Camelback Ranch in Glendale was one of two new Cactus League ballparks to open in 2009. The other was Goodyear Ballpark, host to the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians. The Los Angeles Dodgers, long the anchor of the Grapefruit League, had trained in Vero Beach, FL from 1948-2008 before relocating to Arizona. The Dodgers share the Camelback Ranch complex with the Chicago White Sox who moved up I-10 from Tucson where they had trained from 1998-2008.
There is no spring training site more distinctive that Camelback Ranch. In addition to the stadium, 13 practice fields, clubhouses and training facilities for each team, the complex features unique features that make it a family destination. There is a 1,300-foot lake system that is stocked with bass, bluegill, carp, catfish and turtles. Fans can take walking paths along the water and between the practice diamonds. There is also an orange grove and a bandstand which provides daily music performances. The fan-friendly atmosphere provides for up-close-and-personal interaction between players and fans. It truly is state-of-the-art. During the summer, the Dodgers rookie level Arizona League team plays on the complex fields.
Camelback Ranch FAQs
The Dodgers began their 17-game home schedule on February 23.
The White Sox began their 16-game home schedule on February 24.
Camelback Ranch
10710 West Camelback Rd.; Glendale, AZ 85037
Capacity: 13,000; Dimensions: LF 345’; CF 410’; RF 345’
Dodgers in 2012:
Regular Season: 86-76, second place, NL West;
Spring Training: 15-15-4
White Sox in 2012:
Regular Season: 85-77, second place, AL Central
Spring Training: 14-18-1
Tips: The White Sox have six home games left with marquee match-ups on Wednesday, March 20 against the Diamondbacks and Monday, March 25 against the Angels. Two weekend games remain on March 16 vs. the A’s and March 24 vs. the Royals. All games start at 1:05. The Dodgers host the Brewers on St. Patrick’s Day (March 17). They also play the Diamondbacks (March 18); Athletics (19); Reds (22); White Sox (23) and Rockies (26) The Rockies game is under the lights with first pitch at 7:05. Get to the park early and take in the whole experience—batting practice, the walkway near the water features and some music from the bandstand.
Comments