Tampa Bay Rays executives are formally starting their search for a new stadium site with a trip across the bay.
They are meeting with Tampa and Hillsborough County officials for the first time since a deal between the team and St. Petersburg allowing such a search.
The Rays say a new ballpark must be on at least 20 acres, be accessible to major roads and future mass transit, and close to population centers.
Team officials will go through their own process for selecting potential stadium sites, not just in Hillsborough but in Pinellas County too.
The team is contracted to play home games at Tropicana Field through the 2027 season.
They would pay millions to St. Petersburg if they leave early.
