Rays Support Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield with Custom Glove

ST. PETERSBURG -- The Tampa Bay Rays took time out of their busy schedule to assist fellow "Champa Bay" member, Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. Although the Rays focused on preparations for upcoming playoff games and incorporating changes at Tropicana Field, they responded to an unusual request from Mayfield concerning a special modification for his right thumb.

After a three-week absence due to a thumb injury, Mayfield used a custom-designed receiver’s glove created by Rays' clubhouse attendant Tyler Wall during the Buccaneers’ 43-13 victory over the Carolina Panthers. This glove provided the necessary support for his dislocated thumb, allowing him to make a touchdown pass in the second quarter. Mayfield expressed gratitude for the Rays’ assistance, stating, “They’ve done an incredible job helping me out to get where I’m at.”

This collaboration highlights the close-knit relationship between Tampa Bay’s professional sports teams, which have collectively enjoyed recent championship success. The Rays have yet to secure a World Series title, but the ongoing series against the Milwaukee Brewers has kept spirits high.

As the World Series approaches its third game at Tropicana Field, the sense of community among local teams remains strong. “It’s going to be a great story -- coming back and being able to play these next few games to get some momentum back,” said Rays outfielder Jonny DeLuca.

The Tropicana Field event marks the Rays' first World Series game there since 2008, following a 2020 series held in Arlington, Texas. The region has experienced notable sports moments, including the Buccaneers’ victory in Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium in 2021, and the Lightning's multiple Stanley Cup home games during recent seasons.

“Our fan base is incredible,” Rays shortstop Taylor Walls remarked, acknowledging the supportive community. While the Rays have their sights set on potential future championships, they recognize the impact of a bustling Tropicana Field on their home-field advantage.

“We’ve got to earn our way into Champa Bay,” said Rays CEO Ken Babby, expressing pride in the collaborative spirit shared with rival teams and the local universities. The connection is even more significant considering how the Yankees previously supported the Rays by providing a temporary home last season amid damage from Hurricane Ian.

Aside from the on-field relationships, Rays players often engage in attending games of the Buccaneers and Lightning. “Anytime there’s an opportunity where we’re not playing and they are, we’re always there in some capacity,” Walls added, reinforcing the tenacity of community support among Tampa Bay teams. Fans are encouraged to make Tropicana Field their home and contribute to a vibrant atmosphere for the playoff series ahead. As they gear up, the Rays anticipate both new developments in stadium infrastructure and continued championship aspirations moving forward.