Day 4: Visiting Pirates And Orioles Spring Camps

Day four of my exclusive Legends On Deck Grapefruit League Spring Training journey, had me traveling south with my first stop at Pirate City on Monday morning, which is located in Palmetto, Florida. Wow!….. This camp is a Baseball Spring Training paradise, right up there with the Philadelphia Phillies Clearwater camp.

Parking is just few yards to the camp entrance, which is an A+ for me. As I made my way into the park, I was greeted by a very friendly security staff that was eager to converse with the fans. There was a small concession truck to the right and restrooms and a souvenir shop in the center of the four beautiful fields. Although there was only pitchers and catchers present, there was plenty of action on the fields and a nice bullpen area were you could see live pitching close up. Players conversed with fans and the interaction was positive as players walked between the two fields. I fed off the excitement of the Pirates fans as they communicated with the players and amongst themselves. I saw a few autographs being signed, and the overall experience was phenomenal, as the green grass and the sunshine just made for a picture perfect experience. If you’re a die-hard Pirates fan, this camp needs to be on your bucket list because you won’t be disappointed.

If you’re an all around baseball fan or Orioles fanatic, a quick 30-minute drive south to Sarasota and you’ll experience the beauty of the Orioles Spring Training Home and gorgeous stadium. Unfortunately, when I arrived the practice had concluded for a Charity Golf Outing, but I had the opportunity to walk the grounds. This complex is very large, and there is parking, but you will be doing some walking, (which as you know I’m not a big fan of) as the four practice fields are located behind the main stadium. There is a restaurant in the stadium as well as across the street which is a plus for the hungry fan. As for autographs, fans were lined up at the players parking exit waiting to catch a glimpse of their favorite Orioles ball player, with most hoping for a rare autograph, but I have rarely seen players sign at this time, but if your dedicated and don’t mind waiting around, then go for it.

Overall, a great experience with two great camps.