Joshua R. Pahigian

Though it has changed some in recent years, spring training continues to be a time of renewal for baseball. Teams and fans, many from the snowy climes of the North, descend on Florida and Arizona to begin preparing for what they are sure will be a trip to the World Series. With the pace of the game a little slower, fans close to the action, and players more accessible, the sport seems to return to its roots for a brief, idyllic time. Based on the author's visits to each of the 26 current spring training ballparks--17 in Florida and 9 in Arizona--this reference work first provides a detailed description of the ballpark as it currently exists, plus information on its history. Next comes the spring training history of the resident major league team (or teams, for the four parks that are shared), along with information about noteworthy spring training sites that were, or still are, located near the existing ballpark. Information on the area surrounding the ballpark completes the entry, focusing on other baseball and sports-related attractions in the area. An appendix provides a full listing of every major league team's spring training sites since 1914. Heavily illustrated.