2015 MLB Spring Training Primer

Today's the day the journey of the 2015 Major League Baseball season begins with the arrival of Spring Training games in Florida and Arizona.  The first set of games start 1 PM EST for Grapefruit League games and 3 PM EST for Cactus League games through Saturday March 7.  Sunday March 8 is the beginning of Spring Forward where we move up our clocks one hour except in places like Arizona which doesn't utilize Daylight Savings Time.  All afternoon Cactus League games from this point on will start at 1 PM local time.

In an effort to be of service to you loyal readers of Tim's Sports World, I thought it would be good to provide you with the latest and most up-to-date information on where you can go to catch your favorite team in action as they gear up for Opening Day on April 6th for most teams.  The St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs start their regular season against each other on Sunday April 5 at 8 PM EDT/7 PM CDT on ESPN2 at Wrigley Field in Chicago.

If you can't make it out to Spring Training for whatever reason, MLB Network has you covered with over 200 games being broadcast starting today.  Make sure to check your local listings for the availability of MLB Network in your area.  In any case Happy Spring Training 2015!

JetBlue Park At Fenway South

Photo Courtesy of

Wikimedia

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NT1952

under

CC BY-SA 3.0 License

Grapefruit League: Florida

Atlanta Braves-Lake Buena Vista, FL.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. New York Mets at 1:05 PM EST.  Last Spring Training game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Baltimore Orioles at 3:05 PM EDT at Champion Stadium. 

Spring Training Venue:

Champion Stadium At The ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex At Walt Disney World
700 S. Victory Way
Kissimee, FL 34747
1-407-939-GAME (4263)

Single game ticket prices range from $14-$54.  Season ticket prices range from $234-$612. Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more people.  Sections 101-106 and 207-220 are the only sections available for a discount.  Discounts are not available for all games and are subject to availability. Team also offers mini plan options in 4 categories ranging in price from $84-$97.  Suites are available for groups of 15-300 people.

General parking is complimentary.  Valet parking will be available for $20.

Baltimore Orioles-Sarasota, FL.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Detroit Tigers at 1:05 PM EST at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, FL.  First home Spring game is Wednesday, March 3 VS. Detroit Tigers at 1:05 PM EST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Atlanta Braves at 3:05 PM EDT at Champion Stadium in Kissimmee, FL.   

Spring Training Venue

Ed Smith Stadium
2700 12th Street
 Sarasota, FL 34237
941-893-6300

Single game ticket prices range from $8-$30 for Value games, $10-$32 for Select games and $13-$35 for Prime games.  Call ticket office for additional ticket information.

Parking is $9.

Boston Red Sox-Lee County, FL.  First Spring Training Games are Doubleheader Split Squad VS. Boston College Eagles and Northeastern Huskies at 1:05 PM EST at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, FL.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Minnesota Twins at 1:05 PM EDT at CenturyLink Sports Complex in Fort Myers, FL.  

Spring Training Venue

JetBlue Park At Fenway South
11500 Fenway South Drive
Fort Myers, FL 33913
293-334-4700

Single game ticket prices range from from $5-$48 depending on desired seating area.
Parking is $5 in the Boys & Girls Club of Lee County (BGCLC) Lot and $10 in the Stadium Lots. The BGCLC Lot is a grass field which is about a quarter-mile removed from the ballpark's west entrance.  To get into it, look for the Southwest Regional Commerce and Trade Center sign.  It is at the intersection of Rickenbacker and Daniels Parkway.

Detroit Tigers-Lakeland, FL.  Second Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Baltimore Orioles at 1:05 PM EST at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, FL.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Tampa Bay Rays at 12:35 PM EDT at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL.

Spring Training Venue

Joker Marchant Stadium
2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd.
Lakeland, FL 33805
863-686-8075
Single game ticket prices range from $10-$30 (Dynamic Pricing style system is utilized.)
Parking Rates: $8 for cars, $15 for RV's, $20 for Buses and $136 for Season Parking Pass

Mailing Address:
Detroit Tigers
2125 N. Lake Ave.
Lakeland, FL 33805

Telephone numbers of Interest:

Administration Office: 863-686-8075
Order Tickets: 866-668-4437
Handicap Needs: 863-413-4140

Houston Astros-Kissimmee, FL.  First Spring Training game is Thursday, April 5 VS. Philadelphia Phillies at 12:05 PM CST/1:05 PM EST at Osceola County Stadium.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Kansas City Royals at 3:05 PM CDT at Minute Maid Park in Houston, TX. 

Spring Training Venue

Osceola County Stadium
631 Heritage Park Way
Kissimmee, FL 34744
321-697-3200
321-697-3210 (FAX)
Ticket prices range from $10-$55 for single games, $17-$32 for season tickets and $12-$32 for groups.  Dynamic style pricing system is utilized.
Parking is $7.

Miami Marlins-Jupiter, FL.  Second Spring Training game is Tuesday, March VS. University of Miami Hurricanes at Roger Dean Stadium.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Jacksonville Suns at 1:05 PM EDT at Bragan Field in Jacksonville, FL.

Spring Training Venue

Roger Dean Stadium
4751 Main Street
Jupiter, FL 33458
561-7751818
6+ game mini plan prices start at $84.  Season ticket prices range from $294-$322 for Marlins games and $315-$345 for Cardinals games.  Group ticket prices start as low as $14 a person for groups of 15 or more people.
Parking Rates: $5 for Cars and $20.00 for Buses and other large vehicles.

Minnesota Twins-Fort Myers, FL.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. University of Minnesota Golden Gophers at 6:05 PM CST/7:05 PM EST at Hammond Stadium. Last Spring game is Saturday April 4 VS. Boston Red Sox at 12:05 PM CDT/1:05 PM EDT at Hammond Stadium.

Spring Training Venue

Hammond Stadium At CenturyLink Sports Complex
14100 Six Mile Cypress Parkway
Fort Myers, FL 33912
Stadium has undergone extensive renovations.
1-800-33-TWINS (1-800-338-9467) or 612-338-9467
Single game ticket prices range from $10-$41 for Value Pricing games and $13-$37 for Premium Pricing games.  Call for further ticket information.
Parking is $10.

New York Mets-Port St. Lucie, FL.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Atlanta Braves at 1:05 PM EST at Champion Stadium in Kissimmee FL.  First Spring home game is Friday, March 6 VS. Detroit Tigers at 1:10 PM EST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Texas Rangers at 2:05 PM EDT/1:05 PM CDT at Globe Life Park in Arlington, TX.

Spring Training Venue

Tradition Field
525 NW Peacock Blvd.
Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
772-871-2115
Box Office Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM to 4 PM, Sunday 10 AM to 2 PM
Season ticket prices range from $268-$460.  Group tickets to most games are available for the discounted price of $14 per ticket in the Upper Reserve sections or $10 in the Berm.  Group ticket packages consist of 25 or more persons.
Parking is $7.

New York Yankees-Tampa, FL.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Philadelphia Phillies at 1:05 PM EST at Bright House Field in Clearwater, FL.  First home Spring game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Philadelphia Phillies at 1:05 PM EST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Washington Nationals at 1:05 PM EDT at Nationals Park in Washington D.C.

 

Spring Training Venue

George M. Steinbrenner Field
1 Steinbrenner Drive
Tampa, FL 33614
813-879-2244 or 1-800-96-YANKS (1-800-969-2657)
Call for ticket information.
Parking at George M. Steinbrenner Field is reserved via parking passes.  Parking is located across the street from George M. Steinbrenner Field (adjacent to Raymond James Stadium).  The total cost of a parking pass is $136 ($8 X 17 games).  

Philadelphia Phillies-Clearwater, FL.  Second Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Philadelphia Phillies at 1:05 PM EST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Pittsburgh Pirates at 1:05 PM EDT at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA.    

Spring Training Venue

Bright House Field
601 Old Coachman Road
Clearwater, FL 33765
727-467-4457
Call for ticket information.
Parking is $10 in the stadium/complex/college lots and $5 at NE Coachman Park.  All spots at NE Coachman Park are shaded by trees.

Pittsburgh Pirates-Bradenton, FL.  Second Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Toronto Blue Jays at 1:07 PM EST at Florida Auto Exchange Stadium in Dunedin, FL. First home Spring game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 PM EST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Philadelphia Phillies at 1:05 PM EDT at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA.

Spring Training Venue

McKechnie Field
1611 9th Street West
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-747-3031 (Ticket Office), 941-747-9442 (FAX)
Advance ticket prices range from $12-$27.  Standing room tickets are available for sold out games only.  Day of game ticket prices are $3 and up in all categories except Standing Room.  Season ticket prices range from $193-$373.  Also available for unique season ticket packages are the 4Topps tables located on the new McKechnie Field Boardwalk.  Ticket packages for this area are $2,800 for four seats and include $800 in Bucs Bucks, to be used on ballpark concessions, per table.
Parking costs vary from $10 in the stadium lot to $4-$10 for neighborhood parking to free curbside parking on 17 Ave. W just past the 5 St. W intersection and Rogers Garden Elementary School.

St. Louis Cardinals-Jupiter, FL.  First Spring Training game is Thursday, March 5 VS. Miami Marlins at 1:05 PM EST/12:05 PM CST.  The Miami Marlins will be the home team for this game.  The first home Spring game will be Friday, March 6 VS. Houston Astros at 1:05 PM EST/12:05 PM CST.  The last Spring game will be Friday, April 3 VS. Memphis Redbirds at 6:05 PM CDT at AutoZone Park in Memphis, TN.  Opening night for the Cardinals is Sunday, April 5 at Wrigley Field in Chicago at 8 PM EDT/7 PM CDT VS. Chicago Cubs on ESPN2.  

Spring Training Venue

Roger Dean Stadium
4751 Main Street
Jupiter, FL 33458
561-775-1818
6+ game mini plan prices start at $84.  Season ticket prices range from $294-$322 for Marlins games and $315-$345 for Cardinals games.  Group ticket prices start as low as $14 a person for groups of 15 or more people.
Parking Rates: $5 for Cars and $20.00 for Buses and other large vehicles.

Tampa Bay Rays-Charlotte County, FL.  First Spring Training game is Thursday, March 5 VS. Baltimore Orioles at 1:05 PM EST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Detroit Tigers at 12:35 PM EDT at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL.  

Spring Training Venue

Charlotte Sports Park
2300 El Jobean Road
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
941-206-4487
Single game ticket prices range from $14-$51.  3-game packs are available for $39.  Each pack includes a Rays Photo Ball.
Parking is $5 in the Black Widow Harley-Davidson lot and $10 in the stadium lot.

Toronto Blue Jays-Dunedin, FL.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Pittsburgh Pirates at 1:07 PM EST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Cincinnati Reds at 1:07 PM EDT at Olympic Stadium in Montreal, QC, Canada.  

Spring Training Venue

Florida Auto Exchange Stadium
373 Douglas Ave. (corner of Douglas Ave. and Beltrees St.)
Dunedin, FL 34698
727-733-0429
Single game ticket prices range from $18-$23.  Season ticket prices range from $270-$345.
Parking is $3-$10 for neighborhood parking and $15 for stadium parking.

Washington Nationals-Viera, FL.  First Spring Training game is Thursday, March 5 VS. New York Mets at 5:05 PM EST.  Last Spring game Saturday, April 4 VS. New York Yankees at 1:05 PM EDT at Nationals Park in Washington D.C.

Spring Training Venue

Space Coast Stadium
5800 Stadium Parkway
Viera, FL 32940
321-633-9200 (Visitor Information)
Single game ticket prices range from $12-$35 (dynamic pricing style system is used.)  Season ticket prices range from $238-$280.
Parking is $7.

Salt River Fields At Talking Stick

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Wikimedia

and

Cygnusloop99

under

CC BY-SA 3.0 License

Cactus League: Arizona

 

Los Angeles Angels Of Anaheim-Tempe, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Thursday, March 5 VS. Milwaukee Brewers at 12:05 PM PST/1:05 PM MST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Los Angeles Dodgers at 6:10 PM PDT at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.  

Spring Training Venue

Tempe Diablo Stadium
2200 W. Alameda Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
480-350-5205
Single game ticket prices range from $15-$60 (Dynamic style pricing system is utilized.)  Group ticket packages of 15 or more persons range from $14-$48 for Non-Premium games and $15-$53 for Premium games.  Most Premium games are on weekend dates.
Parking is $5.

Arizona Diamondbacks-Scottsdale, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Arizona State Sun Devils at 3:10 PM MST.  Last Spring game Saturday, April 4 VS. Chicago Cubs at 1:10 PM MST at Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ.  Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Spring Training Venue

Salt River Fields At Talking Stick
7555 N. Pima Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Salt River Fields At Talking Stick is served by major freeways, Interstate 10, Interstate 17, Red Mountain Freeway Loop 202 and Pima Freeway-Loop 101.
Phone #'s: 480-270-5000, 888-490-0383, 480-362-9467 (phone fee of $10 per transaction applies.)
Season ticket prices range from $162-$504 for D-Backs games consisting of an 18-game schedule, $135-$420 for Rockies games consisting of a 15-game schedule and $297-$924 for a full season consisting of a 33-game schedule.
Ticket office hours: Center Field ticket office-10 AM-3:30 PM for day games, 10 AM-9 PM for night games; Home Plate ticket office-11 AM-3:30 PM for day games, 5 PM-9:30 PM for night games; Left Field ticket office-11 AM-2 PM for day games, 5 PM-8 PM for night games; Right Field ticket office-11 AM-2 PM for day games, 5 PM-8 PM for night games.  Non-game days: Center Field ticket office only-10 AM-4 PM Monday through Friday, 10 AM-2 PM Saturday and closed on Sunday.
Parking Rates: $5 for day of game parking in all lots.  RV and Bus parking is available for $15. Salt River Fields parking lots will open at 9 AM on game days.

Chicago Cubs-Mesa, AZ.  First Spring Training games are a Split Squad Doubleheader on Thursday, March 5 VS. Oakland Athletics at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST at Sloan Park and VS. San Francisco Giants at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST at Scottsdale Stadium in Scottsdale, AZ.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Arizona Diamondbacks at 3:10 PM CDT/1:10 PM MST at Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ.  Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time.  Opening Night for the Chicago Cubs is Sunday, April 5 VS. St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field in Chicago at 8:05 PM EDT/7:05 PM CDT on ESPN2. 

Spring Training Venue

Sloan Park
2330 Rio Salado Parkway
Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone #'s: 1-800-THE-CUBS (1-800-843-2827) for single game and season tickets, 480-668-0500 for group ticket sales.  Single game ticket prices range from $9-$36.  Group ticket prices are $42 for non-marquee games and $46 for marquee games for 20 or more people.  Group ticket price admission comes with grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, tortilla chips and homemade salsa, pasta salad, brownies, lemonade and iced tea.  Season ticket prices range from $135-$540.
Parking to all games is available for $10 (reserved), $5 (general) per vehicle or motorcycle.  Buses and RV's are $14.

Cincinnati Reds-Goodyear, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Cleveland Indians at 3:05 PM EST/1:05 MST.  The Reds will be the home team.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Toronto Blue Jays at 1:07 PM EDT at Olympic Stadium in Montreal, QC, Canada.

Spring Training Venue

Goodyear Ballpark
1933 S. Ballpark Way
Goodyear, AZ 85338
623-882-3120 (general), 623-882-3130 (ticket office)
Single game ticket prices range from $4-$10 for children 12 and under and $8-$29 for everybody else.  Mini plans range from $11-$23.  Group ticket prices range from $7-$37 Monday through Friday and $9-$37 on weekends.  Suites are $750 for 15 people.  
Parking is $5 for Cars and $10 for RV's.  There is no overnight parking for RV's

Cleveland Indians-Goodyear, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Cincinnati Reds at 3:05 PM EST/1:05 MST.  The Reds will be the home team.  First home Spring game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Cincinnati Reds at 3:05 PM EST/1:05 MST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Milwaukee Brewers at 3:05 PM EDT/12:05 MST at Maryvale Baseball Park in Phoenix, AZ.  Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Spring Training Venue

Goodyear Ballpark
1933 S. Ballpark Way
Goodyear, AZ 85338
623-882-3120 (general), 623-882-3130 (ticket office)
Single game ticket prices range from $4-$10 for children 12 and under and $8-$29 for everybody else.  Mini plans range from $11-$23.  Group ticket prices range from $7-$37 Monday through Friday and $9-$37 on weekends.  Suites are $750 for 15 people.  

Parking is $5 for Cars and Trucks, $10 for RV's.  There is no overnight parking.

Colorado Rockies-Scottsdale, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Arizona Diamondbacks at 1:10 PM MST.  The Rockies will be the home team.  Last Spring Training game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Seattle Mariners at 1:10 PM MDT/12:10 PM MST. Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Spring Training Venue

Salt River Fields At Talking Stick
7555 N. Pima Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Salt River Fields At Talking Stick is served by major freeways, Interstate 10, Interstate 17, Red Mountain Freeway Loop 202 and Pima Freeway-Loop 101.
Phone #'s: 480-270-5000, 888-490-0383, 480-362-9467 (phone fee of $10 per transaction applies.)
Season ticket prices range from $162-$504 for D-Backs games consisting of an 18-game schedule, $135-$420 for Rockies games consisting of a 15-game schedule and $297-$924 for a full season consisting of a 33-game schedule.
Ticket office hours: Center Field ticket office-10 AM-3:30 PM for day games, 10 AM-9 PM for night games; Home Plate ticket office-11 AM-3:30 PM for day games, 5 PM-9:30 PM for night games; Left Field ticket office-11 AM-2 PM for day games, 5 PM-8 PM for night games; Right Field ticket office-11 AM-2 PM for day games, 5 PM-8 PM for night games.  Non-game days: Center Field ticket office only-10 AM-4 PM Monday through Friday, 10 AM-2 PM Saturday and closed on Sunday.
Parking Rates: $5 for day of game parking in all lots.  RV and Bus parking is available for $15. Salt River Fields parking lots will open at 9 AM on game days.

Chicago White Sox-Glendale, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Los Angeles Dodgers at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST.  The Dodgers will be the home team.  First home Spring game is Thursday, April 4 VS. Los Angeles Dodgers at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST.  Last Spring game is Friday, April 3 VS. Charlotte Knights at 5:05 PM CDT/6:05 PM EDT at BB&T Ballpark in Charlotte, NC.  

Spring Training Venue

Camelback Ranch
10710 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85037
623-302-5000
Single game ticket prices range from $9-$39 for Advance Purchase Monday through Friday.  Suites in this price category are $400.  Day of game purchases are from $12-$37.  Suite purchases are excluded from this category.  Weekend Premier Game purchases are from $14-$59 Friday through Sunday.  Suites in this price category are $500.  Group ticket prices vary depending on desired seating location.  Season ticket prices range from $108-$528 for White Sox games consisting of a 14-game schedule, $112-$532 for Dodger games consisting of a 14-game schedule and $220-$1,060 for full season schedule consisting of 28 games.  Mini plans of 3+ games are also available from $27-$117.
Parking is free!  There is no overnight parking.

Kansas City Royals-Surprise, AZ.  First Spring Training game is a Tuesday, March 3 charity game VS. Texas Rangers at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST.  The Rangers will be the home team.  The first Spring home game Wednesday, March 4 VS. Texas Rangers at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST.  The last Spring game will be Saturday, April 4 VS. Houston Astros at 3:05 PM CDT at Minute Maid Park in Houston, TX.  

Spring Training Venue

Surprise Stadium
15850 N. Bullard Ave.
Surprise, AZ 85374
623-222-2222
Single game ticket prices range from $8-$30.  Season ticket prices range from $112-$196 for 7-game FLEX and 7-PACK games (Royals or Rangers), $196-$392 for Royals games consisting of a 14-game schedule, $210-$420 for Rangers games consisting of a 15-game schedule and $377-$812 for full season schedule consisting of 29 games.  Group sale discounts are also available.  Groups of 20-49 people are $3 off each ticket.  Groups of 50-99 people are $5 off each ticket.  Groups of 100 or more people must call box office to inquire about discount rates.  Suites are available for $1,000 (includes $250 food and beverage voucher and admission for 16 people.
Parking is available in one of the lots outside of the center field entrance.
Box Office hours: 10 AM-5 PM Monday through Friday, 10 AM-2 PM Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM-30 minutes after the game on game days.

Los Angeles Dodgers-Glendale, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Chicago White Sox at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST.  The Dodgers will be the home team.  The last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at 6:10 PM PDT at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

Spring Training Venue

Camelback Ranch
10710 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85037
623-302-5000
Single game ticket prices range from $9-$39 for Advance Purchase Monday through Friday.  Suites in this price category are $400.  Day of game purchases are from $12-$37.  Suite purchases are excluded from this category.  Weekend Premier Game purchases are from $14-$59 Friday through Sunday.  Suites in this price category are $500.  Group ticket prices vary depending on desired seating location.  Season ticket prices range from $108-$528 for White Sox games consisting of a 14-game schedule, $112-$532 for Dodger games consisting of a 14-game schedule and $220-$1,060 for full season schedule consisting of 28 games.  Mini plans of 3+ games are also available from $27-$117.
Parking is free!  There is no overnight parking.

Milwaukee Brewers-Phoenix, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. UW-Milwaukee Panthers at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Cleveland Indians at 2:05 PM CDT/12:05 PM MST.  Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Spring Training Venue

Maryvale Baseball Park

3600 N. 51st Ave.

Phoenix, AZ 85031

623-245-5500

Single game ticket prices range from $8-$23.  Season ticket packages start at $176.  Group ticket information can be obtained by calling Miller Park ticket office at 1-800-933-7890.  Groups consist of 20 or more people.  

Parking prices are $5 for advance parking purchases and $6 for day of game parking.

Maryvale Baseball Park box office hours are 9 AM-5 PM Monday through Friday, 10 AM-5 PM on Saturday and 10 AM-2 PM on Sunday.

Oakland Athletics-Mesa, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. San Francisco Giants at 12:05 PM PST/1:05 PM MST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. San Francisco Giants at 1:05 PM PDT AT O.co Coliseum in Oakland, CA.

Spring Training Venue

Hohokam Stadium

1235 N. Center Street

Mesa, AZ 85201

480-644-4451

Call for ticket information.
Parking is $3-$5 for neighborhood parking and $7 for stadium parking.

San Diego Padres-Peoria, AZ.  First Spring Training game is a Tuesday, March 3, charity game VS. Seattle Mariners at 12:05 PM PST/1:05 PM MST.  The Mariners will be the home team. First home Spring game is Friday, March 6 VS. Chicago White Sox at 12:05 PM PST/1:05 MST. Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Diablos Rojos del Mexico at 2 PM PDT at Petco Park in San Diego, CA.

Spring Training Venue

Peoria Sports Complex
16101 N. 83rd Ave.
Peoria, AZ 85382
623-773-8715
Advance ticket purchase prices range from $5-$26 for Value games, $8-$27 for Regular games and $8-$29 for Premium games.  Day of game purchases for single game tickets are an additional $2 per ticket.  Season ticket prices start at $210 for Padres home games consisting of a 15-game schedule, $224 for Mariners home games consisting of a 16-game schedule and $434 for a full season schedule consisting of 31 games.  Group ticket discounts of $1-$5 are available based on the size of your group for any game.  Group ticket packages also include name recognition on the scoreboard during games, free parking passes and other special benefits.  Optional catering for a pregame buffet is available on upper level Terrace overlooking the field.  To purchase group tickets call 623-773-8719.  Suite rentals are also available and can accommodate up to 12 guests.  For suite rental information call 623-773-8719.
Parking is available on a first come, first serve basis.  Vehicles such as cars are $5.  RV's are $10.

San Francisco Giants-Scottsdale, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Tuesday, March 3 VS. Oakland Athletics at 12:05 PM PST/1:05 PM MST at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, AZ.  First home Spring game is Wednesday, March 4 VS. Oakland Athletics at 12:05 PM PST/ 1:05 PM MST.  Last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. Oakland Athletics at 1:05 PM PDT AT O.co Coliseum in Oakland, CA.

  
Spring Training Venue

Scottsdale Stadium
7408 E. Osborn Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-990-7972
Dynamic style pricing system is used for single game tickets and prices range from $10-$68.75. Season tickets have already sold out.  Group/suite tickets are available for groups ranging in size from 20-150 people.  For more information call 415-972-2298.  Box office hours are as follows: 10 AM-5 PM Monday through Friday.
Cost of parking varies from free to not free.

Seattle Mariners-Peoria, AZ.  First Spring Training game is Wednesday, March 4 charity game VS. San Diego Padres at 12:05 PM PST/1:05 PM MST.  The Mariners will be the home team. The last Spring game will be Saturday, April 4 VS. Colorado Rockies at 12:10 PM PDT/MST at Salt River Fields At Talking Stick in Scottsdale, AZ.  Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Spring Training Venue

Peoria Sports Complex
16101 N. 83rd Ave.
Peoria, AZ 85382
623-773-8715
Advance ticket purchase prices range from $5-$26 for Value games, $8-$27 for Regular games and $8-$29 for Premium games.  Day of game purchases for single game tickets are an additional $2 per ticket.  Season ticket prices start at $210 for Padres home games consisting of a 15-game schedule, $224 for Mariners home games consisting of a 16-game schedule and $434 for a full season schedule consisting of 31 games.  Group ticket discounts of $1-$5 are available based on the size of your group for any game.  Group ticket packages also include name recognition on the scoreboard during games, free parking passes and other special benefits.  Optional catering for a pregame buffet is available on upper level Terrace overlooking the field.  To purchase group tickets call 623-773-8719.  Suite rentals are also available and can accommodate up to 12 guests.  For suite rental information call 623-773-8719.
Parking is available on a first come, first serve basis.  Vehicles such as cars are $5.  RV's are $10.

Texas Rangers-Surprise, AZ.  First Spring Training game is a March 4 charity game VS. Kansas City Royals at 2:05 PM CST/1:05 PM MST.  The Rangers will be the home team.  The last Spring game is Saturday, April 4 VS. New York Mets at 1:05 PM CDT at Globe Life Park in Arlington, TX. 

Spring Training Venue

Surprise Stadium
15850 N. Bullard Ave.
Surprise, AZ 85374
623-222-2222
Single game ticket prices range from $8-$30.  Season ticket prices range from $112-$196 for 7-game FLEX and 7-PACK games (Royals or Rangers), $196-$392 for Royals games consisting of a 14-game schedule, $210-$420 for Rangers games consisting of a 15-game schedule and $377-$812 for full season schedule consisting of 29 games.  Group sale discounts are also available.  Groups of 20-49 people are $3 off each ticket.  Groups of 50-99 people are $5 off each ticket.  Groups of 100 or more people must call box office to inquire about discount rates.  Suites are available for $1,000 (includes $250 food and beverage voucher and admission for 16 people.
Parking is available in one of the lots outside of the center field entrance.
Box Office hours: 10 AM-5 PM Monday through Friday, 10 AM-2 PM Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM-30 minutes after the game on game days.
Parking is free!

Tim Musick
Copyright 2015
All Rights Reserved

   

Wide World of Sports Venues-April 1

Hammond Stadium

Fort Myers, FL

Opened: 1991
Surface: Grass
Construction Cost: $14 Million
Capacity: 7,500
Field Dimensions: Left Field-330 feet, Centerfield-405 feet, Right Field-330 feet
Home Teams: Minnesota Twins (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1991-Present, Fort Myers Miracle (FSL) 1991-Present, GCL Twins (GCL)
Events Attended: None

Maryvale Baseball Park

Phoenix, AZ

Opened: January 1998
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 7,000
Field Dimensions: Left Field-350 feet, Centerfield-400 feet, Right Field-340 feet
Home Teams: AZL Brewers (Arizona League) 1998-Present, Milwaukee Brewers (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 1998-Present
Events Attended: None

Photo courtesy:
Hammond Stadium-Wikimedia Commons and Johnny Spasm under CC-BY-SA 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-March 31

Osceola County Stadium

Kissimmee, FL

Opened: 1984
Renovated: 2003
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 5,300
Field Dimensions: Left Field-325 feet, Center Field-405 feet, Right Field-325 feet
Home Teams: Osceola Astros (FSL) 1985-1994, Kissimmee Cobras (FSL) 1995-2000, GCL Astros (GCL) 2009-, Houston Astros (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1985-Present
Events Attended: None

Hi Corbett Field

Tucson, AZ

Opened: 1937
Renovated: 1992, 1997, 1999
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 9,500
Field Dimensions: Right Field-348 feet, Center Field-392 feet, Left Field-366 feet
Home Teams: Colorado Rockies (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 1993-2010, Cleveland Indians (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 1945-1992, Tucson Toros (PCL) 1969-1997, Tucson Toros (Golden Baseball League GBL) 2009-Present, Arizona Heat (National Pro Fastpitch NPF) 2004-2007, Tucson Cowboys (Southwest International League SIL, among other leagues) 1937-1958, USA Baseball (headquarters) 1997-2003, Tucson Javelinas (AFL) 1993-1994, Tucson Lizards (Arizona-Texas League A-TL) 1932
Events Attended: None

Photo courtesy:
Hi Corbett Field-Wikimedia Commons and Mavarin (Karen Funk Blocher) under CC-BY 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-March 30

Roger Dean Stadium

Jupiter, FL

Opened: February 28, 1998
Surface: Grass
Construction Cost: $28 Million
Capacity: 6,871
Field Dimensions: Left Field-335 feet, Left-Center-380 feet, Center Field-400 feet, Right-Center-375 feet, Right Field-325 feet
Home Teams: Jupiter Hammerheads (FSL) 1998-Present, Palm Beach Cardinals (FSL) 2003-Present, St. Louis Cardinals (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1998-Present, Florida Marlins (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 2002-Present, GCL Cardinals (GCL) 1998-Present, GCL Marlins (GCL) 2002-Present, Montreal Expos (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1998-2001
Events Attended: None

Goodyear Ballpark

Goodyear, AZ

Opened: February 2009
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 10,311
Home Teams: Cleveland Indians (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 2009-Present, Cincinnati Reds (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 2010-Present
Events Attended: None

Photos courtesy:
Roger Dean Stadium-Wikimedia Commons and Jtesla16 under CC-SA 3.0 License
Goodyear Ballpark-Wikimedia Commons and Mike Padilla under CC-BY 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-March 29

Joker Marchant Stadium

Lakeland, FL

Opened: 1966
Expanded: 2003
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 7,027
Field Dimensions: Left Field-340 feet, Center Field-420 feet, Right Field-340 feet
Home Teams: Lakeland Tigers (Florida State League FSL), Detroit Tigers (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training), GCL Tigers (GCL)
Events Attended: None

Tempe Diablo Stadium

Tempe, AZ

Opened: 1968
Renovated: 2002
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 9,315 (includes disabled seating, lawn seats, suites and temporary bleachers)
Field Dimensions: Left Field-340 feet, Right Field-360 feet, Center Field-420 feet, Left Center-400 feet, Right Center-400 feet
Home Teams: Seattle Pilots/Milwaukee Brewers 1969-1972, Seattle Mariners 1977-1993, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 1993-Present
Events Attended: A morning workout before a game a couple years ago.  All of the major stars were there, including Vladdy.

Photos courtesy:
Joker Marchant Stadium-Wikimedia Commons and Mike Russell under CC-SA 3.0 License
Tempe Diablo Stadium-Wikimedia Commons and Brian Halvorsen under CC-BY 2.0 License  

Wide World of Sports Venues-March 23

Ed Smith Stadium

Sarasota, FL

Opened: 1989
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 7,500
Field Dimensions: Left Field-340 feet, Left Center-375 feet, Center Field-400 feet, Right Center-375 feet, Right Field-340 feet
Home Teams: Cincinnati Reds (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1998-2009, Chicago White Sox (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1989-1997, Baltimore Orioles (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1991, 2010-Present, Sarasota Reds (Florida State League, FSL) 1989-Present, GCL Reds (GCL)
Events Attended: None

Camelback Ranch

Glendale, AZ

Opened: March 1, 2009
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 10,000 seats, 3,000 berm (grass) seats.  Holds Cactus League record for largest crowd with 13,506 against the San Diego Padres on March 20, 2010.
Field Dimensions: Left Field-345 feet, Left Center-380 feet, Center Field-410 feet, Right Center-380 feet, Right Field-345 feet
Home Teams: Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 2009-Present, Chicago White Sox (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 2009-Present, Arizona League Dodgers (Arizona League) 2009-Present
Events Attended: None

Photo courtesy:
Camelback Ranch-Wikimedia Commons and Nick Panico under CC-SA 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-March 22

City of Palms Park

Fort Myers, FL

Opened: 1993
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 8,000 (2008)
Field Dimensions: Left Field-330 feet, Center Field-410 feet, Right Field-330 feet
Home Teams: Boston Red Sox (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training) 1992-Present, GCL Red Sox (GCL) 1992-Present
Events Attended: None

HoHoKam Park

Mesa, AZ

Opened: February 1997
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 12,623
Field Dimensions: Left Field-340 feet, Center Field-410 feet, Right Field-350 feet
Home Teams: Chicago Cubs (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 1997-Present, Mesa Solar Sox (AFL) 1997-Present, Mesa Miners (GBL) 2005, Arizona State (Pac-10) 2002
Events Attended: None

Photos courtesy:
Wikimedia Commons and HappyHarvick2962 under CC-SA 3.0 License
Wikimedia Commons and Friejose under CC-SA 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-March 18

Champion Stadium

Walt Disney World Resort

 Orlando, FL

Opened: 1997
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 9,500
Field Dimensions: Left Field-335 feet, Left Center-385 feet, Center Field-400 feet, Right Center-385 feet, Right Field-335 feet
Home Teams: Atlanta Braves (MLB Grapefruit League Spring Training), Gulf Coast Braves Gulf Coast League (GCL), Tampa Bay Rays (MLB) one three game series in 2007 and 2008, Orlando Rays (SL) 2000-2003
Events Attended: None

Tucson Electric Park

Tucson, AZ

Opened: 1998
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 11,500 (8,000 metal seats, 3,000 for lawn seating, 500 for standing areas)
Field Dimensions: Right.Left Field-340 feet, Center Field-405 feet
Home Teams: Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 1998-Present, Chicago White Sox (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 1998-2008, Tucson Sidewinders Pacific Coast League (PCL), 1998-2008
Events Attended: None

Photos courtesy:
Wikimedia Commons and Joe Shlabotnik under CC-BY 2.0 License
Wikimedia Commons and Friejose under CC-SA 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-March 17

After a way too long hiatus, the Wide World of Sports Venues has returned.  The focus now shifts to baseball with Spring Training venues.  Each of the following entries will have two Spring Training venues leading up to Opening Day.

George M. Steinbrenner Field A.K.A Legends Field

Tampa, FL

Opened: 1996
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 11,000
Field Dimensions: Left field-318 feet, Left center-399 feet, Center field-408 feet, Right center-385 feet, Right field-314 feet
Home Teams: New York Yankees (MLB Grapefruit Leage Spring Training) 1996-Present, Tampa Yankees (FSL) 1996-Present, FC Tampa Bay Rowdies (USSF D-2) 2010-Present
Events Attended: None

Surprise Stadium

Surprise, AZ

Opened: 2003
Surface: Grass
Capacity: 10,500
Field Dimensions: Left-350 feet, Center-400 feet, Right-350 feet
Home Teams: Kansas City Royals (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 2003-Present, Texas Rangers (MLB Cactus League Spring Training) 2003-Present, Surprise Rafters Arizona Fall League, (AFL) 2007-Present
Events Attended: Texas Rangers game versus the Angels a few years ago.  The Angels won.  

Photo courtesy:
Wikimedia Commons and Oughgh under CC-SA 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-February 24

BankAtlantic Center

Sunrise, FL

Opened: October 3, 1998
Construction Cost: $185 Million
Capacity: Basketball-20,737 Ice Hockey-19,250 Concerts-15,207-21,371 for End-Stage Concerts, 22,457 for Center-Stage Concerts
Home Teams: Florida Panthers (NHL) 1998-Present, Florida Pit Bulls (ABA) 2005-2006, Florida Bobcats (AFL) 1999-2001, Florida ThunderCats (NPSL) 1998-1999, Miami Caliente (LFL) 2009-Present
Events Attended: None

Photo courtesy:
Wikimedia Commons and Douglas Whitaker under CC-BY 2.5 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-February 23

St. Pete Times Forum

Tampa, FL

Opened: October 20, 1996
Construction Cost: $139 Million
Capacity: Ice Hockey-19,758 Basketball-20,500 Concert-21,500 Arena Football-19,500
Home Teams: Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) 1996-Present, Tampa Breeze (LFL) 2009-Present, Tampa Bay Storm (AFL) 1997-Present, NHL All Star Game (NHL) 1999, ACC Men's Basketball Tournament (NCAA) 2007, NCAA Women's Basketball Final Four (NCAA) 2008, NCAA Women's Volleyball Final Four (NCAA) 2009, NCAA Men's Frozen Four (NCAA) 2012
Events Attended: None

Wide World of Sports Venues-February 22

Amway Arena

Orlando, FL

It was known as TD Waterhouse Centre from 1999-2006

Opened: January 29, 1989
Construction Cost: $98 Million
Capacity: Basketball-17,519 Arena Football-15,924 Ice Hockey-15,948 Circus-15,788 Ice Skating-16,882 Concerts-17,740 End Stage, 18,039 Center Stage
Home Teams: Orlando Magic (NBA) 1989-2010, Orlando Titans (NLL) 2010, Orlando Predators (AFL/AF1) 1991-2008, 2010, Orlando Sharks (MISL) 2007-2008, Orlando Miracle (WNBA) 1999-2002, Orlando Solar Bears (IHL) 1995-2001, Orlando Seals (ACHL/WHA2) 2002-2004
Events Attended: None

Photo courtesy:
Wikimedia Commons and Flcelloguy under CC-SA 3.0 License

Wide World of Sports Venues-February 20

American Airlines Arena

Miami, FL

Opened: December 31, 1999
Construction Cost: $213 Million
Capacity-19,600 with upper levels, 16,000 without upper levels, can be configured in five ways with a minimum of 5,000 and a maximum of 20,000
Home Teams: Miami Heat (NBA) 2000-Present, Miami Sol (WNBA) 2000-2002
Events Attended: None

Wide World of Sports Venues-February 7

Sun Life Stadium

Miami, FL

Opened: August 16, 1987
Construction Cost: $115 Million
Capacity: 1993 Baseball-47,662 2001 Baseball-42,531 2003 Baseball-36,531 2006 Baseball-36,331 2008 Baseball-38,560 Soccer-74,916 Football-76,500
Home Teams: Miami Dolphins (NFL) 1987-Present, 1989, 1995, 1999, 2007 and 2010 Super Bowls (Peyton Manning Vs. Drew Brees in seven hours), University of Miami "The U" Hurricanes (NCAA) 2008-Present, Florida Marlins (MLB) 1993-2010, Florida Atlantic Owls (NCAA) 2001-2002, FedEx Orange Bowl 1996-1998, 2000-Present, Blockbuster/Carquest/MicronPC/Champs Sports Bowl 1990-2000
Events Attended: None

Tim's Two Cents-February 3

The Spectacle of Super Bowl Media Day.  As we get closer and closer to the big game in Miami, we are reminded how much of a party the Super Bowl has become.

The biggest example happened yesterday with Media Day.  This is where media from all over the world converge like locusts at the Super Bowl to interview players from the respective Super Bowl participants.

Usually, the players are asked meaningless questions that have nothing to do with football from members of the media who seem like they have never covered the game whatsoever in their career.  With that being said, it was somewhat interesting to see that the focus this year was on Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney's ankle  injury, making him questionable for Sunday's big game.  He'll probably play, but how effective he'll be, that's another question.

In a sense, Media Day has sort of turned into an Oscars Red Carpet special that nobody really cares about.  What true football fan really wants to know what kind of shoulder pads Drew Brees wears?  I certainly don't.  Questions like these must annoy those media members who are experts that have followed the game for years like Chris Mortensen and Adam Schefter.  Other media members who don't cover sports, especially football, have no business going to Media Day to cover the big game.

Photo courtesy:
Wikimedia Commons and BrokenSphere under CC-SA 3.0 License