Spring is in the air... Spring Training that is

As much of North America sits in the grip of yet another cold snap, there are jokes about relying upon a rodent to forecast the weather.  People are looking for any sign of winter releasing its grips and spring approaching.

One sign that spring is coming is Spring Training in baseball.  While it seems like it was just yesterday that the San Francisco Giants won the World Series, players have been reporting for training for a new season.  Early next week teams will begin their pre-season game schedule.

While spring training is in most cases held far from the actual home fields of the teams, the games are played in the sun, where temperatures are warmer than they have been, and, still are for most of us at home.  The Grapefruit League is based in Florida, and the Cactus League in Arizona.  Both those locations bring to mind sun, warm temperatures and better weather, and almost create a euphoria in the minds of many.

If you are a baseball fan, and are still looking to get away this winter, here is a good reason.  Take off for a few days, a week or more to follow your team.  Find the city where they play.  Check the game schedule.  Buy tickets for the games you want to see.  Book your plane ticket and accommodation.  Since you will likely be going to more than one stadium, you will want a rental car to get around.  Besides, in both Florida and Arizona you really need a car to get anywhere.

Attending a pre-season game can be a lot of fun.  The stadiums are much smaller than the major league stadiums at home, so no matter where you sit you are up close to the play.  You get to see your team's players from previous season, as well as the new one play.  It may give you an idea of what their season ahead will be like.

While your team will be playing some games at  their Spring Training stadium, they will also be playing at other stadiums in the area.  Most are not too distant, so a one or two hour drive will get you to the game.  As an example, staying in Lakeland, I have been able to take in games with Detroit Tigers (Lakeland), Toronto Blue Jays (Dunedin), Pittsburgh Pirates (Bradenton), Baltimore Orioles (Sarasota).  These are just some of the teams in the area.

School breaks begin in the next few weeks.  If you are heading south for the break with your kids, why not take in a game or two, or more.

Attending a Spring Training game is another great way to have some fun while you are in the sun.  It a great way to remind yourself about good weather and good times to come.

In all cases, remember the sunscreen.  Having attended numerous games in the Grapefruit League, I have managed to get a couple of unnecessary sunburns.  Caught up in the play you forget the effects of sitting in a stadium in direct sun...especially after being bundled up all winter.

For information about the Grapefruit League (click here) and the Cactus League (click here).