The Tampa Bay Rays offense is facing unexpected challenges at Steinbrenner Field, their temporary home park, with players citing inconsistent wind conditions as a primary factor. The struggles come after the team was swept in a recent three-game series, scoring only three runs.
Veteran outfielder Brandon Lowe stated openly the difficulty of hitting at the stadium. This contradicts initial expectations announced last November that the park would be hitter-friendly. Those expectations arose after the Rays moved to the Yankees' spring stadium due to damage at Tropicana Field from Hurricane Milton.
Through their first 22 home games, the Rays have struggled to produce runs. They have been shut out four times at home and scored one or two runs in seven other contests. Their average of four runs per game ranked 23rd in the majors through Thursday, with lower rankings in OPS, homers per game, and batting average.
While some hitters noted issues with the lights and smaller outfield space, the most frequent complaint involves the wind. Catcher Danny Jansen described it as an "evolving thing on any given night," requiring players to adjust.
Pitcher Zack Littell observed that the stadium's low profile, lacking significant structures like an upper deck, allows unimpeded wind throughout games. He noted the wind often seems to hurt more when blowing in than it helps when blowing out.
The inconsistency has affected players' mentality. Lowe explained the frustration of hitting balls well that do not fall for hits, leading players to potentially alter their approach. Designated hitter Yandy Diaz, whose four home runs have all occurred at home, echoed this, noting balls expected to leave the park have stayed in.
Bench coach Rodney Linares expressed concern that some players are changing their hitting strategies at Steinbrenner Field, moving away from their strengths. Third-base coach Brady Williams admitted trying to figure out the park's unique combination of dimensions, wind, and lack of foul territory.
Statcast data suggests Steinbrenner Field plays slightly above average offensively overall. However, it also indicates environmental factors, likely wind, have reduced the distance of hard-hit drives toward the middle of the field by a majors-most nine feet. Visiting teams have also hit well there, accounting for 31 of the 52 home runs hit in the park.
ESPN analyst and former Yankee David Cone suggested the ball might carry more as the weather warms and humidity increases.
