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Potential new player emerges in Rays ballpark battle

The Tampa Sports Authority, which already owns and oversees the major sports facilities in Hillsborough County, is adding a MLB ballpark to its potential portfolio.

The Tampa Sports Authority, which already owns and oversees the major sports facilities in Hillsborough County, is adding a MLB ballpark to its potential portfolio. But officials say they're not stepping into the debate over a new Tampa Bay Rays ballpark — yet.

As part of its long-term plan, the TSA is listing a ballpark as a potential project down the road. Two sites in Hillsborough County have been identified as the potential home to a new Rays ballpark. Whether a new ballpark will happens remains to be seen: St. Petersburg officials say they have an ironclad contract to keep the Rays at Tropicana Field through 2027, so any new-ballpark talks should come through St. Pete.

Still, the TSA's self-indentified involvement in the emerging debate over a new ballpark can't be good news for St. Pete officials — but it's great news for the Rays front office.

RELATED STORIES: Rays: Time to talk new ballpark again; Rays ballpark brawl: Tampa versus St. Pete; Three Rays ballpark sites recommended by committee; New Rays ballpark discussion shifts to Tampa; Group: Any new Rays ballpark needs retractable roof; Group: Renovating Trop isn't option in keeping Rays; Rays task force may have prelim recommendations by June — but no site; Rays propose Carillon Town Center site for ballpark

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