It’s time for Spring Training in Florida, where the sun shines bright, the atmosphere is electric, and teams of the Grapefruit League are busy preparing for the upcoming baseball season.
Spring Training is a cherished tradition in Major League Baseball (MLB) that heralds the start of a new season. For those in Florida, Spring Training offers a special chance to witness beloved teams up close and personal as they gear up for the challenges ahead.
Meet the Grapefruit League
During Spring Training, 15 MLB teams converge on Florida to hone their skills, assess talent, and foster team unity before the regular season kicks off. This lineup is known as the Grapefruit League.
Here are the Grapefruit League teams and the cities hosting them:
- Atlanta Braves – North Port
- Baltimore Orioles – Sarasota
- Boston Red Sox – Fort Myers
- Detroit Tigers – Lakeland
- Houston Astros – West Palm Beach
- Miami Marlins – Jupiter
- Minnesota Twins – Fort Myers
- New York Mets – Port St. Lucie
- New York Yankees – Tampa
- Philadelphia Phillies – Clearwater
- Pittsburgh Pirates – Bradenton
- St. Louis Cardinals – Jupiter
- Tampa Bay Rays – Port Charlotte
- Toronto Blue Jays – Dunedin
- Washington Nationals – West Palm Beach
Whether you’re a fervent supporter or a casual observer, Spring Training in Florida promises an unforgettable experience for baseball fans of all stripes.
Florida Spring Training Experience: Tips for Fans
For fans eager to make the most of Spring Training in Florida, here are some pointers to ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip. You can find more travel tips at floridagrapefruitleague.com.
Plan Ahead
Careful planning is key. Check the Grapefruit League schedule to learn where and when teams will be playing. There are ticket specials for seniors and military servicemembers on certain days.
Florida Spring Training draws large crowds. In 2023, nearly 1.4 million fans flocked to Florida Spring Training locations. Make sure you plan accommodations early.
Take in Multiple Games
Embrace the opportunity to catch several games over a few days. From March 23 – 25, the Pittsburgh Pirates will host the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays at LECOM Park in Bradenton.
If you’re in Clearwater between March 21 – 25, you can enjoy four games in five days at Baycare Ballpark. The Philadelphia Phillies host the Tampa Bay Rays on March 21 and 25, the Detroit Tigers on March 22, and the Toronto Blue Jays on March 24.
Grab Swag on Promotion Days
Look out for special promotion days at the ballparks, where fans can snag exclusive giveaways such as towels, t-shirts, hats, and more. These promotions add an extra layer of excitement to the Spring Training atmosphere.
Explore the Area
Take advantage of your time in Florida to explore the surrounding attractions. From pristine beaches to bustling downtown areas, the Sunshine State offers a wealth of sights and activities to enjoy during your stay.
Find things to do in Florida cities hosting Spring Training:
- North Port
- Sarasota
- Fort Myers
- Lakeland
- West Palm Beach
- Jupiter
- Port St. Lucie
- Tampa
- Clearwater
- Bradenton
- Port Charlotte
Engage with Players
Spring Training provides plenty of opportunities for fan-player interaction. Don’t hesitate to participate in autograph sessions, photo opportunities, and meet-and-greets to connect with your favorite baseball stars.
Stay Sun-Safe
Florida’s sunny climate can be intense, especially in the early spring months. Remember to stay hydrated, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade when necessary to avoid sunburn and heat-related issues.
Celebrate Spring Training in Florida
Whether you’re a lifelong baseball devotee or simply seeking a fun-filled getaway, Spring Training in Florida offers something for everyone. So get dressed in your team colors and prepare to immerse yourself in the magic of baseball. From the first pitch to the last inning, Spring Training is an experience you’ll cherish for years to come.
