Beginning in late February to near the end of March, most MLB teams will depart from their home cities for the warmer pastures of either Florida or Arizona. For one month, American and National League teams are a part of either the Grapefruit or Cactus League together. This is a great opportunity for fans to see their favorite players in action, get an early look at that big-name acquisition, or what the future holds by seeing a team’s top prospects compete against MLB talent. Games will typically take place at stadiums that house minor league teams often affiliated with the exact MLB organization. As baseball season begins, one thing every fan must do before they die is experience spring training. Here is my experience of seeing the New York Yankees at Spring Training.
Seating
Embed from Getty ImagesFor the past two years, I’ve been fortunate enough to make the pilgrimage to Tampa, Florida, and visit the New York Yankees spring home. New York is one of 15 teams that have spring training in Florida. The Yankees play their spring games at George M. Steinbrenner Field, also home to their single-A affiliate, the Tampa Tarpons. The stadium itself is not very big and seats just over 11,000 people. No matter what seat you choose, you’re guaranteed to get a great view.
Mini “Monument Park”
Outside the stadium, the Yankees have what can be described as a mini “monument park.” Near the main stadium gate, there is an area that honors all the great players who’ve had their number retired by the club. You’ll find famous players like Derek Jeter, Don Mattingly, Mariano Rivera, Mickey Mantle, and more in this spot. There is even a statue of “the boss” for which the stadium is honored in his name. The area is very accessible and is arguably one of the easiest places to take photos.
Ticket Pricing And How To Get There
I typically use Lyft to get to the ballpark which is much easier and less expensive than parking. Ticket pricing depends on the opponent. For example, when the Yankees were taking on the Mets, tickets could be higher than $90. However, they were significantly cheaper when the Bronx Bombers faced a team like the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Taking In A Game Can Be Done On A Budget
One way to take in a game without spending a ton of money is to buy the “Pinstripe Pass” tickets. The tickets cost less than $50! These are standing-room-only tickets, but they give you access to seats in the outfield. The seats come with tables, making it easier to put your food down. It also includes a free beer or soda! This truly is a real “bang for your buck.”
It Doesn’t Matter When You Go, Fun Is Guaranteed
Embed from Getty ImagesChoosing dates to go to spring training depends on what kind of experience you want to have. At the beginning of spring training, Minor leaguers and non-roster invitees will play for just about the whole game. Yankee veterans will typically only play in a couple of innings. During the later stages of the spring, the veterans could be in the game for five to six innings. You can’t go wrong with either experience.
A More Relaxed Atmosphere
Unlike during the regular season when the stakes are high, spring training is much more relaxed. Players and coaches are a little more receptive to interacting with fans. If you get their attention enough, they may even throw you a baseball. Before games begin, I’d highly recommend getting to the ballpark early to see batting practice. This typically takes place on a field just behind the ballpark. It’s very easy to find since a lot of people gather by it. You’ll be able to see a cluster of minor leaguers, non-roster invitees, and veterans all working on their swings. You can get as close as the dugout entrance where it’s possible to get a player’s attention.
How To Get Autographs
Embed from Getty ImagesGetting autographs isn’t easy. Walking around the ballpark or spring training complex multiple times won’t make it happen. Autograph signings happen very randomly and it’s a matter of being in the right place. They either happen along the baselines inside the stadium, near the complex dugouts next to the batting cage, or inside the leftfield foul territory. There is a fence in that area where you can try to stick a souvenir through the opening to try to get it signed. Always let the kids go first because the players notice!
An Opportunity To Meet High Ranking Front Office Members And Team Legends
You never know who you might run into at the ballpark. For the past two years, I’ve been able to meet GM Brian Cashman and franchise legends like Bucky Dent and Joe Girardi. Before a game this year, beloved former Yankee Nick Swisher was greeting fans at the front gate. Things like this seldom happen during the regular season. However, just like attempting to get autographs, you must be in the “right place at the right time.”
Every Fan Needs To Experience Spring Training
Visiting spring training is something every baseball fan needs to do before they die. Whether you decide to go early or later in spring training, you’re guaranteed to have fun. Given how small the stadiums are, it’s almost impossible to have a bad seat at the game. Even if you’re on a budget, there are still ways to get the most “bang for your buck”, such as with the Yankees’ “pinstripe pass.” With the more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll be able to have experiences that would otherwise rarely happen during the regular season. In baseball, there is no time filled with more hope and optimism than spring training.
For more on baseball, check out Belly Up Sports and follow Eric on Twitter. Featured Image: Getty Images
