States Look to Lure Baseball Teams for Spring Training

Posted by: Nate Berg

1 April 2008 - 5:00am

As some baseball teams end their runs at Spring Training sites in Florida and Arizona, the two states clamor to attract teams and the economic benefits that follow.

"Spring training in Florida is over with the start of Major League Baseball’s regular 162-game season this week, and it’s also the end of an era for Florida cities like Vero Beach, Winter Haven, St. Petersburg and perhaps Sarasota, which are losing teams to Arizona or new Florida locales."

"Florida this year played host to 18 Major League Baseball teams and Arizona was the training home of 12. It will be 16-14, respectively, in 2009, or an even 15-15 if the Cincinnati Reds leave Sarasota, as they’re threatening to do."

"Local pride and the possibility of economic benefits are at stake as the states slug it out to attract teams for the annual six-week ritual. Teams use their time in the warm weather to test out new players, work out returning veterans and decide on their coming year’s roster."

Full Story: Ariz., Fla. duel for spring training role

Source: Stateline, March 31, 2008