Read the article from Tampa Bay Online

Devil Rays Keeping An Eye On Marlins' Stadium Effort

Published: Mar 3, 2005

ST. PETERSBURG - The Devil Rays are watching closely as the effort to build a new stadium for the Marlins in Miami approaches its latest hurdle - the Florida Legislature.

Still $30 million short of the estimated $420 million it will take to complete a 38,000-seat, retractable-roof stadium in time for the 2008 season, supporters of Miami's stadium effort will ask the Legislature to approve a $60 million sales tax rebate when the session begins next week.

Senate President Tom Lee of Brandon made news in January when he referred to threats by the Marlins to move to Las Vegas if they didn't get a stadium deal as ``blackmail.''

In a wide-ranging interview with The Tampa Tribune editorial board Tuesday, when asked about the proposed money for a new stadium for the Marlins, Lee said, ``I think it's going to be a tough sell in the Legislature.''

Since the Marlins' request began receiving publicity, Lee said, ``We've gotten a call from Vince Naimoli, we've gotten a call from NASCAR, from the [Orlando] Magic - the line's getting long.''

The Legislature, he said, may be concerned about setting a precedent by granting the money.

Asked what Naimoli had been requesting, Lee wasn't specific. He said Naimoli told him, ``There might be a point in the future where they [the Devil Rays] too had an issue.''

Namioli said Wednesday that the Rays' involvement hasn't moved beyond observation. The Rays' lease at Tropicana Field with the city of St. Petersburg runs through the year 2027.

``All the decision-makers need to remember,'' Naimoli said, ``is that there are two Major League Baseball teams in Florida.'' William March, Carter Gaddis

Does anyone know the buyout specifics for the rays on their park lease which runs through 2027? I have read its expensive big time but cant remember the specifics.