new three-year, $66 million — with $44 million guaranteed — contract extension with the Bucs. The wide receiver holds the second-most yards and touchdowns in Bucs history, after Mike Evans, of course. (Sports Illustrated)

Development

What’s the latest on St. Pete Trails Crossing? Civil engineers got the greenlight to start the master planning process for the project, which will transform the underside of I-275. The project will connect areas like the EDGE District and Deuces Live, and feature a dog park, green amphitheater, and plaza. (St. Pete Catalyst)

Plan Ahead

TEDx takes over Tampa later this spring. The “Lift As You Climb” TEDx conference is booked for Friday, May 2 at 7 p.m., and features 10 speakers. Who’s in the lineup? The list includes CEOs, an actor and director, and other thought leaders. (That’s So Tampa)

Transit

Spring break is nigh, TBAY. To help cut down on traffic, the Clearwater Ferry is up and running, taking passengers from downtown to the beach. PSTA also just launched the new Grouper Airport Express, offering low-cost rides to St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport. (I Love the Burg)

History

Ybor City’s Columbia Restaurant’s tiles are getting a refresh. The century old restaurant’s tile murals are undergoing a restoration and replacement process. The restaurant’s longtime artist is working alongside his daughter to craft new ceramic tiles — which should last through about 25 years of TBAY sun and storms. (Tampa Bay Times)

Announced

Rob Lorei is making major moves. The host of WEDU’s “Florida This Week” is stepping down after nearly a quarter century at its helm due to cancer. But fans can look forward to Lorei’s new show, “Perspectives.” We’ll keep you posted on a launch date. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)

Arts

The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum’s stunning new wing features seven all-new galleries and nine exhibitions, including a rare Chihuly glass sculpture. Plan your visit to experience 14,000 sqft of updates.*

Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David agrees to return on a one-year deal worth up to $10 million. Get game coverage, analysis, insights, interviews, and more from local experts of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Locked On’s daily podcasts.

Tech

HP Instant Ink smart printers automatically monitor ink levels and send new cartridges directly to your door before you run out. Get a $10 welcome credit.*

Announced

We’re excited to introduce a new way to reach our readers — a limited-time digital display bundle + branded content bundle. Each bundle saves you 20% and includes at least three newsletter placements.

The Buy

Introducing: Nordstrom Rack best-sellers you wish you bought sooner. Thank us later.

👟 These slip-on platform sneakers perfect for running errands.
✨ This textured 18k gold-plated cuff bracelet that’s 75% off.
👚 This scallop hem blouse for an elevated yet casual look.
👖 A pair of high rise boot cut jeans available in sizes 2-16.
💖 This timeless Kate Spade saddle bag that will never go out of style.

More worth The Buy

The Wrap

Tampa’s Ya La’ford is calling on Beyoncé to visit her latest exhibit inspired by the American West at the James. In case you’re reading this, Bey, we’d highly recommend.

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