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Tropicana Field

ByTom

Tropicana Field,St. Petersburg,FL,US Ball Park First Game Date – 3/31/1998 (1) Starting Pitchers – Devil Rays vs. Tigers: 3/31/1998 Final Score 11-6 (DET) Attendance – 45,369 Starting Pitchers Wilson Alvarez (TBA); Justin Thompson (DET) First Batter – Brian Hunter (DET) Result – Grounded to 1B First Hits – Tony Clark (DET),Singled to 2B (2nd) First


12,446 fans attend the Rays game during pennant race

ByThis Day in Baseball

With an opportunity to see their team clinch a postseason berth, only 12,446 fans attend the Rays game against Baltimore at Tropicana Field. The club, inspired by third baseman Evan Longoria’s criticism of the low attendance figures, will make 20,000 free tickets available in the finale of the series in an effort get more ‘energy’ into the domed ballpark. “It’s a tough situation for us. A lot of the visiting teams come in and wonder where are all the fans. It’s actually a little bit embarrassing for us. We’re one game away from clinching a postseason spot.” – EVAN LONGORIA,Rays third baseman commenting on team’s low attendance.

Philadelphia Phillies edge the host Tampa Bay Rays in Game 1 of the World Series, 3 – 2 behind a gem from Cole Hamels

Philadelphia Phillies edge the host Tampa Bay Rays in Game 1 of the World Series, 3 – 2 behind a gem from Cole Hamels

ByThis Day in Baseball

2008 – At Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, the Philadelphia Phillies edge the host Tampa Bay Rays in Game 1 of the World Series, 3 – 2 behind a gem from Cole Hamels. The Fightin’ Phils get a home run from star second baseman Chase Utley in his first-ever World Series plate appearance. “Lights Out” closer Brad Lidge gains the save with a 1-2-3 9th inning.

Instant replay is used for the first time in a major league game

ByThis Day in Baseball

Instant replay is used for the first time in a major league game. Alex Rodriguez homers to left off Troy Percival in the 9th as part of a 8 – 4 Yankees win over the Rays. Umpire Brian Runge calls it a homer and has his call upheld upon review.