Brewers Closer Calls Tropicana Field Roof Color an 'Idiotic' Design
Trevor Megill voiced frustration over the roof's similarity to baseballs ahead of World Series Game 3.
Milwaukee Brewers closer Trevor Megill has voiced a colorful criticism of Tropicana Field, the home of the Tampa Bay Rays, regarding the color of its roof. Ahead of Game 3 of the World Series in Tampa, Megill described the roof's hue as being the same as a baseball, calling the decision to make them similar an "f—ing idiot" move.
Megill made these remarks on Sunday while speaking with reporters after batting practice. His comments highlight a unique challenge presented by the stadium's design, particularly for players tracking fly balls. According to WISN 12 News reporter Dario Melendez, the Brewers had practiced dealing with fly balls and potential ricochets off the roof during their off-day, a task made more difficult by the white backdrop of the Tropicana Field roof.
This is not the first time stadium roof designs have become a talking point during the current postseason. Earlier in the playoffs, the Brewers' home, American Family Field, was involved in a similar discussion. In Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Padres, the cables supporting the roof at American Family Field were suggested to have potentially interfered with a home run hit by Ty France. The ball descended into the glove of outfielder Jackson Chourio, and the play was ruled an out. The Brewers went on to win that game 3-2 and eventually clinched the series.
Megill has had a strong showing in the postseason thus far, pitching 6 ⅔ innings and allowing only one run on three hits, with seven strikeouts. His outing in Game 1 of the World Series was particularly notable, as he navigated a chaotic ninth inning, surviving an overturned double play to secure a narrow victory for Milwaukee.
The Tropicana Field's distinctive catwalks, which are part of its roof structure, have also played a role in recent games. In Game 2 of the American League Division Series, the Yankees' Spencer Jones was retired when a fly ball he hit struck a catwalk and was caught by outfielder Victor Mesa Jr.
Should the Brewers win the next two games in Tampa, they would secure the World Series title on the road, marking their first championship in franchise history. The current series stands with the Brewers having an advantage, heading into games at Tropicana Field.