Outcomes aside, Monday night’s unique network baseball/football doubleheader was a winner for Tampa Bay. The viewing audience always sees more than what happens on the diamond or gridiron. They’re also seeing the local color that always accompanies national coverage. Around here that meant scenic waterfronts, sail boats, a cruise liner, an iconic bridge and a skyline.
Win or lose, a marquee appearance on the national stage is a marketing coup. Just ask any chamber of commerce.
It’s also a galvanizing shot in the arm. The dueling sellouts in St. Pete and Tampa were reminders that even if a venue, such as Tropicana Field, does prompt parochialism from some, it also promotes regional identity and pride in many more.
Sure, the Rays lost to the Rangers that night, and the Bucs beat the Colts. But put one in the win column for Tampa Bay. It was a special night.