In Florida, baseball fans know that the month of February signifies the true arrival of spring.
Our climate is pleasant year round, so the shift hardly reflects a meaningful difference in weather. Instead, it is the re-emergence of the national pastime that truly marks the dawn of spring throughout 15 communities in the Sunshine State.
One of those proud hamlets for springtime baseball is Port Charlotte. The mid-size town, located along the plush banks of the Peace River on Florida's Gulf Coast, is the seasonal home of the Tampa Bay Rays.
The defending American League wildcard winners have held spring training at the recently-renovated Charlotte Sports Park for the past 3 seasons. Only 80 miles south of their summertime home at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, the facility has proven popular with players and fans alike.
On Monday, February 20, the successful tandem of manager Joe Maddon and general manager Andrew Friedman held an opening day press conference to welcome the media and loyal supporters to Charlotte Sports Park.
The 45 minute presentation was demonstrative of the Rays' emphasis on creating a relaxed atmosphere, while still boldly embodying confidence. Though the squad has often played the role of underdogs in years past, Maddon made it clear that he "likes the idea of expectations being raised."
Tampa Bay's first organized workout occurred on Tuesday, February 21. Pitchers, catchers, and players recovering from injury traditionally arrive first at spring training. In 2012, some 38 pitchers and catchers reported, but a large percentage of the 59 men invited to camp showed up on day one.
While hitters trained and took batting practice, the dominant emphasis during the initial week has been preparing the team's hurlers. On four separate fields, coaches have organized drills to help pitchers get comfortable with their motions, releases, fielding, and positioning.
A fifth station has been set up between the fields to simulate bullpen throwing. During the morning sessions, players have split into groups and a horn sounds every 15 minutes for moving to the next challenge.
Thousands of fans arrived during the past week to witness this free form of baseball. Not only can one learn how professionals prepare for the new season, but many players sweeten the deal by signing autographs and posing for photos.
Furthermore, spring workouts are a unique opportunity to observe athletes perform without a scoreboard in sight.
Though most have already begun their workouts, the entire team is due to report this weekend. Following another week of training, Tampa Bay's Grapefruit League schedule of exhibition games begins on Saturday, March 3.
Charlotte Sports Park hosts its first spring contest a day later, as the Rays welcome the Minnesota Twins on Sunday, March 4.
Be sure to check the Photo Gallery above for a closer look at the action from Rays' camp. Special thanks to photographer Andrew Nystrom for assistance in capturing these great shots.
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