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100 Years of Spring Training in Sarasota County
As Sarasota County commemorates the centennial of its spring training baseball tradition, it's a moment to reflect on a century rich in sports history, community spirit, and the timeless allure of America's favorite pastime. Since its inception, spring training in Sarasota County has transcended preparation for the forthcoming season and evolved into a cherished annual festivity uniting athletes, fans, and families from near and far.
Sarasota's sporting legacy is deeply entwined with Calvin and Martha Payne, winter residents from Pennsylvania who gifted a 60-acre parcel of land to the City of Sarasota in 1923, with the condition that it remains a perpetual park. They offered space for a baseball diamond if a major league team committed to holding their spring training in the town. Sarasota's leaders seized this opportunity, recognizing Florida's allure for spring baseball due to its favorable climate. Thus, Payne Park emerged, hosting iconic teams like the New York Giants, the Boston Red Sox, and the Los Angeles Dodgers before making way for the legendary Chicago White Sox, which marked a 37-season tenure.
Transitioning into the 1980s, the need for a modern stadium became evident to accommodate growing crowds and team requirements. Ed Smith, president of the Sarasota Sports Committee, spearheaded efforts for a new ballpark, resulting in the unveiling of Ed Smith Stadium in 1989. A year later, Payne Park bid farewell to baseball after 65 years of service. The Cincinnati Reds graced Ed Smith Stadium from 1998 to 2008, succeeded by the Baltimore Orioles in 2010, solidifying the ballpark as "Birdland South," a vibrant hub for spring training festivities.
Historic information provided by the Sarasota County History Center.
Beyond the Book
Spring is in the air. In Florida, it is filled with the smell of crackerjacks and the cracking of a bat - it's officially the kickoff of baseball spring training!
Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources has put together an exciting list of recommended books that delve into the rich history of baseball in Sarasota and beyond. Furthermore, to enhance the century-old tradition, a captivating traveling historical exhibit featuring photos and intriguing historical facts will be showcased at the Fruitville Library starting in mid-March.
Join us in this literary adventure and swing for the fences!
No Grass Stains, No Glory:
Spring Training in Sarasota
An exhibit developed by the Sarasota County History Center.
Sarasota County has a rich and vibrant history of involvement with America’s favorite pastime—baseball. Let’s take a walk down memory lane and explore the history of the local facilities that have hosted Major League Baseball teams for spring training since 1924.
Coming in late March 2024 to Fruitville Library!
100 Apex Road, Sarasota
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100 Years of Spring Training
Updated on 02/22/2024 10:54 AM
photos courtesy of Sarasota County Historical Resources
Suggested Reading List
Browse this suggested Baseball-themed reading list, featuring titles for youth, teens and adults.
Big League Reader
Readers can go "Beyond the Book" by participating in Sarasota's Big League Reader Challenge. which offers kids (ages 6-18) a chance to win Orioles' Spring Training tickets to the game on Sunday, March 10 at Ed Smith Stadium.
Beyond the Book: Spring Training episode
In this episode of "Beyond the Book" we explore "She Loved Baseball: The Effa Manley Story" by Audrey Vernick. Effa's remarkable journey from Yankee Stadium spectator to owner of the Newark Eagles is an inspirational story of resilience.