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Sternberg Vows To Stay Patient

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By JOEY JOHNSTON | The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 16, 2008

ST. PETERSBURG - Tropicana Field was not sold out on Monday night.

Even though it was the most important home game in Rays franchise history. Even though the Boston Red Sox were fighting the Rays for leadership of the American League East. And midway through the Red Sox's 13-5 romp, many Tampa Bay supporters were headed home.

Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg said he's focusing on the fans who do come - and on Tampa Bay's gratifying rise to postseason contender.

He's remaining patient - for now.

"The proof of fan support will be next year, once people have gotten used to the fact we're actually a winning organization and an organization they're proud of, once they see that from Day One," Sternberg said in a pregame interview. "If we're having these conversations a year from now, I might have a different answer for you."

Attendance was 29,772 (about 6,276 short of a sellout). There were rows and rows of empty seats adjacent to each foul pole. And all around, there was a large contingent of red-clad Boston fans.

Sternberg - again, for now - emphasized the joy of Tampa Bay's breakout season.

"Fun is the operative word," he said. "This season has been a tremendous success - and it will be even more of a success, the longer it goes on. You never expect to be in first place in a division such as this. ... But you have a plan, you stick with it and believe in the plan. And here we are."

Sternberg said he has seen people wearing Rays' caps in New York. Sometimes, he stops them to ask why. Nice logo. Love the team. Great underdogs.

He beams.

Reminded of the non-sellouts, Sternberg sometimes frowns.

"It's the final homestand of the season, and these games are the most telling," he said. "The timing for great attendance seems to be right.

"Quite frankly, Thursday against the Twins we're going to be hard-pressed to get 20,000 in the building. That's not what we want at this point of the season, but it's just a fact. It's disappointing, not so much for me, but for the players, the people in marketing, tickets, the fan hosts, everybody who works so hard."

Then Sternberg repeated what already sounds like his mantra for the franchise's direction.

"Next year will be a pivotal one for the business."

Reporter Joey Johnston can be reached at (813) 259-7353 or jjohnston@tampatrib.com.

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