From the Los Angeles Dodgers to the San Diego Padres, 15 Major League teams converge on Arizona for spring training. Across 10 stadiums, they launch their quests for October glory, shaping the first chapter of the MLB season.
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10 stadiums, 15 teams: Your Cactus League spring training guide
Photo by Times Of San Diego
Key Takeaways:
- The Cactus League involves 15 Major League teams in Arizona.
- Half of the entire MLB convenes here for their pre-season preparation.
- Ten stadiums host Cactus League games each spring.
- Teams such as the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres are featured.
- This pre-season gathering marks a vital step on the path to the World Series.
The Cactus League Tradition
The Cactus League marks the beginning of the year for half of Major League Baseball’s 30 teams. Every February, fans and players alike flock to Arizona’s sun-warmed ballparks to watch their favorite clubs prepare for the coming season. As noted in the original description, “The quest for the World Series has to begin somewhere, and for half of the 30 MLB teams, it starts in the Cactus League.”
Where 15 Teams Come Together
For these 15 teams—including storied franchises like the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres—spring training in Arizona is both a proving ground and a showcase. The mild weather and top-notch facilities allow athletes to sharpen their skills, while supporters get a thrilling preview of rising stars. Each year, fans anticipate performances that could shape the trajectory of an entire season.
Why Arizona Matters
Arizona’s climate provides the perfect backdrop for America’s favorite pastime each spring. These teams train vigorously, fine-tuning pitching, hitting, and fielding. The significance is twofold: players benefit from an environment conducive to preparation, and fans enjoy easy access to multiple teams within a relatively small radius.
Cactus League at a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Teams Participating | 15 |
| Number of Stadiums | 10 |
| Location | Arizona |
| Share of MLB Teams | Half of MLB (15 of 30) |
Path to the World Series
All of this early-season preparation aims to build momentum well into the fall. Though spring training records don’t count in the official standings, the foundational work done in Arizona has a direct impact once Opening Day arrives. Players and managers alike insist that the Cactus League sets the tone for the long season ahead—and just maybe for a run at baseball’s ultimate prize in October.
