Dick Vitale, Patrick Wilson Among Celebrities Linked to Rays
A trending topic in Tampa-St. Petersburg (Sarasota) explores the celebrity fans of the Tampa Bay Rays, noting that while the team may not have as extensive a celebrity following as some other Major League Baseball franchises, several notable figures have…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, October 21, 2026 —
A trend in the Tampa-St. Petersburg (Sarasota) area is drawing attention to celebrities who have supported or have ties to the Tampa Bay Rays. The names highlighted include Dick Vitale, Patrick Wilson, Bert Kreischer and John Cena, alongside professional wrestlers and other celebrities who have thrown out first pitches at Rays games.
The trend frames the Rays’ celebrity following as less extensive than that of some other Major League Baseball franchises, while pointing to several recognizable figures associated with the team. It does not provide details about the nature of each person’s connection, so the specific form or duration of their support is not established.
First pitches are also cited as a way celebrities have appeared at Rays games. However, the summary does not name the wrestlers or other guests who took part, nor does it give dates or identify particular games. It also does not specify when the trend began or how widely it has spread.
The information provided offers a list of figures connected to the topic, but does not include statements from the individuals or the team. As a result, it does not clarify whether each person identifies as a Rays fan, has another connection to the team, or was mentioned for a public appearance. Further details about those relationships were not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by By Jay Cridlin, Times staff on www.tampabay.com, see more information here.
Media gallery
