MLB Spring Training Returns to Walt Disney World in 2023!
MLB Spring Training is temporarily returning to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in 2023! While my beloved Atlanta Braves called Walt Disney World home for Spring Training for several years; in 2023, it’s going to be the Tampa Bay Rays calling the facilities home for their pre-season workouts and one pre-season game.
Photo: Disney Parks
Per ClickOrlando.com, the Rays had to move their Spring Training for the 2023 season from their permanent home in Port Charlotte, Florida due to damage their facilities experienced from Hurricane Ian.
The Tampa Bay Rays will start their Spring Training operations at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Walt Disney World beginning February 6, 2023, with early arrivals. Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report on February 14, 2023.
Credit: Disney
On February 28, 2023, the Rays will host a Spring Training game at the Wide World of Sports Complex before finishing their Big League Spring Training home games at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida.
The Minor League arm of the Tampa Bay Rays will complete their entire home schedule in Walt Disney World at the ESPN Complex.
When approached by the Tampa Bay Rays organization about hosting their Spring Training activities, Walt Disney World was more than excited – and willing.
“We are thankful for Disney’s willingness and ability to accommodate our unexpected Spring Training needs,” Matt Silverman, President of the Tampa Bay Rays, said in a statement. “ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will provide our players and coaches with first-class facilities for their annual ramp-up to the season.”
Credit: Disney
Faron Kelly, Vice President of Disney Sports, stated, “We are thrilled to be bringing Major League Baseball back to the Walt Disney World Resort. We’re always looking for top-tier events, like the Rays’ Spring Training, for our Guests to enjoy at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.”
Tickets for Tampa Bay Rays Spring Training at the ESPN Complex in Walt Disney World – as well as at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg – will be available for purchase starting in January. Per the current schedule, it appears the Rays will be taking on the New York Yankees during their Spring Training game on February 28, 2023, at Walt Disney World. Make sure to keep it here with MickeyBlog.com for all of the latest!
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Image Credit: Disney
