Spring Training 2015
When the snow is at the highest is when we all start to think of spring. And what screams spring more than Baseball? As soon as I hear the song ‘Centerfield’ I am ready for the sun, the stands, the baseball. And Spring Training let’s you get a bit of this before the season starts.
This week the fun began as 15 Baseball Teams descend upon Florida and treat all of us to a month of big league playing on little league fields. All of these teams have their home fields in central Florida. So you can actually travel with your team as they play games against some of your favorite teams.
Are you still thinking, why would you want to spend time in Florida watching Spring Training? Let me give you three reasons…
1. Small Town Baseball
All of the teams play in small stadiums that give your the feel of being part of the game. You can get seats just feet away from the bench or the pitcher warm up area. If you are in the outfield you can reach right out to catch a ball. The parks are intimate and take you back to the parks you watched baseball in growing up.
The games are actually pretty casual. Don’t bother trying to score along with the game as the managers are constantly changing things up to see what works and what doesn’t. This informal feel also let’s the players interact more with the crowds. You may be able to have conversations with the players while they are on the field! It really is a one of a kind experience to get up close to some of your baseball heroes.
Depending on where you sit you may also meet some of the baseball scouts checking out your favorite players and the new comers. You couple pick up some insider information. (wink wink)
2. Weather
The weather this time in central Florida is perfect. Not to cold or to hot. Carry a light jacket with you and you will be fine.
This weather also makes it perfect to relax in the seats with a hot dog and a cold beer. You can leave your cares at the stadium entrance and just enjoy the game.
3. Location
How can you beat central Florida. In addition to 15 baseball stadiums you can also take some time to head to local attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Florida, Legoland, Sea World, etc. Or head to the beach and relax with the sand and the surf.
Did I mention Walt Disney World… did you know that they host the Atlanta Braves Spring Training at ESPN Wide World of Sports?
The Braves play in Champion stadium. The park only has seating for 9,500 people. This means all the seats are close to the action. You can sit right behind home base for as little as $39!
There is even a grassy knoll for those that would rather sit on the ground to watch the game. I love this for families.
[quote]Can you imagine your kid racing to get a ball that popped over the fence? What a perfect spring moment. [/quote]
For you Houston Astros fans, they play right next door in Kissammee, Florida. You can watch a Braves game and an Astros game same day. How could it get better?
It is easily a full week vacation to visit central Florida during Grapefruit League Spring Training and is one of the most relaxing vacations you will every take. One you will yearn for years after you have gone.
What do you think about Spring Training? Is this a trip worth taking?
Mary, you don’t need to convince me to head to Florida–I’d love to bring my family! You are right: there are so many reasons to go, and I have very fond memories visiting the state.
They do spring training in March in Phoenix as well. I’d attend. I have two boys, so I have to get used to be a sports mama. My prefered sport is football, but you never know what a child might take an interest in.
mommyonlyhs2hds So true. We live in Houston and our son says he wants to play hockey!! We have yet to make it to the Cactus League… maybe someday.
SnyMed Lol! I know what you mean. But the spring sun feels sooooo good there this time of year.
This sounds like a great event for any baseball fan! I’m not much into the game but my husband is! I can’t wait to tell him about it.
I used to live in Fl. and I loved it. You’re lucky to be there this time of year, let me tell you. 🙂 The measures taken to get the players interacting w/the crowd at the games is cool!
Sounds like you had a great time! I would love to check this out the next time we visit Florida! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
mail4rosey Jealous that you got to enjoy this more than once! It really is like a small town game. I was amazed at how laid back and accessible everyone was.
This sounds like so much fun!! I have never even heard of this, but I would totally plan a trip to check out some games one day!!
We have friends that do this every year and love it. I have thought about taking this trip because my husband and I both like baseball. Maybe next year!
Spring training is so much fun. My husband and son used to go every year when the kids were younger. Such great memories!
This looks like a fun thing to do. I love spring training.
lamark What great memories! I remember to to Atlanta Braves games with my Dad. It was wonderful!