Hillsborough County's Board of Commissioners is ready to talk to the Tampa Bay Rays about the team's future, one that could include a home in Hillsborough County.
Commissioners voted to send a letter to the franchise inviting them to a public meeting at the county building. The board wants to learn more about the Rays' long term goals, which include whether the team wants to move to Hillsborough County, stay in Pinellas, or leave the area all together.
"Despite making the playoffs three out of the last four years, the Rays continue to have the second worst attendance in baseball," said Commissioner Ken Hagan.
Officials from both sides of the Bay worry that's enough to make the franchise leave the area altogether. Adding fuel to the fire, MLB Commissioner Bud Selig says the team needs a new stadium, something Pinellas County hasn't been able to do.
"I have great respect for our sister communities St. Petersburg and Pinellas County, unfortunately however they have repeatedly chosen to sit the sidelines," said Commissioner Hagan.
It won't be simple to bring baseball to the other side of the bay. The franchise is locked in a 15 year contract with St. Petersburg. That's why the Hillsborough County attorney cautioned commissioners to keep the talks broad, and stay away from specifics like cost of a new stadium or an exact location.
Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg sounds like he's willing to step up to the plate. A spokesperson released a statement from him Thursday:
"Since 2008 we have suggested regional dialogue to ensure the successful future of MLB in the Tampa Bay region. We greatly appreciate the Hillsborough County Commission's action today and look forward to the progress which this regional discussion can bring."
Commissioners don't have a date in mind for the possible presentation. But they say if the Rays agree to meet, it will be after the season is over.