You! Yes You! Wanna Catch Some Cactus League Capers? (A Guide to Watching 2023** Spring Training** Like a Pro)
Ah, Spring Training. A magical time when baseball players swap their cozy pajamas for slightly-tighter uniforms and trade their hitting woes for...well, slightly different hitting woes under the warm Arizona sun. But for us fans, it's a glorious return to the game we love. Hot dogs! Foul balls! Questionable pitching mechanics! What's not to love?
But here's the rub: Unlike the regular season, where every game is televised like the Super Bowl (with slightly less Beyonce), Spring Training can be a bit of a broadcast mystery. Fear not, fellow baseball fanatic! This guide will have you navigating the glorious mess of Spring Training broadcasts like a seasoned veteran (or at least someone who doesn't accidentally tune into curling).
Where to Watch: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure
- Option 1: The Hometown Hero (For the die-hard fan)
Die-hard for your local team? Then your first stop should be your Regional Sports Network (RSN). These local channels are your best bet to catch most of your team's Spring Training games. Just be prepared for some serious homer announcers who might mistake a routine flyout for a game-winning grand slam.
- Option 2: The Channel Surfer (For the indecisive fan)
Feeling a little, well, indecisive about which game to watch? Flip on MLB Network. This channel is your one-stop shop for all things Spring Training, with a healthy dose of classic games and player interviews thrown in for good measure. Just be prepared for that awkward moment when they accidentally broadcast a replay of the 1987 All-Star Game where you totally forgot your team's mascot used to wear roller skates.
- Option 3: The Streaming Samurai (For the cord-cutter fan)
Ditched cable? No problem! MLB.TV offers a subscription service that lets you stream (almost) every Spring Training game out of market. It's like having your own personal baseball buffet, except with slightly fewer questionable nacho options. Be warned though, there might be local blackout restrictions, so you might miss your hometown team if they're playing nearby.
Bonus Tip: The Social Media Sleuth (For the fan who likes their baseball with a side of memes)
Follow your favorite teams and MLB personalities on social media. They'll often post updates on where to watch games, along with a healthy dose of behind-the-scenes content and, of course, hilarious Spring Training bloopers. Who doesn't love watching a million-dollar athlete trip over a sprinkler head?
So there you have it! With a little planning and this handy guide, you'll be watching more Spring Training than a cactus has needles. Just remember, it's all about enjoying the return of baseball, questionable uniforms and all. Now get out there and soak up some rays (and maybe some questionable concession stand food) while you cheer on your favorite team!
