The Tampa Bay Devil Rays history is a key chapter in modern Major League Baseball. Founded in 1998, the franchise quickly made its mark on the league. Over time, Tampa Bay Devil Rays baseball built a loyal fan base, memorable players, and a strong identity that influenced the later success of today’s Tampa Bay Rays.
Established
1998
City
Tampa Bay
League History
2000 – Present / Major League Baseball
1998 – 1999 / American League
Team History
2008 – Present / Tampa Bay Rays
1998 – 2007 / Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Nickname
Devil Rays – Many fans don't know where the nickname originated when it comes to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, one of Major League Baseball’s most iconic teams. The truth is that when the team was founded in 1998, they had difficulty deciding what to call themselves. After much debate and consideration, they decided on “Devil Rays” as their official name and mascot.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays Origin
The origin of this unique moniker dates back to Florida's rich history with its abundance of marine life along its coastline, including manta rays and other sea creatures such as stingrays which can be found along Florida's Gulf Coast beaches. Some believed these creatures were devilish because they could surprise beachgoers with an unexpected electric shock if stepped upon or mishandled in any way! This led people in the Tampa Bay area to believe there might be something supernatural about them – thus giving rise to the name “Devil Rays."
In addition, since baseball is often referred to as "America's pastime," it only made sense for a team located near America's beautiful coastlines would have a fitting nickname like Devil Raysto represent not just baseball but also this part of our nation too! The logo chosen for the team further emphasizes this connection between sports and nature, featuring an aggressive-looking ray ready for battle alongside a traditional American eagle soaring above him - symbolizing strength within diversity - all set against two crossed bats representing classic Americana values like teamwork & perseverance!
Whether you are from Tampa or anywhere else around MLB stadiums across America, you can now proudly chant out loud: Go DEVIL RAYS!!!
Championship
World Series 0
Stadium
2025 - Present / George M. Steinbrenner Field
1998 – 2024 / Tropicana Field
Owner
2005 – Present / Stuart Sternberg
1998 – 2005 / Vince Naimoli
- 1995
- 1998
- 2003
- 2004
Tampa Bay Devil Rays Team Formation
Finally, on March 9, 1995, new expansion franchises were awarded to Naimoli’s Tampa Bay group and a group from Phoenix (the Arizona Diamondbacks). The new franchises were scheduled to begin to play in 1998. The Tampa Bay area finally had a team, but the stadium in St. Petersburg was already in need of an upgrade. In 1993, the stadium was ...
Tropicana Field
Tropicana Field (originally Florida Suncoast Dome and formerly Thunderdome) is a domed stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida that has been the home of Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays since the team’s inaugural season in 1998, when they were the Devil Rays. It is currently the only domed stadium in Major League Baseball that is not retractable. Tropicana Field is ...
Trade for Manager Lou Piniella
Before the 2003 season, the team traded Randy Winn to the Seattle Mariners for the right to negotiate with manager Lou Piniella, a Tampa native, who managed winning teams at every stop in his managerial career, including the New York Yankees, the Cincinnati Reds (whom he led to a World Series Trophy in 1990), and the Mariners. Piniella was attracted ...
Stuart Sternberg Ownership
Sternberg purchased a 48% plurality-share in the previously named Devil Rays (now known as the Tampa Bay Rays) in May 2004 from Vince Naimoli, and took over as Managing General Partner in October 2005. He arranged his bid for controlling interest in the team with fellow Goldman Sachs partner Matthew Silverman, whom he hired as the team’s President. He has ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays History
The Tampa Bay Devil Rays history began in 1998 when the franchise joined Major League Baseball as an expansion team under founder Vince Naimoli. Competing in the American League East Division from the start, the club faced early growing pains but built a unique identity. One of the most memorable milestones in Tampa Bay Devil Rays baseball was their 2008 World Series appearance against the Philadelphia Phillies, which introduced the team to a global audience.
Throughout the Tampa Bay Devil Rays history, one constant has been the loyalty of its fans. Despite periods of on-field struggles, supporters have consistently filled Tropicana Field, showing unwavering dedication. This passionate fan base helped shape the culture of Tampa Bay Devil Rays baseball, turning home games into spirited events regardless of standings or records.
The franchise also became known for developing talent within its farm system. Emerging stars like Blake Snell, who captured the AL Cy Young Award in 2018, reinforced the belief that Tampa Bay Devil Rays baseball could compete with larger-market teams. This internal pipeline remains crucial to the club’s long-term success.
Devil Rays Achievements
Since its formation, the team has grown from an expansion franchise to a legitimate contender. In addition to the 2008 American League pennant, the club captured multiple division titles in the 2010s and reached the 2020 World Series as the rebranded Tampa Bay Rays, a testament to the foundation laid during the Tampa Bay Devil Rays history.
Today, the legacy of Tampa Bay Devil Rays baseball continues to influence the current roster’s winning culture. With postseason appearances, award-winning players, and innovative management, the franchise has become one of MLB’s most respected organizations, proving that the spirit of the Devil Rays still drives the Rays’ success.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
12 / Wade Boggs
42 / Jackie Robinson
66 / Don Zimmer
*Blue is this team’s history