It is that time of year when the warm Florida sun pairs with the crack of a bat and the roar of a crowd to signal the start of the MLB spring training season. The destination: The East Coast of Florida. The charming allure of these spring training games captures the hearts of seasoned and new fans alike, making it a yearly pilgrimage for baseball enthusiasts. With its fascinating history, great displays of athleticism, and the comradery of baseball fans, understanding why this time of year is magical for many Florida residents is easy.
A Brief History of The Grapefruit League
Known as the Grapefruit League, Florida’s spring training is a century-old tradition. Since the early 1900’s when the Chicago Cubs ventured to Tampa to gear up for the upcoming season, each year from late February to March, Florida is now the hub for fifteen Major League Baseball (MLB) teams gearing up for the upcoming season. The other fifteen teams warm up in Arizona under the Cactus League!
With its picturesque beaches and ideal climate, this area of the country provides ideal conditions for these teams to sharpen their abilities, as opposed to the harsh winters up north.
Spring training allows the opportunity for teams to try out new players and develop team cohesion ahead of the official season kick-off.
Seasoned Fans Cherish MLB Spring Training Season
For long-time aficionados and new fans, MLB spring training on Florida’s east coast holds a special place in their hearts. The appeal lies not only in the thrilling matchups but also in the unique opportunity to immerse oneself in baseball’s raw, unfiltered energy. The tempo is laid-back and the environment tranquil, offering a stark contrast to the frenetic pace of the regular season. Compact stadiums with fewer spectators contribute to a close-knit, communal feel, creating a personal and engaging experience. Fans can witness the teams’ preparatory drills, secure autographs, and enjoy meaningful interactions with the players, a rarity once the official season kicks off.
The Five Teams That That Call Florida’s East Coast Home
Florida’s east coast plays host to five renowned teams during the MLB spring training season. These venues not only offer top-notch training facilities but also intimate viewing experiences for fans. Whether it is watching their favorite players up close or spotting future baseball stars, fans are in for a treat at these spring training home bases. The bonus is most of these parks are located closely to Garden Communities Florida properties. Perfect for a good old fashioned Florida day trip!
Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals- Jupiter, FL
The Miami Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals call the Roger Dean Stadium home during the spring training season. Located in beautiful Jupiter, FL, the drive to root for the Marlins is only a little over an hour from Harvard Apartments in Melbourne, FL. It is the perfect day trip!
New York Mets- Port St Lucie, FL
It is no secret that much of Florida is now home to many New York transplants. If you are missing sitting through innings at Citi Field to see the Mets, look no further than Clover Park in Port St Lucie which has been home to this beloved franchise since 1988.
Washington Nationals and Houston Astros- West Palm Beach, FL
The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, located in West Palm Beach, is the home of the 2022 World Series champions the Houston Astros as well as the Washington Nationals. This facility boasts 160 acres that is not only home to spring training but corporate functions, community walks, concerts, and festivals.
Garden Communities Florida Knocks Apartment Living Out of the Park
Living in a Garden Communities Florida apartment offers a myriad of benefits, even for those who revel in the thrill of spring training. These communities offer tranquil environments and beautiful landscapes, providing a perfect home base for baseball enthusiasts. With close proximity to training facilities, residents can easily indulge in their passion for the sport.
Can’t make it to the game? One of the many perks of living in a Garden Communities Florida apartment are the beautiful clubhouses where you and your friends can catch a game on tv. Even if you find yourself relaxing in the cool central air conditioning of your own home while watching a game, it is the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Make Florida your home with Garden Communities Florida!