Mayor Foster reveals his plan for keeping Rays

Bigger Cages, Longer Chains, Lower Catwalks!

My plan consists of three strategic elements: 1) ensuring that the legal integrity of the city’s agreement with the Rays is not compromised; 2) supporting private sector efforts to retain the Rays as a regional asset without compromising the city’s agreement with the Rays; and 3) continuing to support and promote the Rays as a professional sports franchise in west-central Florida.

...My role as mayor is not to sell newspapers, advance a personal agenda, or entertain on the airwaves, and it would be a dereliction of my duty if I were to act contrary to the best interests of the citizens and taxpayers of St. Petersburg, and I will take no action, public or private, that will diminish the position of the city in its future dealings with the Rays. Indeed, I would much prefer to work with the Rays to explore solutions. However, as I have stated many times before, the city is prepared to address all challenges and scenarios, and since some may be undesired and unpleasant, these details of the plan will remain confidential. Awkward, yes, but we must balance the public’s need to know now against the city’s future public interests.

My door is always open, and I remain ready, willing and able to have meaningful discussions with the Rays following the World Series. Their attention is better served on the field, and we certainly do not need any distractions at this critical time in the season. In the meantime, please support our Rays as we push for the playoffs. These young men have given us their all, and they deserve nothing less than the same from all of us in Tampa Bay. Go Rays!