Spring Training begins for the Minnesota Twins

Reporter: Jolena Esperto Writer: Paul Dolan
Published: Updated:

Saturday was Opening Day for the Minnesota Twins’ Spring Training season at Hammond Stadium in Lee County.

The Twins hosted the exhibition against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Every baseball fan WINK News spoke with, regardless of fandom, said the game was a lot of fun and much needed after a hard year.

“I actually think it’s a little bit better. It gives people something to come out and enjoy themselves,” Atwoun Ackerley, a local baseball fan, said.

Pitcher and catcher warming up between innings. CREDIT: WINK News

At the start of the game, the Twins saluted first responders for their work and sacrifice during Hurricane Ian.

“After going through Ian there were some things we took for granted,” Brad Barry, another local baseball fan, said.

First responders recognized at the game. CREDIT: WINK News

Some came out for fun but others, like Alana Newville, came out to celebrate.

“Seeing everyone come together like it’s refreshing because like the hurricane was like so devastating for both of us. We stayed here and it was just it was chaos like looking at everything,” Newville said.

Tracie Valencia came all the way from Minnesota to watch her team play in Spring Training and prepare for the 2023 season.

This is something everybody can go and afford. And it’s just these are so much fun. I love coming to spring training. It’s an awesome experience,” Valencia said.

The Twins beat the Rays in the Spring Training opener 8 to 4. The Twins face the Phillies in Clearwater Florida, on Sunday at 1 p.m.

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