Spring Training Baseball Games in Sarasota

The crack of the bat… the roar of the crowd… the smell of popcorn in the air - it’s that time of the year again when the boys of summer begin their annual pursuit of a title that will end this fall with one team winning the World Series.  Sarasota, Florida, is a popular destination for spring training for the Baltimore Orioles and the Atlanta Braves.  If you're planning to attend spring training in Sarasota, here's a guide to help you make the most of your baseball experience:

Experience the Excitement of Spring Training

Spring training marks the beginning of a new baseball season, bringing hope and excitement for fans eager to see their favorite teams and players back in action.  It's a time of renewed optimism and enthusiasm for both players and fans alike.  Spring training serves as a crucial time for player development and roster decisions.  Fans can witness up-and-coming prospects compete for roster spots alongside established veterans, adding an element of intrigue to the games.  Spring training games often have a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere compared to regular season games.  Families can enjoy affordable ticket prices, concessions, and activities tailored for children, making it a great outing for fans of all ages.

Where to See the Orioles and Braves Play

The Baltimore Orioles conduct their spring training at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota (2700 12th St, Sarasota, FL 34237).  They are a part of the Grapefruit League, which means they play their games in Florida.  Tickets for home games can be purchased at https://www.mlb.com/orioles/tickets/spring-training/my-tickets, or at the stadium box office.

The Atlanta Braves hold their spring training sessions at CoolToday Park in North Port, (18800 S West Villages Pkwy, Venice, FL 34293) which is about an hour's drive from Sarasota.  Tickets for home games can be purchased at https://www.mlb.com/braves/tickets/spring-training, or at the stadium box office.

Sarasota:  The Perfect Baseball Destination

If you're in Sarasota, Florida, for spring training, you have several Major League Baseball teams within a reasonable driving distance for you to visit. Besides the Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves, here are some teams with their respective spring training locations that you can consider visiting:

Tampa Bay Rays

Spring Training Location: Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte, Florida (2300 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 3394 - approximately 40 minutes south of Sarasota).

Pittsburgh Pirates

Spring Training Location: LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida (1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205 - approximately 30 minutes northwest of Sarasota)

Philadelphia Phillies

Spring Training Location: BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Florida (601 N, Old Coachman Rd., Clearwater, FL 33765 - approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes north of Sarasota)

Toronto Blue Jays

Spring Training Location: TD Ballpark in Dunedin, Florida (373 Douglas Ave, Dunedin, FL 34698 - approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Sarasota)

Get Up Close with Players

Unlike regular season games, spring training offers fans an opportunity to get up close and personal with players.  Fans can watch workouts, attend autograph sessions, and interact with players in a more relaxed and intimate setting.  Here are a few tips to enhance your chances of interacting with players.

Arrive Early

Players often arrive early for workouts and practice sessions.  Arriving early increases your chances of catching players before they hit the field for formal activities.

Attend Open Practices

Many teams hold open practices where fans can watch players warm up, take batting practice, and participate in drills.  Check the team's schedule for any open practice sessions and make sure to attend.

Seek Autograph Opportunities

Players often sign autographs for fans before or after practices and games.  Bring a baseball, glove, or other memorabilia for players to sign, and be prepared to politely ask for autographs.

Position Yourself Strategically

Position yourself along the sidelines or near the player entrances where players are likely to pass by.  Be respectful of boundaries and avoid obstructing players' paths.

Follow Social Media

Many players and teams share updates on social media about spring training activities, including appearances, meet-and-greets, and fan events.  Follow players and teams on social media platforms to stay informed about potential opportunities to meet them.

Make Memories at the Ballpark

Spring training is a great time to bond with family and friends and watch a major league sporting event in a relaxed environment, and of course, enjoy some of that great Florida weather.  Many people schedule their vacations around spring training.  Why not try it for yourself?

Schedule Your Accommodation in the Heart of it All

If you want to be in the middle of the action, there is no better place to stay than on Siesta Key, home to one of the best beaches in America.  There isn’t a better accommodation on Siesta Key than The Inn on Siesta Key.  Here you can experience vintage Florida while enjoying all the amenities of home.  From baseballs to beach balls, you can experience it all in Siesta Key.