To avoid summer heat and rain, the Rays are changing game times for the upcoming season

For March, April, and May, most weeknight games will start at 7:05 PM. But come June 3, they’ll shift to 7:35 PM. This way, they can wait for those pesky afternoon showers to pass and let the temperature cool down a bit.
Sunday games in April and May will kick off at 1:40 PM, but starting June 8, they’ll be at 12:10 PM. Saturday times will vary, so keep an eye out for those.
Bill Walsh, the chief business officer, mentioned that they’re gearing up for the 2025 season with a focus on creating a great experience for fans. They’ve worked with MLB to set a schedule that takes weather and local events into account.
Interestingly, they also had to plan around two Metallica concerts at Raymond James Stadium, which is right across the highway. On June 6, the Rays will play the Marlins at 1:10 PM, and on June 8, the game will start at 12:10 PM.
Last season, most weeknight games started at 6:50 PM, and in 2023, it was 6:40 PM. This year, they have 28 home games set for 7:05 PM, 25 at 7:35 PM, and a mix of other times throughout the season.
Due to Hurricane Milton causing damage to Tropicana Field, the Rays will be playing their 2025 home games in Tampa. They plan to open stadium gates 90 minutes before the first pitch and parking lots three hours ahead. Sounds like they’re all set for a fun season ahead!