Devil Rays Looking for Their Magic Kingdom

Ever seen the Devil Rays play a home game at Tropicana Field? Those seats sure are empty, aren't they? Looking in the crowd you can see Dick Vitale, a lot of green seats, some teenagers making out in the upper deck, and oxygen tanks.

So the Rays are looking for ways to boost attendance, and they've decided that only the magic of Disney can save them.

"The Tampa Bay Devil Rays are looking for ways to broaden fan support, including the possibility of shifting a three-game series against the Texas Rangers from Tropicana Field to Disney World next season. Discussions are under way to move the May 15-17 series against the Rangers from St. Petersburg to Kissimmee, where the Atlanta Braves conduct spring training at Disney's Wide World of Sports complex. "It's part of our effort to make the team a regional franchise," Devil Rays spokesman Rick Vaughn said, declining further comment."

The plan has already received approval from the commissioneer's office, the player's union, the umpires, and the Rangers. Now the Devil Rays must wait for permission from the Florida State League and Lakeland Tigers.

The team declined to comment on rumors they've offered Mickey Mouse a 3-year $30 million deal.