Play Ball Spring 2022 by AZ Big Media

The exclusive publication of the Cactus League

2022

SPRING TRAINING — GUIDE —

Arizona Diamondbacks Chicago Cubs Chicago White Sox Cincinnati Reds Cleveland Guardians Colorado Rockies Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Angels Los Angeles Dodgers Milwaukee Brewers Oakland Athletics San Diego Padres San Francisco Giants Seattle Mariners Texas Rangers

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1 | Play Ball Magazine

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6

Welcome

Cactus League Timeline

Arizona Diamondbacks

Chicago Cubs

Chicago White Sox

Cincinnati Reds

Limited time offer

Cleveland Guardians

Colorado Rockies

Kansas City Royals

Los Angeles Angels

Los Angeles Dodgers

Milwaukee Brewers

Oakland Athletics

San Diego Padres

San Francisco Giants

Seattle Mariners

Texas Rangers

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President and CEO: Michael Atkinson Publisher: Amy Lindsey Vice president of operations: Audrey Webb

EDITORIAL Editor in chief: Michael Gossie Staff writers: Kyle Backer | Erin Thorburn

ART Design director: Bruce Andersen Art director: Mike Mertes Marketing designer: Heather Barnhill

MARKETING/EVENTS Digital marketing specialist: Chrissy Souders Marketing & event specialist: Lynette Carrington

OFFICE Special projects manager: Sara Fregapane Database solutions manager: Amanda Bruno PLAY BALL | EXPERIENCE ARIZONA Account executive: David Ealy

AZ BUSINESS MAGAZINE Senior account executives: David Harken | April Rice Account executive: Maria Hansen

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The Cactus League

Welcomes You! O

n behalf of the Cactus League, welcome to the 2022 spring training season. Spring training means different things to different people. For prospects, it’s an opportunity to make the big club. For veterans, it’s a time to tune up for the rigors of the Major League Baseball season. For the fans, it’s a symbol of hope and renewal. And for Arizona’s tourism industry, spring training is an annual lifeline. The Cactus League generated $644 million in economic impact in 2018, the most recent full season studied by Arizona State University researchers. The study found that six out of 10 Cactus League fans come from outside Arizona. After two COVID-disrupted seasons and a delay this year due to labor negotiations, local restaurants, bars, hotels and shops are looking forward to hosting our out-of-state visitors once again – and I know that fans across the country are looking forward to enjoying baseball in the dazzling desert sunshine. The Cactus League is a baseball lover’s paradise. With all 10 ballparks within an hour of each other, fans can follow their favorite teams on the road and sample the league’s unique ballparks. Before the first pitch and after the final out, the Phoenix area offers a wealth of entertainment and outdoor activities to fill anyone’s itinerary.

As always, we are grateful to the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority for its strong support of Cactus League facility construction and renovation, ensuring that Arizona’s spring training facilities set the standard in a competitive industry. I also wish to thank each of the Cactus League’s eight host municipalities and the tribal community for their steadfast efforts to provide a safe and secure environment for all. They met every logistical challenge over the last two seasons and I know that they will step up to the plate again in 2022. We couldn’t do it without the stadium volunteers who contribute their time to help you enjoy your day at the ballpark – please take a moment and say hello, because it means the world to these friendly, community-minded folks. Finally, I salute Play Ball Magazine, a valued partner and the go-to source for all things Cactus League. Play Ball!

Chris Calcaterra Cactus League president

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS

BRIDGET BINSBACHER Executive director

CHRIS CALCATERRA President City of Peoria

JEFF MEYER

Past president Scottsdale Charros

BRUCE KESSMAN Secretary City of Goodyear

cactusleague.com 6 | Play Ball Magazine

KENDRA PETTIS Treasurer City of Surprise

DAVID DUNNE Team Member Representative Salt River Fields

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HOME RUN The executive director of the Cactus League outlines the impact and the anticipation of spring training baseball in 2022 By MICHAEL GOSSIE

other, wife, businesswoman, volunteer and member of the Peoria City Council, Bridget Binsbacher has been a tireless leader in the community for more than 30 years. And as the first executive director of the Cactus League, her dedication to service is unparalleled. Play Ball magazine sat down with Binsbacher to find out what fans can expect from spring training in 2022. Play Ball: What attracted you to the Cactus League? Bridget Binsbacher: I transitioned from the financial industry back in the mid-2000s to the nonprofit sector and took over one of our spring training nonprofit organizations. That’s where I was introduced to the Cactus League Association. I became a representative of that nonprofit, eventually moved up to an executive board member, where I was the first voting female executive board member with the Cactus League Baseball Association. Then, we started to form a formal structure for the organization and focus on our strategic plan and initiatives. We committed to a dedicated leadership, building a staff and putting an executive director in place. So, there I was. PB: You’re such an effective leader for the Cactus League. Were you a baseball fan before you got involved? BB: I have always been a baseball fan. I was born and raised in San Diego, so when I was just a little girl, I remember going to 8 | Play Ball Magazine

games at Jack Murphy Stadium. Bu if anyone were to ask me about my role in baseball, it’s been primarily as a baseball mom. My boys and even my daughter played Little League baseball. I was also a baseball sister and a baseball granddaughter. My grandfather played in a farm league nearly 100 years ago back in the 1930s, and so baseball was a big part of my childhood and my life. My uncle played in spring training a lifetime ago. So I have a love of the game and such an appreciation for the opportunities that it brings. PB: What opportunities does baseball bring to Arizona? BB: The Cactus League, though baseball, creates this unbelievable opportunity in Arizona. It truly is an Arizona brand that affects tourism in a remarkable way. We truly do drive tourism and impact the state’s economy in a huge way year after year after year. PB: Can you talk a little bit about the economic impact that the league has had on the state? BB: The last few years have been kind of tricky because of the pandemic. Our last full economic impact study was done in 2018. We’re committed to doing it every other year, so we were planning to do it in 2020, but baseball stopped March 12th. Our economic impact in 2018 was $644 million. That’s the equivalent of a Super Bowl. Continued on page 12

BRIDGET BINSBACHER: “Serving is an honor,” says the executive director of the Cactus League. “Being elected and trusted to serve the citizens of Peoria is truly the highest professional honor for me. Leading the Cactus League Baseball Association is another exciting and impactful accomplishment that serves our great state of Arizona.” (Photo by Bruce Andersen AZ Big Media) Play Ball Magazine | 9

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Play Ball Magazine | 11

Continued from page 8

PB: I don’t think people realize how economically impactful the Cactus League is on the state. BB: That’s because we’re just so excited about baseball. There are only two places in the nation that host spring training — Arizona and Florida. Fifteen teams in Arizona and 15 teams in Florida. It’s a tremendous opportunity, but people have fallen in love with Arizona for decades now after coming here to watch spring training and getting up close and personal. As a result of that amazing opportunity, the Cactus League has become an industry all its own and a driver of tourism with a significant impact on the state’s economy. So $644 million — it’s significant for lodging, transportation, restaurants, entertainment, and the livelihood for so many of these privately-owned businesses surrounding our facilities. PB: You’ve been one of Arizona Business Magazine’s most influential women and you work in a very male-dominated business. Has that presented any challenges? BB: To be quite honest, my mindset has always been about what I have to contribute, my qualifications, working hard and getting a job done. I think because I always saw myself as a contributor and belonging in that seat at the table, people saw me the same way. It wasn’t intentional that we made history in the Cactus League. We wanted the right people moving it to the next level, and I was there and became part of that team. When it was time to actually commit to a full-time executive director, the executive board had become very familiar with me. We had built a trusting relationship and they saw what my impact was and really took a chance and put me there. It wasn’t really about me being a female as it was the right candidate for the job, and that’s how I approached it. PB: What has been the impact of being a female leader for the Cactus League? BB: We made history and then so many different organizations started reaching out to me, young women at GCU and ASU asking, “How do you do this?” I realized what a big responsibility it was to other young up-and-coming female leaders, whether in sports or any industry. “How do I attain that type of opportunity?” So much of it is us and how we present ourselves and stay out of our own way and know that we’re worthy of these opportunities and we can earn them just like anyone else. PB: What can we expect from the Cactus League in 2022? BB: We know that fans are so excited about getting back to spring training. Our facilities are all outdoor facilities. We 12 | Play Ball Magazine

anticipate full capacity and we’re ready, so we are planning and we’re going through the steps to keep everyone safe. I think what fans can anticipate that we’re going to fill our stadiums for the first time in three years. That’s what we anticipate. We want to be realistic and let our fans know that there are probably going to be protocols in place, that’s sort of become the new normal as a result of the pandemic. So, cashless transactions will still be present in our facilities and there may be distancing and just the common sense that goes with maintaining a safe, healthy environment. I think we can expect that. PB: One of the things that’s always impressed me about the Cactus League is how all the communities kind of work together and how you work so effectively with your partners and stakeholders. Can you talk a little bit about how you’ve been able to build that kind of teamwork in the Cactus League? BB: I think once we put dedicated leadership in place, that really took it to another level. Then, the pandemic created so many obstacles for everyone, but at the same time it sort of forced us to really pull together and work together like we never had before for a greater good, for a greater cause to create a safe environment to welcome fans into our facilities, even if it was at a minimal capacity. I think we’ve all understood through all of the education and outreach in the last couple of years, that this is about an impact to the state’s economy. It isn’t automatic, it’s a very, very competitive environment, so it’s important for the general public to understand why it’s important to invest in these facilities, to maintain state-of-the-art facilities, maintain solid relationships with our teams. It takes all of these city leaders, the tribal leaders to work together to maintain a welcoming environment for spring training. PB: Any surprises on the horizon for the Cactus League in 2022? BB: I think the biggest surprise is going to be how wonderful it feels to fill these stadiums and the energy that you get. A lot of times we don’t even notice because we take it for granted as locals. You see a difference on the roads as far as traffic, and there’s more people in restaurants and shops and things like that, and it’s a certain energy that starts to build up when spring training is coming and all the excitement. In brings You see jerseys from different teams and all of that, and I think the surprise is going to be, gosh, how much we miss and enjoy having spring training in Arizona.

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Play Ball Magazine | 13 Peoria Glendale Scottsdale Goodyear Happy Valley Chandler Tucson

heart-pumping things to do during Cactus League season

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

here is plenty of action at the Valley’s Cactus League stadiums, where 15 major league teams are based during spring training. Even though you’re in the stands, that doesn’t mean you cannot still be part of the action. There are plenty of heart-pumping things to do after a Cactus League game in the Valley. Want more fun after the final inning comes to a close? Here are five things to do after a Cactus League game to keep the fun rolling and adrenaline pumping.

360 Adventures Arizona adventure tours by 360 Adventures take the worry out of exploring so you can focus on having fun. While Arizona features some of the world’s greatest Canyoneering, Rock Climbing, Hiking and Mountain Biking, finding the right outfitter takes some planning. Phone: 480-722-0360 810 Bowling & Billiards 810 Billiards & Bowling creates a fun and casual atmosphere where anyone can feel welcomed and relaxed. Maybe you to relax over a quiet game of chess and a glass of wine? Or maybe a night of billiards or a few frames of 10-pin? Whatever your preference, 810 Bowling & Billiard has you covered. Address: 50 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix 14 | Play Ball Magazine

Medieval Times After watching a modern sport, travel back to the time of knights and kings to enjoy dinner and a show. Medieval Times, located in Scottsdale, pits knights and their brave steeds against one another in epic battles as they fight to become the queen’s champion. See the royal falcon take flight and perform at the command of the royal falconer. It won’t take long before you’re pounding the table and shouting huzzah in support of your knight. Address: 9051 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale Octane Raceway Located less than a mile from Salt River Fields, Octane Raceway is a destination for thrill seekers. Kart races offer heart pumping action on a combination indoor/outdoor track—the only ful-ltime indoor/outdoor track in the nation. For those looking for an immersive experience, Velocity VR lets players use their whole bodies as a controller in three different virtual reality games. Bring in your Spring Training ticket stub and receive $10 off two go kart races or $10 off a Velocity VR session. Address: 9119 E Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale

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Play Ball Magazine | 17

A look back at the

HISTORY OF THE CACTUS LEAGUE Chicago’s White Stockings (White Sox) are the first Major League team to play a barnstorming game in Arizona. They defeat Yuma’s team 9-1. Chicago Cubs treasurer Earl Nelson visits Mesa to discuss the possibility of moving the Cubs to town for spring training. Larry Doby, who joined the Indians during the 1947 season, arrives for spring training in Tucson, becoming the first AfricanAmerican to play in the Cactus League.

The New York Yankees and their cross-town rival Giants swap spring training sites. The one-year-only swap is at the request of Yankees co-owner Del Webb, who wants to show off his World Series champion Yankees in his hometown. Phoenix fans are treated to seeing the first spring season of Mickey Mantle and the last of Joe DiMaggio.

It’s been 72 years since Arizona’s sunshine convinced two Major League baseball teams to make their spring training home in the Grand Canyon state. Since then, a who’s who of baseball royalty have helped make the Cactus League what it is today. Names like Bill Veeck, Ernie Banks, Del Webb, Dwight Patterson, Ted Williams, Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle have all played roles in the history of the Cactus League. Here’s a look at the history of spring training in Arizona.

1909

1929

1942

1947 1948

1951 1952

1954

The Boston Red Sox take up residence at Scottsdale Stadium and stay until 1965. Cactus League fans are treated to the final two seasons of Ted Williams’ career and the beginning years of Carl Yastrzemski’s career.

1959

After relocating to San Francisco in 1958, Horace Stoneham’s Giants begin training at a new practice facility in Casa Grande known as Francisco Grande. Built with modern amenities, Francisco Grande is primarily a training site for the team – the Giants will continue to play games at Phoenix Municipal Stadium.

1961

The Giants move from “old” Phoenix Municipal Stadium to a new Phoenix Muni. Willie McCovey inaugurates the new $891,380 park with the first hit and Willie Mays hits the stadium’s first home run.

18 | Play Ball Magazine

The Detroit Tigers become the first team to hold their spring training in Arizona. They play several games against local teams and two exhibitions against big league competition at Phoenix Riverside Park. But in 1930, the Tigers move their spring camp to California and never return to Arizona.

1962

1964

1969 1970

The Chicago Cubs become the third team to take up residence in Arizona when they move their spring training base from Catalina Island to Mesa’s Rendezvous Park.

After buying the Cleveland Indians in 1946, Bill Veeck, who owns a ranch near Tucson, convinces New York Giants owner Horace Stoneham to move his club’s spring training operation to Phoenix, while the Indians will train in Tucson. It marks the first time two Major League teams hold spring training in Arizona, establishing the foundation for what will become the Cactus League.

(spring) The Baltimore Orioles train in Yuma. With their arrival, spring training in Arizona is officially referred to as the “Cactus League” as there are now four teams. After a year in Florida in 1955, the Orioles are lured back to Scottsdale with a brand-new ballpark and stay until 1959.

(fall) The New York Giants win the first allCactus League World Series, sweeping the Cleveland Indians in four games. Among the highlights in the now legendary over-the-shoulder catch by Giants center fielder Willie Mays that prevents a Cleveland rally with two men on base.

The American League-expansion Los Angeles Angels join the Cactus League, playing half of its games in Palm Springs and half in Arizona. The National League-expansion Houston Colt 45s (now the Astros) make their spring training home at Geronimo Park in Apache Junction. The team’s arrival expands the Cactus League to six teams. The American League Seattle Pilots (Tempe) and the National League San Diego Padres (Yuma) join other teams training in Arizona. Charlie Finley’s A’s become the third addition to the league when they bring spring training back to Mesa. The A’s go on to win World Series titles three straight years (1972-74) while training in Mesa. The Pilots show up to spring training wearing one uniform and leave to wear another. During spring training, the bankrupt Seattle team is sold to Milwaukee businessman and future MLB Commissioner Bud Selig. When they left spring training, they left as the Milwaukee Brewers.

Hohokam Stadium replaces Rendezvous Park in Mesa for spring training. The Oakland Athletics move into the new ballpark.

1977

The A’s and Giants trade places when San Francisco moves to Scottsdale and Oakland takes over Phoenix Municipal Stadium.

1984

Enticed by a new stadium and complex, the Indians leave Tucson for Florida, but expansion softens the blow as the Colorado Rockies take up spring residence at Hi Corbett Field. That same year, the Angels leave Palm Springs completely for a renovated Tempe Diablo Stadium.

1993

As teams demand bigger, better facilities, a new Hohokam Stadium replaces the smaller park of the same name. The new park sets a Cactus League single-game record for attendance when 12,833 fans watch the Cubs play the Rockies on March 28. The Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers relocate their spring operations from Florida and move into a new $48 million shared complex in Surprise as the Cactus League grows to 12 teams.

1994

1997

1998

A new era begins when the City of Peoria opens a new $32 million complex and the San Diego Padres relocate from Yuma to share the new facility with the Mariners. The idea of shared facilities is one that will drive ballpark construction for the future.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are born and so is a new-shared complex with the Chicago White Sox in Tucson. The $37 million Electric Park opens that spring, giving Tucson three teams as the Cactus League grows to 10 teams.

2003

2006

The Cleveland Indians return to the Cactus League at a new complex in the Town of Goodyear. The Cincinnati Reds join the Indians in Goodyear in 2010.

Another expansion team — the Seattle Mariners — moves into Tempe’s ballpark. Unlike the previous tenant, the Mariners commit themselves for the long haul. They will be partners with the City of Tempe for the next 25 years.

The White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers announce that they will be moving their spring operations to a new complex in Glendale. Camelback Ranch in Glendale opens to rave reviews in 2009.

2009 2010 2011

2014

With the addition of the Dodgers, Indians and Reds, the Cactus League now boasts a 15-team circuit. Half of all Major League teams now train in Arizona and for the first time, the Cactus League is equal to Florida’s Grapefruit League in size. The Rockies and Diamondbacks open a new facility within the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community in Scottsdale. The move leaves Tucson without spring training baseball for the first time since 1947. Mesa opens a new ballpark for the Chicago Cubs. The stadium has several elements reminiscent of Wrigley Field, including dark green light towers, metal work on the upper deck and a press box facade that looks similar to Wrigley.

2015 Two teams from the Cactus League once again face off in the World Series, as the Chicago Cubs defeat the Cleveland Indians in seven games.

2016

2017 Four pioneering African-American players are inducted to the Cactus Hall of Fame: Larry Doby, Willie Mays, Monte Irvin and Ernie Banks, all four of whom were among the first group of players to integrate spring training baseball in Arizona.

2019 2020 2022

Actor Will Ferrell plays all nine positions in Cactus League games while filming a baseball special with HBO and Funny or Die. He uses a helicopter to get around between different games. Following a year-long, $60 million renovation, the Milwaukee Brewers played in a completely renovated ballpark that was renamed the American Family Fields of Phoenix. The Brewers saw the Cactus League’s biggest jump, with an average of 7,434 per game, up 31 percent from 2018.

The Cactus League cancels play just two weeks into the season in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Cactus League celebrates its 75th year in Arizona.

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Play Ball Magazine | 21

CACTUS LEAGUE SPRING TRAINING STADIUM MAP

22 | Play Ball Magazine

CactusLeague.com

SCAN THE CODE TO VISIT THE CACTUS LEAGUE.COM MAP

Play Ball Magazine | 23

TIPS

SPRING TRAINING By MEG KRIVANEC

You’ve applied your sunscreen, adjusted your ballcap, grabbed a bit of cash and are ready to throw back a few cold ones at the ballpark. However, there’s a bit more to attending a spring training game than you might realize. From etiquette to pre- and post-game bonuses, read these tips and tricks — just to ensure you’ve covered all your bases!

FAIR

FOUL

• Map out the games you want to attend. To get seats to the games you want to see, you must plan ahead. Some weekday games are a little slower to fill up, but usually it’s not the case.

• Don’t ask for autographs if you are an adult.

• Get to the games early. You don’t want to miss batting practice, and you want good seats and good parking. (Note: Some teams hold workouts after a game, too.) • K now the stadium. Is parking free? Do the concession stands accept plastic? Does the home team always sit along the 1st base line, or does it switch at so-and-so stadium? • Have the supplies you need to beat the weather: sunglasses and sunscreen. Sitting outside for a few hours can be hard even for a native Arizonan. • Drink water. The sun and a cold beer are a winning combination until you get heat stroke. Stay hydrated with a water between drinks. • Trash talk is OK within reason. Half the fun of going to the ballpark is portraying pride in your team.

24 | Play Ball Magazine

• Don’t call an ump a ref. We know football is still fresh in everyone’s mind, but it’s time to get your head in the ballgame! • Don’t push little kids out of the way for a fly ball. • Don’t only go to games; Enjoy the rest of the Greater Phoenix Area while in town. • Don’t attempt to take aerosol cans, lawn chairs or other equipment without verifying that it’s allowed. • Don’t wear clothes or jerseys in support of a team that’s not playing. You don’t have to root for the home team, but it’s tacky to support one that isn’t even in the dugout. • Don’t interfere with the game.

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2022

CACTUS LEAGUE SCHEDULE CACTUS LEAGUE STADIUMS

GLENDALE: Camelback Ranch-Glendale, 10710 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix

| ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS - Salt River Fields

CHC | CHICAGO CUBS - Sloan Park CWS | CHICAGO WHITE SOX - Camelback Ranch-Glendale

GOODYEAR: Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear

CIN | CINCINNATI REDS - Goodyear Ballpark

MESA ATHLETICS: Hohokam Stadium, 1235 N. Center St., Mesa

CLE | CLEVELAND GUARDIANS - Goodyear Ballpark

MESA CUBS: Sloan Park, 2330 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Mesa SALT RIVER: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale SCOTTSDALE: Scottsdale Stadium, 7408 E. Osborn Rd., Scottsdale

COL | COLORADO ROCKIES - Salt River Fields at Talking Stick KC

| KANSAS CITY ROYALS - Surprise Stadium

LAA | LOS ANGELES ANGELS - Tempe Diablo Stadium LAD | LOS ANGELES DODGERS - Camelback Ranch-Glendale

SURPRISE: Surprise Stadium, 15930 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise

MIL | MILWAUKEE BREWERS - American Family Fields of Phoenix

TEMPE: Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe

OAK | OAKLAND ATHLETICS - Hohokam Stadium

PEORIA: Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria PHOENIX: American Family Fields of Phoenix, 3805 N. 53rd Ave., Phoenix

| SAN DIEGO PADRES - Peoria Sports Complex

| SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS - Scottsdale Stadium

SEA | SEATTLE MARINERS - Peoria Sports Complex TEX | TEXAS RANGERS - Surprise Stadium

CACTUS LEAGUE SCHEDULE: The 2022 Cactus League schedule is subject to change, based on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Major League Baseball lockout. To see the latest Cactus League schedules for all the teams, scan this QR code.

28 | Play Ball Magazine

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS WHERE THEY PLAY: Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85258 SEATING CAPACITY: 11,000 STADIUM WEBSITE: saltriverfields.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: DBacks.com/spring

ABOUT THE STADIUM: Located within and owned by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Salt River Fields opened in 2011 and is the first Major League Spring Training facility ever built on Native American land. The spring training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies offers one of the most entertaining and lavish spring training experiences. Enjoy a range of indulgent food items such as the Talking Stick Mega Dog, which features a half-pound, foot-long hot dog topped with pork and mac-n-cheese. There’s also the Cold Stone Kids Fun Field, where kids can pretend to be sluggers with a whiffle ball, and run the bases like a big leaguer. BALLPARK HISTORY: The complex represents the first MLB park to be built on Native American Indian land.

AFTER THE GAME: Feel what it’s like to fall out of a plane at iFly, an indoor skydiving facility, located at The Pavilions at 9206 E. Talking Stick Way in Scottsdale. DIAMONDBACKS’ 2021 SEASON: The 2021 Diamondbacks finished the year with a record of 52-110, good for fifth place in the NL West. PLAYERS TO WATCH: Nick Ahmed SS; Madison Bumgarner, P; Ketel Marte 2B/OF; David Peralta OF; Christian Walker, 1B LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 2001 MANAGER: Torey Lovullo TEAM MASCOT: Baxter

TEAM SCHEDULE: The 2022 Cactus League schedule is subject to change, based on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Major League Baseball lockout. To see the latest Cactus League schedules for all the teams, scan this QR code.

Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism 30 | Play Ball Magazine

T R E A S U R E YO U R

MOMENT

@PlayAtGila | PlayAtGila.com | 800-WIN-GILA | Owned and operated by the Gila River Indian Community

CHICAGO CUBS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Sloan Park, 2330 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Mesa, AZ 85201 SEATING CAPACITY: 14,156 STADIUM CONTACT: website - sloanpark.com; email - mesa@cubs.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: cubs.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: Sloan Park is lovingly called “Wrigleyville West” by Cubs fans and locals. This spring training facility opened in 2014 and offers a truly unique experience for Chicago Cubs fans. There are many homages to Wrigley Field at Sloan Park, from a replica marquee sign where fans can get their photos taken to the outfield berm that is shaped to resemble the bleachers in Chicago. The roof replicates parts of the Cubs’ home field in Chicago as well. Sloan Park is located near both the Pima and Red Mountain Freeways near Mesa’s Riverview Park, making it easy for fans to make the journey. This facility has been respectfully built for both the fans and players, so they can feel perfectly at home in the Cactus League. BALLPARK TRADITION: Fans love to sing “Go Cubs Go” after a Cubs win. TASTY TREAT: What better item does Sloan Park serve than the world-famous Chicago Dog?

CUBS’ 2021 SEASON: The Cubs finished 2021 with a record of 71-91, placing fourth in the National League Central Division. LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 2016 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Marcus Stroman, RHP; Kyle Hendricks, RHP; Willson Contreras, C; Jason Heyward, OF. MANAGER: David Ross TEAM MASCOT: Clark AFTER THE GAME: Head to Downtown Mesa and visit the only natural history museum in the greater Phoenix area The Arizona Museum of Natural History features exhibits of natural and cultural history of the Southwestern United States.

Photo courtesy of Visit Phoenix 2015 Kerrick James 32 | Play Ball Magazine

CHICAGO WHITE SOX

WHERE THEY PLAY: Camelback Ranch-Glendale, 10710 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85037 SEATING CAPACITY: 13,300 STADIUM CONTACT: camelbackranchbaseball.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: whitesox.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: Camelback Ranch-Glendale (CR-G) begins its 14th season as the spring home of the White Sox in 2022. The successful public-private partnership between the White Sox, their CR-G partner Los Angeles Dodgers, and the City of Glendale features a 141-acre campus, largest in the Cactus League, and a state-of-theart stadium. A unique five-acre water feature (connected lake, river and pond) divides the campus into east (Dodgers) and west (White Sox) and provides irrigation for fields and landscaping plus aesthetic enhancement.

WHITE SOX 2021 SEASON: Hall of Famer Tony La Russa began his second tenure as White Sox manager by leading the club to its first American League Central Division title since 2008 and its second consecutive postseason appearance. The 93-win season bettered the 90-win plateau for the first time since 2006. Closer Liam Hendriks won the Mariano Rivera A.L Reliever of the Year Award by leading the American League in saves (38). LHP Dallas Keuchel earned a Gold Glove.

BALLPARK TRADITION: Spinning turnstiles, free morning workouts, and free parking are CR-G traditions. The White Sox and Dodgers drew over 200,000 fans in 11 of their first 12 seasons in the award-winning ballpark (excluding 2021 COVID-19 restricted attendance). The White Sox honor their history with displays recognizing their great players of the past along the water feature. The six-foot White Sox logo proximate to the practice fields screams “photo op.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Tim Anderson (SS), Aaron Bummer (LHP), Dylan Cease (RHP), Garrett Crochet (LHP), Lucas Giolito (RHP), Yasmani Grandal (C), Kendall Graveman (RHP), Liam Hendriks (RHP), Eloy Jimenez (LF), Dallas Keuchel (LHP), Michael Kopech (RHP), Yoan Moncada (3B) and Luis Robert (CF), Gavin Sheets (1B/OF), Andrew Vaughn (IB/OF).

TASTY TREATS: CR-G concession offerings are varied and include typical baseball fare in addition to popular novelty items like Chicago Dogs, Dodgers Dogs, a 17-inch pizza slice and assorted sausage sandwiches. Two Three Amigos Bars, located along the first and third baselines, highlight an array of domestic and imported beers available throughout the ballpark. Additionally, the Four Peaks Patio Bar, a unique outdoor sports bar concept located in the right-field corner, offers a sausage grill and full bar with beer and spirits. Two other popular fan stops are Wok-Off Noodles and two team stores (home plate, center field).

LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 2005

MANAGER: Hall of Famer Tony La Russa TEAM MASCOT: Southpaw AFTER THE GAME: The Westgate Entertainment District, including Tanger Outlets, offers a wide variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options just minutes from Camelback Ranch-Glendale.

Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism 34 | Play Ball Magazine

CINCINNATI REDS

LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 1990

ABOUT THE STADIUM: Goodyear Ballpark, spring training home of the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds, is located just 20 minutes west of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. The ballpark features a 360-degree concourse with a constant field view, shaded club seating, an oasis of lawn seating, six luxurious suites and an inviting pavilion beyond right field.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Joey Votto, 1B; Eugenio Suarez, 3B; Luis Castillo, RHP; Sonny Gray, RHP; Jesse Winker, OF; Jonathan India, 2B; Tyler Stephenson, C.

TASTY TREAT: Grab some Ohio flavor in the Team Shop with some Montgomery Inn BBQ sauce. INTERESTING FACT: Goodyear Ballpark is the only Cactus League ballpark to have its own mascot - Ace.

TEAM MASCOT: Mr. Redlegs AFTER THE GAME: Goodyear is one of the fastest growing cities in the Valley of the Sun, and with that more places are popping up to enjoy after the game. Saddle Mountain Brewing Company (Goodyear’s only microbrewery) is just two miles north of the ballpark, and a variety of other restaurants and things to do may be found at visitgoodyear.com.

REDS’ 2021 SEASON: The Reds again posted a winning record with an 83-79 mark, good for third place in the rough and tumble NL Central Division. Along with solid veteran performances, 2021 featured the emergence of several young rising stars including All-Star Jesse Winker and NL Rookie of the Year Jonathan India.

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CLEVELAND GUARDIANS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear, AZ 85338 SEATING CAPACITY: 10,311 STADIUM CONTACT: Phone is 623-882-3130; website is goodyearbp.com; and email is ballpark@goodyearaz.gov SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: cleguardians.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: Goodyear Ballpark, spring training home of the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds, is located just 20 minutes west of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. The ballpark features a 360-degree concourse with a constant field view, shaded club seating, an oasis of lawn seating, six luxurious suites and an inviting pavilion beyond right field.

LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 1948 PLAYERS TO WATCH: 3B José Ramίrez, RHP Shane Bieber, RHP Cal Quantrill, RHP Aaron Civale, INF Amed Rosario, RHP Emmanuel Clase, OF Myles Straw, OF/DH Franmil Reyes, RHP Zach Plesac

MANAGER: Terry Francona TASTY TREAT: If you long for a genuine taste from Cleveland, grab a hot dog and apply TEAM MASCOT: Slider some Bertman Ball Park mustard. AFTER THE GAME: Enjoy some micro-brew at Saddle Mountain Brewing Company, the INTERESTING FACT: The concession stand located behind the center field wall was first of its kind in Goodyear, just down the road at 15651 W. Roosevelt St. in Goodyear. named Hangar 46 due to the proximity of the Phoenix-Goodyear airport and the date If you’re lucky and it’s on tap, try a Taildragger Clan-Destine Scottish Ale, which won gold the City of Goodyear was incorporated. medals for three consecutive years (2017-2019) at the Great American Beer Festival, the CLEVELAND’S 2021 SEASON: Cleveland finished two games below the .500 mark at world’s largest commercial beer competition. 80-82 (.494), ending a streak of eight consecutive winning seasons when Cleveland led the A.L. in wins from 2013-2020 (2nd-most in MLB), which had been the club’s longest such stretch of winning campaigns since 1994-2001 (8) ... finished 2nd in the AL Central standings behind the Chicago White Sox. Once again José Ramίrez was in the AL MVP conversation (sixth place) and RHP Emmanuel Clase posted a 1.29 ERA and finished fifth in the AL Rookie of the Year voting.

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COLORADO ROCKIES

WHERE THEY PLAY: Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85258 SEATING CAPACITY: 11,000 STADIUM WEBSITE: saltriverfields.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: rockies.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: Salt River Fields, which is home to both the Colorado Rockies and the Arizona Diamondbacks, features many great experiences for spring training fans. The concession stands serve out-of-this-world treats, including a quarter-pound hot dog wrapped in bacon. The roof of the facility is unique, in that it mimics the traditional Native American ramada. There are sweeping views of the surrounding desert and a lovely lawn for fans to sit and relax on. Don’t forget, there are many other spots around the facility that are open for fans to stand in and enjoy the game from. TASTY TREATS: Streets of New York Pizza and Salty Senorita Taco Bar both have stands here. INTERESTING FACT: Salt River Fields is the first LEED Gold-certified sports venue of its kind in the United States. It was designed so that people in the seats will not have the sun in their face, and many seats will be in the shade most of the game.

WORLD SERIES HISTORY: The Rockies have appeared in one World Series, losing to the Boston Red Sox in 2007. PLAYERS TO WATCH: RHP Germán Márquez, RHP Antonio Senzatela, LHP Kyle Freeland, LHP Austin Gomber, INF Ryan McMahon, INF Brendan Rodger, 1B C.J. Cron, OF Charlie Blackmon MANAGER: Bud Black TEAM MASCOT: Dinger AFTER THE GAME: Head over to America’s largest indoor butterfly pavilion, Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E. Vía de Ventura in Scottsdale, for a one-of-a-kind experience that will captivate both children and adults alike.

ROCKIES’ 2021 SEASON: For the third consecutive season the Rockies finished in fourth place in the NL West, finishing the 2021 season with a 74-87 record.LAST

Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism 38 | Play Ball Magazine

Arizona’s Playground

With so many places to play, you’ll want to extend your stay!

Welcome back sprin

g trainin

g fans! The past few years have been hard for ev eryone, but our commitmen t to delivering safe an d memorable entertain ment options for yo u, your friends and yo ur family has not wa vered! The Salt River Indi an Community’s Talking Stick Enter tainment District is Arizona’s biggest and best pla ce to play and stay and we hope that yo time to visit us and u’ll find explore new propertie s like Great Wolf Lo Medieval Times Dinn dge AZ, er and Tournamen t and the USS Ariz Memorial Gardens ona at Salt River. The Sa lt River Indian Com heritage of hospitalit m unity’s y is shining through and we look forward seeing you soon! to

Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Scottsdale, AZ | 480.362.2700 TalkingStickArizona.com

KANSAS CITY ROYALS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Surprise Stadium, 15930 N. Bullard Avenue, Surprise, AZ 85374 SEATING CAPACITY: 10,714 STADIUM CONTACT: SurpriseStadium.com and Info@surprisestadium.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: mlb.com/royals/spring-training ABOUT THE STADIUM: Surprise Stadium, named the No. 1 ballpark in all of the Cactus League by USA Today and voted Best Spring Training Facility by Foothills Magazine in 2020, is home to the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers. The venue prides itself on two things, being a classic spring training facility for baseball enthusiasts and a family friendly atmosphere for fans of all ages. The park features unparalleled fan access to the (FREE!) as well as free parking for everyone coming to the game. Make sure and check out the great food and drink selection within Surprise Stadium, including KC BBQ, homemade tacos, and many other ballpark favorites. Thirsty? Make sure and try the local microbrews from Arizona’s own Huss Brewing Co. as well as Kansas City favorite Boulevard Brewing Company. INTERESTING FACT: Surprise Stadium is located 45 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport via I-10 to the New Loop 303 Freeway and Bell Rd, right in the middle of the City of Surprise’s award winning Recreation Campus, featuring a Championship Tennis and Racquet Complex, aquatics center, parks, lakes, sports facilities and many other public amenities. Get to the stadium early and head over to In-n-Out Burger for a pre-game experience that is a Spring Training must.

TASTY TREATS: Try the Cactus Corn Dog, a signature items at Surprise Stadium, beer battered smoked sausage corn dogs, topped with jalapeno honey mustard – we promise this tasty treat is one of a kind! ROYALS’ 2021 SEASON: The Royals finished the 2021 season with a 74-88 (.457) record, their best mark since going 80-82 in 2017, improving their win percentage for the third consecutive season. They went 38-35 (.521) following the All-Star break, a run that was powered by Salvador Perez’s 48 home runs, which matched the franchise’s singleseason record. LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 2015 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Salvador Perez, C; Whit Merrifield, INF/OF; Adalberto Mondesi, INF; Nicky Lopez, INF; Hunter Dozier, INF/OF; Andrew Benintendi, OF; Michael A. Taylor, OF; Brad Keller, RHP; Brady Singer, RHP; Scott Barlow, RHP; Josh Staumont, RHP. MANAGER: Mike Matheny TEAM MASCOT: Sluggerrr AFTER THE GAME: Hungry? Stop by Saigon Kitchen in Surprise, located about 3 minutes from the ballpark and try their award winning Filet Mignon Shaken Beef, a true Royals favorite. 14071 W. Bell Rd.

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LOS ANGELES ANGELS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282 SEATING CAPACITY: 9,600 STADIUM WEBSITE: tempe.gov/diablo SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: angels.com/tickets/spring-training ABOUT THE STADIUM: Tempe Diablo Stadium is the Cactus League’s oldest and smallest spring training facility, but well known for drawing big crowds, placing in the Top 6 in team attendance for the last six seasons. Not only is the ballpark one of the more picturesque facilities, built on top of a hill overlooking the beautiful Marriott Buttes Resort, it’s also known for great player access — perfect for autographs. Originally opened in 1968, the stadium underwent an extensive $20 million renovation in 2005 and was rededicated on Mar. 3, 2006. The renovation included the main stadium, the Major League Fields and the Minor League Complex on site. TASTY TREATS: There are multiple stands down the left field and right field patios full of options for domestic and craft beers as well as traditional ballpark fare, ice cream, and food trucks.

ANGELS’ 2021 SEASON: The Angels finished the season 77-85 and in fourth place in the AL West. LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 2002 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Shohei Ohtani, SP, DH, Mike Trout, CF, Anthony Rendon, 3B, David Fletcher, 2B MANAGER: Joe Maddon AFTER THE GAME: Visit Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281, for a day/night of shopping, dining and entertainment, or grab a tasty bite and drink along Mill Avenue in the heart of Downtown Tempe with some local ASU Sun Devils.

Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism 42 | Play Ball Magazine

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LOS ANGELES DODGERS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Camelback Ranch-Glendale, 10710 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85037 SEATING CAPACITY: 13,300 STADIUM CONTACT: camelbackranchbaseball.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: dodgers.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: Camelback Ranch-Glendale (CR-G) begins its 14th season as the spring home of the Dodgers in 2022. The successful public-private partnership between the Dodgers, their CR-G partner Chicago White Sox, and the City of Glendale features a 141-acre campus, largest in the Cactus League, and a state-of-the-art stadium. A unique five-acre water feature (connected lake, river and pond) divides the campus into east (Dodgers) and west (White Sox) and provides irrigation for fields and landscaping plus aesthetic enhancement.

DODGERS’ 2021 SEASON: The Dodgers narrowly missed winning their ninth consecutive National League West Division title despite winning 106 games. It was the third time in the past five seasons the Dodgers eclipsed 100 victories. They defeated the St. Louis Cardinals in the N.L. Wild Card Game and bettered the San Francisco Giants in the N.L. Division Series before falling to the eventual World Series champion Atlanta Braves in the N.L. Championship Series.

BALLPARK TRADITION: Spinning turnstiles, free morning workouts, and free parking are CR-G traditions. The Dodgers and White Sox drew over 200,000 fans in 11 of their first 12 seasons in the award-winning ballpark (excluding 2021 COVID-19 restricted attendance). The Dodgers honor their history with displays recognizing their great players of the past along the water feature. The six-foot Dodger logo proximate to the practice fields screams “photo op.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Cody Bellinger (1B/OF), Mookie Betts (RF), Walker Buehler (RHP), Gavin Lux (IF/OF), Max Muncy (IF), Will Smith (C), Chris Taylor (IF/OF), Trea Turner (IF), Julio Urias (LHP).

TASTY TREATS: CR-G concession offerings are varied and include typical baseball fare in addition to popular novelty items like Chicago Dogs, Dodgers Dogs, a 17-inch pizza slice and assorted sausage sandwiches. Two Three Amigos Bars, located along the first and third baselines, highlight an array of domestic and imported beers available throughout the ballpark. Additionally, the Four Peaks Patio Bar, located in the right-field corner, offers a sausage grill and full bar. Two other popular fan stops are Wok-Off Noodles and two team stores (home plate, center field).

LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 2020

MANAGER: Dave Roberts AFTER THE GAME: The Westgate Entertainment District, including Tanger Outlets, offers a wide variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options just minutes from Camelback Ranch-Glendale.

Photo courtesy of Visit Phoenix 44 | Play Ball Magazine

MILWAUKEE BREWERS

WHERE THEY PLAY: American Family Fields of Phoenix, 3805 N 53rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85031 SEATING CAPACITY: 10,000 including the Poba Party Patio, Mortenson Courtyard, and 2 party suites STADIUM CONTACT: phxtickets@brewers.com or brewers.com/springtraining SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: brewers.com/spring PURCHASE TICKETS: online or by phone 800-933-7890; groups email phxtickets@ brewers.com ABOUT THE STADIUM: American Family Fields of Phoenix is the only spring training facility in the Cactus League located within the City of Phoenix. The state-of-the-art complex provides an intimate baseball experience with a recessed playing field, shaded concourse, 7,000 fixed seats, and ample berm space for catching home run balls! TASTY TREATS: Wisconsin favorites such as breaded cheese curds and Johnsonville Smoked Brats along with local BBQ, vegan and gluten-free options, Nathan’s Famous All Beef Hot Dogs, Maui Wowi, El Cafezito, and a selection of local Valley beers is sure to delight fans!

BREWERS’ 2021 SEASON: The Milwaukee Brewers finished 95-67 and won their third N.L. Central Division Championship. Marking their fourth straight year in the postseason, they squared off in the NLDS against the eventual World Series Champions, Atlanta Braves. WORLD SERIES HISTORY: The Brewers’ first and only World Series appearance was in 1982, but were defeated by the St. Louis Cardinals. PLAYERS TO WATCH: Corbin Burnes, RHP; Brandon Woodruff, RHP; Josh Hader, LHP; Devin Williams, RHP; Christian Yelich, OF; Lorenzo Cain, OF; Hunter Renfroe, OF; Omar Narváez, C; Willy Adames, SS; Kolten Wong, 2B MANAGER: Craig Counsell TEAM MASCOT: Bernie Brewer AFTER THE GAME: Head on over to your local Port of Subs and cash in the coupon on the back of your game ticket to enjoy their buy one get one FREE offer on any small, medium, or large sub.

Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism Play Ball Magazine | 45

OAKLAND ATHLETICS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Hohokam Stadium, 1235 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ 85201 SEATING CAPACITY: 10,000 STADIUM CONTACT: spring@athletics.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: athletics.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: In 1977, the Oakland Athletics opened the then newly built Hohokam Stadium. Thirty-seven years later, the A’s returned to Hohokam, this time to a newly renovated state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Mesa. With fresh green-andgold paint, a new shaded terrace level, upgraded concessions and a high-definition scoreboard, Hohokam Stadium is the perfect place to catch an A’s game. In addition to multi-level seating, the stadium offers visitors plenty of shaded seating and picnic areas — a perfect place to feast on Bay-Area inspired food and beverage options.

ATHLETICS’ 2021 SEASON: The A’s 2021 season had it’s ups and downs. They started the year with a six game losing streak, but then immediately rattled off 13 straight wins and were contending for the AL West title until the end of the season. Despite being 10 games over .500, the A’s finished 3rd in their division and missed the playoffs for the first time in 3 years. The team will look to get back to the post season in 2022 under their new manager Mark Kotsay.

TASTY TREATS: Hohokam Stadium offers some of the best specialty food options in the Cactus League. Visit the Left Field Deck area for a delicious variety of local restaurants and non-traditional ballpark plates.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Sean Murphy, C; Chris Bassitt, SP; Matt Olson, 1B

INTERESTING FACT: Unlike most Cactus League teams, the A’s take batting practice in the stadium before the game. So get to the ballpark early to catch a homerun and grab some autographs.

LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 1989 MANAGER: Mark Kotsay TEAM MASCOT: Stomper AFTER THE GAME: Check out Mesa Riverview, a regional, open-air destination shopping center featuring dining, shopping and entertainment of a wide variety for all ages, located near Dobson Road and Loop 202.

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SAN DIEGO PADRES

WORLD SERIES HISTORY: The Padres made it to the Fall Classic in 1984 and 1998, but have yet to win a World Series.

BALLPARK TRADITION: Sundays are kids days and after the game kids in attendance can take the field and run the bases.

MANAGER: Bob Melvin

TASTY TREATS: Craft burgers and beers, gourmet pretzels and chicken-loaded nachos are just some of the premiere samplings at Peoria Stadium!

AFTER THE GAME: Experience the abundant dining, retail, nightlife and theater scene of the P83 Entertainment District!

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Fernando Tatis, SS; Manny Machado, 3B; Jake Cronenworth, IF MASCOT: Swinging Friar

TEAM’S 2021 SEASON: The Padres entered the season with high expectations and held a playoff position in the Wild Card standings from April to late August before struggling down the stretch to finish 79-83.

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SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Scottsdale Stadium, 7408 E. Osborn Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 SEATING CAPACITY: 12,000 STADIUM CONTACT: Website is scottsdaleaz.gov/scottsdale-stadium; email is stadiuminfo@scottsdaleaz.gov PURCHASE TICKETS: mlb.com/giants/tickets/spring-training ABOUT THE STADIUM: Tucked into the heart of vibrant Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale Stadium has been home to cactus league baseball since the 1950’s. Proudly hosting the San Francisco Giants since 1984. The historic ballpark has plenty to offer, including picturesque views of Camelback Mountain and McDowell Mountains. A large selection of food and beverages, shaded grass areas, and a spring training experience like no other ballpark can offer. The new Stadium opened on the same plot of land as the original in 1992. The facility received a update in 2020 with new clubhouse facilities, event spaces, and all new entry gate called “Home Plate Plaza.” The fun does not stop one the game is over. Old Town Scottsdale, just a short walk from the ballpark, boasts exciting bars, restaurants, shops, stores, and art galleries. GIANTS’ 2021 SEASON: The Giants won a franchise-record 107 games last season and finished the regular season with the best record in the Majors at 107-55. The club captured its first NL West Division Title since 2012 and its sixth overall NL West crown.

The Giants were good on both sides of the ball with an offense that set a franchise record for home runs and led the National League in home runs. On the mound, SF’s pitching staff posted a 3.24 ERA, second-best in the Majors only to the Dodgers. LAST WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP: 2014 MANAGER: Gabe Kapler TEAM MASCOT: Lou Seal AFTER THE GAME: Scottsdale Stadium is located in historic Old Town, just steps away from a choice of several things to do for everyone, including shopping, dining, live entertainment, art galleries and more! To find you after game spot visit oldtownscottsdaleaz.com.

Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism 48 | Play Ball Magazine

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SEATTLE MARINERS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria, AZ 85382 SEATING CAPACITY: 12,518 STADIUM WEBSITE: peoriasportscomplex.com SPRING TRAINING INFORMATION: mariners.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: The crown jewel of Peoria’s recreation facilities, Peoria Sports Complex was the first two-team spring training facility. The ballpark boasts desired fan amenities with plentiful shaded seating, an air-conditioned group space, a large team store and autograph opportunities. BALLPARK TRADITION: Every week a game is designated for Dog Days and fans can bring their canine friends to sit on the lawn and watch baseball! TASTY TREATS: Craft burgers and beers, foot-long bratwursts and beef-loaded nachos are just a few of the delectable offerings at Peoria Stadium!

WORLD SERIES HISTORY: The Mariners have made the playoffs in 2001, 2000, 1997 and 1995, but have not yet won the World Series. PLAYERS TO WATCH: J.P. Crawford, SS; Ty France, IF; Jarred Kelenic, OF MANAGER: Scott Servais TEAM MASCOT: Mariner Moose AFTER THE GAME: Enjoy the abundant hiking, golfing and boating opportunities of Peoria’s own great outdoors!

MARINERS’ 2021 SEASON: The Mariners exceeded expectations, vying for a playoff spot in thrilling fashion to the very last day of the season, finishing second in the A.L. West Division with a 90-72 record.

50 | Play Ball Magazine

TEXAS RANGERS

WHERE THEY PLAY: Surprise Stadium, 15930 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise, AZ 85374 SEATING CAPACITY: 10,714 STADIUM CONTACT: SurpriseStadium.com and Info@surprisestadium.com PURCHASE TICKETS: rangers.com/spring ABOUT THE STADIUM: Surprise Stadium, named the No. 1 Ballpark in all of the Cactus League by USA Today and voted Best Spring Training Facility by Foothills Magazine in 2020, is home to the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers. The venue prides itself on two things, being a classic spring training facility for baseball enthusiasts and a family friendly atmosphere for fans of all ages. The park features unparalleled fan access to the practice fields everyday (FREE!). INTERESTING FACT: Surprise Stadium is located 45 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport via I-10 to the New Loop 303 Freeway and Bell Rd, right in the middle of the City of Surprise’s award winning Recreation Campus, featuring a Championship Tennis and Racquet Complex, aquatics center, parks, lakes, sports facilities and many other public amenities. Get to the stadium early and head over to In-n-Out Burger for a pre-game experience that is a Spring Training must. TASTY TREATS: Try the NEW Tenders, Love and Chicken, a new signature stand at Surprise Stadium, featuring craveable homemade Chicken Tenders, hand-tossed golden fries compete with a variety of specialty self-serve dipping sauces we promise these tenders are one of a kind!

RANGERS’ 2021 SEASON: The Texas Rangers had a 60-102 record and finished in fifth place in the A.L. West Division in 2021. The Rangers established a club record with a .986 fielding percentage and committed the fewest errors ever at 83. Texas also ranked third in the A.L. with 106 stolen bases. OF Adolis Garcia became the first player to be selected as both the Rangers Player and Rookie of the Year in the same season after leading the team with 31 homers and 91 RBI. Starting pitcher Dane Dunning was the first rookie to ever earn Rangers Pitcher of the Year honors. WORLD SERIES HISTORY: The Rangers made it to the World Series in both 2010 and 2011, but have yet to win a World Series. PLAYERS TO WATCH: RHP Dane Dunning, OF Adolis Garcia, RHP Jon Gray, INF Isiah Kiner-Falefa, SS Corey Seager, 2B Marcus Semien MANAGER: Chris Woodward TEAM MASCOT: Rangers Captain AFTER THE GAME: Head to Uptown Alley, 13525 N. Litchfield Rd., Surprise, AZ 85379. The entertainment center boasts things to do for all ages including a 40-lane bowling alley, laser tag, billiards room, sports theatre and Red Embers Bar & Grill.

52 | Play Ball Magazine

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