The Tampa Bay Rays are gearing up for their 2025 season in an unconventional way, as they face off against the New York Yankees in their spring training opener at George M. Steinbrenner Field. This matchup holds extra significance for both teams, with the Rays getting a sneak peek at their temporary home for the upcoming season following the devastation caused by Hurricane Milton.
In a surprising turn of events, Hurricane Milton tore through Tropicana Field last October, leaving the Rays without a home stadium for the 2025 season. However, the franchise quickly pivoted and announced that they would be playing their home games at George M. Steinbrenner Field, the spring training stadium of the Yankees and home of their Single-A affiliate, the Tampa Tarpons.
The Rays will have two opportunities to play at Steinbrenner Field during spring training, with their second game scheduled for March 23. This unique situation sets the stage for an intriguing regular season home opener for the Rays on March 28 against the Colorado Rockies.
For the Yankees, Friday’s game is a chance to showcase their veteran right-hander Marcus Stroman, who has been making headlines with his insistence on remaining a starting pitcher. While New York boasts a strong rotation that includes offseason acquisition Max Fried, Stroman will have the opportunity to prove his worth against Tampa Bay in this opening matchup.
Where to Watch Yankees vs. Rays Today: TV Channel, Live Stream
Fans eager to catch the action can tune in to the MLB Network for national coverage or the YES Network for local viewing. Additionally, viewers can stream the game live on Fubo, which offers a free trial for those looking to test the service before committing. With the ability to stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, and over 200 top channels, Fubo provides a comprehensive viewing experience for sports enthusiasts.
Yankees vs. Rays Start Time
The highly anticipated game is set to kick off at 1:05 p.m. ET on Friday, February 21 at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida. This marks an exciting moment for both teams as they take the field in this unique setting. As the Yankees’ spring training home and the temporary home of the Rays for the 2025 season, Steinbrenner Field sets the stage for an unforgettable matchup between these two powerhouse teams.
As the Rays and Yankees prepare to square off in their spring training opener, fans can expect an exciting display of talent and skill from both sides. With the backdrop of a new home for the Rays and high stakes for Stroman and the Yankees, this game promises to be a thrilling start to the 2025 MLB season. So, don’t miss out on the action as these two teams go head-to-head in a battle that is sure to set the tone for the season ahead.
