Friday, March 11, 2011

Play Ball. It’s Time for Spring Training! Part II

One post is just not enough to cover all the great Spring Training activities taking place in Florida! So, we are building on last week’s blog and taking a look at a few more of the 15 MLB teams training here in Florida. You still have plenty of time to catch a game. Spring Training runs through the end of March.

Pittsburgh Pirates – For over 40 years, the Pirates have made the annual trek to Bradenton, Florida for Spring Training. McKechnie Stadium, built in 1923, is one of the oldest spring training stadiums in the country. In 1993, a major renovation was completed, keeping the old-time charm of the original stadium. You can purchase the cheapest reserved seats in all of spring training – just $20. Plus, over a third of the seats are covered to protect you from that warm Florida sun.

Baltimore Orioles – The Orioles made the right decision two years ago when they decided to move to Sarasota, Florida. Ed Smith Stadium just underwent a $31 million renovation to give the ballpark a more traditional feel. There is even more covered seating, better concessions, and an improved left field picnic area. Parking is expensive at $9 per car. Tickets range from $8 to $29.

St. Louis Cardinals / Florida Marlins – The Cardinals and Marlins share Jupiter’s Roger Dean Stadium, so you have a pretty good chance of seeing a game every day of the week. Since this is the only spring training venue in South Florida, tickets can go fast. Fans love to spread their blankets out on the berm to catch some baseball and some of Florida’s famous sunshine. Autograph seekers will want to head down to the first and third base lines – these ball players are more than willing to give their biggest fans a souvenir they will never forget. Ticket range from $8 to $35. Parking is $7.

Philadelphia Phillies - There is no doubt that you are in Florida as you enter Bright House Networks Field in Clearwater. Dozens of palm trees greet you as you walk up to the stadium. With not a bad seat in the house, fans get to take in this World Series Championship team while munching on Philly Cheesesteaks and downing a few glasses of Yuengling. For a real tropical feel, stop by their famous Tiki Bar. Parking is $9. Ticket prices range between $13 and $34.

For more information about spring training in Florida, visit the following websites: www.floridagrapefruitleague.com or www.springtrainingonline.com.

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