Swinging into Spring
There’s something about February’s cruel chill that sharpens the yearning for warmth, not just in the air, but in the spirit. For Reds fans, the answer lies not in daydreams but in tickets to Arizona, where Spring Training promises to thaw even the most frozen of Midwestern souls. In Goodyear, nestled beneath a sun-soaked sky, hope for the 2025 season takes its first swings, and the joys of baseball intertwine with the pleasures of travel.
Where, When, and How to Attend
Spring Training unfolds at Goodyear Ballpark, the Reds' Arizona home since 2010. The schedule begins February 22, 2025, with a split-squad game that mirrors the possibilities of the coming season: one group facing the Guardians at home, the other tackling the Brewers away. The games run through March 23, culminating in a final tune-up against the Guardians.
Tickets can be secured online through the Reds’ official website or Goodyear Ballpark’s box office. For a seamless experience, download the MLB Ballpark app, a modern convenience that ensures your passes, schedules, and maps are always in hand. Opt for premium home-plate box seats for a close view of the action, or embrace the relaxed camaraderie of lawn seating, where kids can roam, and the game feels like a backyard affair.
Reds Spring Training Gallery
Pitchers and Catchers Warm-Up
Photo Credit: Sports Yahoo - Pitchers and catchers huddle during early training.
Infield Drills
Photo Credit: Sports Yahoo - Spencer Steer fields ground balls.
Batting Practice
Photo Credit: Sports Yahoo - Jake Fraley takes swings in batting cages.
Bullpen Session
Photo Credit: Sports Yahoo - Rhett Lowder throwing during bullpen practice.
The Best Ways to Attend
Arrive early to catch batting practice. It’s the golden hour of Spring Training, where players’ laughter mixes with the crack of the bat and autographs are scribbled with genuine smiles. Take time to explore the ballpark’s amenities—from shaded seating to concession stands offering local flavors—and savor the relaxed pace that contrasts so beautifully with the intensity of Opening Day.
For those traveling as a family or with friends, consider a group ticket package or even season tickets if you plan to make multiple games. Off-days present opportunities to explore Arizona’s desert landscapes or visit other Spring Training ballparks in the Cactus League, many of which are within an hour’s drive.
Where to Stay
Goodyear offers accommodations that cater to every type of traveler. The Wigwam in nearby Litchfield Park blends Southwestern charm with resort luxury, featuring pools, golf courses, and fine dining—perfect for those who want their baseball getaway to feel like a true vacation. Budget-conscious fans can find comfortable options like the Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Goodyear, which balances affordability with proximity to the ballpark.
Vacation rentals through Airbnb or VRBO offer another enticing choice, particularly for families or groups. A house with a pool and a backyard grill might just become the second-best part of your trip after the games themselves.
Where to Eat
Food in Goodyear and its surrounding areas reflects a melting pot of flavors. Start your day at Haymaker for a hearty breakfast burrito or chicken-fried steak that will fuel hours of baseball and sun. For lunch, Flavors of Louisiana serves up gumbo and crawfish étouffée that transport you straight to the Bayou.
Dinner options shine as well. Saddle Mountain Brewing Company pairs craft beer with green chili mac and cheese, while Bella Luna Ristorante’s handmade pasta dishes provide an Italian flair. For a casual bite, Tacos Calafia delivers authentic street tacos that are as vibrant as the desert sunset.
A Glimpse at the 2025 Reds
Optimism hums through this year’s Spring Training, carried by key roster changes and leadership under Terry Francona. Fans will see new faces like Brady Singer in the rotation and Gavin Lux adding versatility to the infield. Familiar names—Hunter Greene, Elly De La Cruz, and Alexis Díaz—return with the promise of growth and grit.
Projected lineups hint at exciting combinations. Against right-handed pitchers, look for Matt McLain’s sharp eye leading off and De La Cruz’s explosive speed batting second. The rotation, anchored by Greene and Singer, offers tantalizing potential. Even the bullpen, often a question mark in past seasons, seems poised to hold its ground.
The beauty of Spring Training, though, lies not just in strategy or speculation but in the sheer joy of the game. It’s a time to embrace the pop of the mitt and the warm Arizona sun, to reconnect with the love of baseball and its timeless rhythms.
A Closing Thought
As February fades into March, Goodyear becomes more than a destination; it’s a haven. It’s where the past meets the future, where hope stirs for a season yet to be written, and where the cold reality of winter melts under the spell of baseball’s promise. So pack your bags, Reds fans. The desert is calling, and Spring Training awaits.