When Does MLB Spring Training Start?

By Sarah Miller · March 12, 2050

Major League Baseball spring training typically starts in mid-February, with pitchers and catchers reporting first, followed by full-squad workouts shortly after. The exact start dates vary slightly each year based on the season schedule.

What Is MLB Spring Training?

MLB Spring Training is an annual preseason event where Major League Baseball teams prepare for the upcoming regular season. Held primarily in Florida and Arizona, it features practices, intrasquad games, and exhibition matchups known as spring training games or Grapefruit League and Cactus League games.

Purpose of Spring Training

Allow players to condition and regain game readiness after the offseason
Evaluate new signings, prospects, and roster candidates
Test strategies and player combinations in live-game settings
Build team chemistry before Opening Day

When Does Spring Training Start?

The official start of MLB spring training varies slightly from year to year depending on the regular-season calendar. However, the standard timeline is:

Pitchers and catchers report: Mid-February (typically February 12–15)
Full squad workouts begin: A few days later (usually February 17–20)
First spring games: Late February (around February 22)

For the 2026 season, pitchers and catchers are expected to report around February 12–14, with full squads assembling by February 17–19.

Spring Training Locations: Cactus and Grapefruit Leagues

MLB teams conduct spring training in two primary regions across the United States:

Grapefruit League: Based in Florida, featuring 15 teams
Cactus League: Based in Arizona, featuring 15 teams

Both leagues offer warm climates ideal for early-season preparation and host exhibition games between teams.

Popular Spring Training Facilities

Team	Facility	Location	League
New York Yankees	George M. Steinbrenner Field	Tampa, FL	Grapefruit
Los Angeles Dodgers	Camelback Ranch	Glendale, AZ	Cactus
Boston Red Sox	Fenway South (JetBlue Park)	Fort Myers, FL	Grapefruit
Chicago Cubs	Sloan Park	Mesa, AZ	Cactus
New York Mets	Clover Stadium	Port St. Lucie, FL	Grapefruit

Table data source:1, 2

This table highlights key teams and their spring training homes, showing the geographic split between Florida and Arizona. Most facilities are designed to replicate major league ballpark dimensions, enhancing preparation quality.

Key Dates in the 2026 Spring Training Calendar

Event	Expected Date (2026)	Notes
Pitchers & Catchers Report	February 12–14	Initial physicals and light workouts
First Full Squad Workout	February 17–19	All players participate
First Spring Game	February 22	Exhibition game begins
Presidents' Day Games	March 17	High-profile matchups often scheduled
Final Spring Games	March 25–26	Wrap-up before Opening Day
Regular Season Start	March 27 or April 1	Depends on calendar alignment

Table data source:1, 2

Data shows a consistent three-week gap between pitcher arrival and first games, allowing adequate ramp-up time. The 2026 schedule is expected to mirror 2025’s structure, with Opening Day likely falling on March 27 or April 1.

How Teams Use Spring Training Strategically

Beyond physical conditioning, clubs leverage spring training for deeper organizational goals:

Roster Decisions: Evaluate competition for final bench, bullpen, and starting spots
Injury Management: Gradually reintegrate players recovering from offseason surgeries
Prospect Development: Invite top minor leaguers to camp (non-roster invitees)
Rule Experimentation: Test pace-of-play rules or position-player pitching

Frequently Asked Questions About MLB Spring Training

When do MLB pitchers and catchers report to spring training?

Pitchers and catchers typically report in mid-February, around February 12–15, depending on the year’s schedule. This marks the official beginning of spring training activities.

How long does MLB spring training last?

Spring training lasts about six weeks, starting in mid-February and ending just before Opening Day in late March or early April. Players have approximately 4–5 weeks of exhibition games.

Where is MLB spring training held?

MLB spring training is held in two main locations: Florida (Grapefruit League) and Arizona (Cactus League). All 30 teams train in one of these states due to favorable weather.

Can fans attend MLB spring training games?

Yes, fans can attend spring training games at all Cactus and Grapefruit League venues. Tickets are generally affordable and offer close access to players and coaches.

Are spring training games official MLB games?

No, spring training games are exhibition matches and do not count toward the regular-season standings. However, player performance can influence roster decisions.