Photo: Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The Tampa Bay Rays' owner Stu Sternberg was heckled by a fan holding a two-sided sign that read "$ELL STU" on one side and "$ELL" on the other during the team's home opener on Friday. The incident occurred at George M. Steinbrenner Field, where the Rays are temporarily playing due to damage at Tropicana Field caused by Hurricane Milton.
The fan, positioned near the owner's box, loudly called for Sternberg to sell the team, reflecting growing frustration among the fanbase over the team's uncertain future in Tampa Bay. The Rays' plans for a new stadium were recently scrapped, adding to the discontent.
Despite the off-field drama, the Rays managed to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Colorado Rockies, thanks to a walk-off home run by outfielder Kameron Misner. Sternberg, visibly uncomfortable during the encounter, has yet to comment on the incident.
The Rays' win provided a silver lining to an otherwise tense evening, as fans continue to hope for a resolution to the stadium saga and a more stable future for their beloved team.