After their improbable World Series run in 2008, many fans and analysts expected the 2009 Tampa Bay Rays club to be as good or better.
They’re not.
Since the Stuart Sternberg ownership era began in 2006, Cool Hand Stu could do no wrong. Free parking at home games. Fans were allowed to bring their own food to games, and tailgating in the parking lot on game day was encouraged. Ballpark attractions on Left, Center, and Right Field Streets beyond the outfield stands really enhanced the stadium experience for casual fans. There aren’t many ballparks that let you play baseball video games in a lounge area that looks like the Formans’ basement on “That 70’s Show.”
