In their first trip to Steinbrenner Field of 2025, the Rays were still the guests. Before, during and after their 4-0, spring-opening loss, they saw signs of their pending regular season takeover, such as the expansion of the visiting clubhouse to meet Major League Baseball’s standards.

Among the upgrades to the facilities are a made-to-order kitchen, a players lounge and a two-story weight room.

Steinbrenner Field has been the Yankees' spring training home since 1996. But after Hurricane Milton damaged Tropicana Field, the Rays made a deal to play this coming season here.

While the Yankees will work in the significantly enhanced facility for the next six weeks, the Rays also will benefit. They will play 2025 home games there with Tropicana Field unavailable due to damage from Hurricane Milton. “The Rays are going to enjoy this,” Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole said.