As the smell of fresh-cut grass and the crack of bats signal the return of baseball, Surprise, Arizona, is abuzz with fans eagerly awaiting the start of Spring Training. The reigning World Series champs, the Texas Rangers, are set to host the Kansas City Royals today at Surprise Stadium, with the first pitch scheduled for 1:05 p.m., according to an announcement on the City of Surprise website.
Fanatics should note the stadium goes cashless, so leave those bills at home, folks. Entry gates will swing open 90 minutes before the game starts, allowing fans plenty of time to settle in and soak up the arena's electric atmosphere. For those driving, parking won't cost a dime, although be prepared for a partial closure of Bullard Avenue, steering clear of potential congestion.
Getting into the game will be a breeze if you're tech-savvy. As the stadium outlines, simply pull up your mobile ticket via MLB Ballpark and scan in at the gates. Fans are savvy enough to remember to download and save their tickets to MLB Ballpark before the day of the game, to avoid any digital hassles at the last minute.
If you're planning on bringing a bag, think small and transparent. Only clear tote bags, small clutch purses not exceeding 5" x 8", and one-gallon plastic storage bags will make the cut, with an exception for medically necessary items, after a thorough inspection. Looking ahead, Surprise has a packed schedule with events like the Surprise Sundancers Charity Game and the Spring Training 5K & 1K Fun Run.
Family-focused promotions, such as the Kids Free Weekend and the Dental Depot Family Fun Pack, are set to spice up the opening week, alongside storied traditions like the tailgate party — now with a World Series twist. The Kids Run the Bases event, sponsored by Uptown Alley every Sunday, offers a chance for the young ones to stretch their legs and make Spring Training memories of their own.
Tickets for the entire 2024 Spring Training season are currently on sale. Fans can snag them online at SurpriseStadium.com, directly at the Surprise Stadium Box Office, or by hitting up the phone at 623.222.2222. Keep in mind, though, those service charges and pesky processing fees may apply for online and phone orders.
