Spring Training Promises Fun And Relaxed Atmosphere

Baseball, one of America’s most favorite past-times and has been around in the U.S. since before the mid 1850’s.

One of the most exciting and anticipated parts of baseball is the pre-season that takes part during each springtime- more formally known as Spring Training.

The infamous Cal Ripken Jr. said, “There’s always a feeling of renewal in spring training.”

Spring Training was originally started as a way to get the teams together to practice before the season started.

Training in Arizona started in 1947, when the Giants and the Indians came to Phoenix and Tucson.

Kevin Reichard, author of The Complete Guider to Spring Training and publisher of SpringTrainingOnline.com says, “My favorite part of Spring Training is walking onto the practice fields, the players are completely unguarded."

Training in Arizona gives players a chance to prepare for the season in a more relaxed atmosphere. There is less pressure for the players to perform during spring training.

A laid back atmosphere also means more opportunities for fans to interact.

“The fans get an opportunity to get up close and personal with their favorite players” Says J.P. de le Montaigne, executive board member and former president of the Cactus League.

Last year, there were over 1.6 million people in total attendance at Spring Training games. Over 60 percent of fans attending games come from out of state and help support the city’s economy and help generate revenue.

For out-of-town visitors, Spring Training means a vacation away from colder climates. For residents in Arizona, Spring Training means an early escape from work or school and an opportunity to watch their favorite baseball team.

Arizona is home to 15 major league teams during the springtime; many other teams practice in Florida.

“The locations and the facilities in Arizona are closer together. Typically, in Florida the closest ones are an hour away,” says Montaigne.

Scottsdale Stadium, home to the San Francisco Giants is less than ten minutes from SCC.

In addition to Scottsdale Stadium, Phoenix Municipal Stadium-home of the Oakland A’s- is a mere 15 minutes from campus.

Tickets to all Spring Training games start at around $6 each and can be found online, or at each stadium’s box office.