Cactus League Spring Training, a seasonal rite in Greater Phoenix, roars to life in February with the iconic sounds of cracking bats, snapping mitts and happy fans. For baseball lovers, it doesn’t get much better than this: sunny weather, affordable tickets and unparalleled proximity to the best players in the game.

The 2013 Cactus League season features 15 major league teams and more than 260 games from Feb. 22 to March 30. There’s never an off day, and the longest “road trip” between stadiums is 45 minutes.

An added bonus for spring training fans this season: Phoenix plays host to Pool D of the World Baseball Classic. Teams from USA, Mexico, Italy and Canada will play at Chase Field and Salt River Fields at Talking Stick March 7-10. These international all-star squads also will play games against Cactus League teams on March 5-6; and the WBC Asia semifinalists will play the Giants, Padres, Cubs and Mariners on March 14-15.

Cactus League Spring Training participants:

Download the complete 2013 Cactus League Spring Training Schedule (.pdf)

Download Team & Ticket Information (.pdf)

You can use the Trip Planner tool to create, share and print a customized spring training itinerary. Also, check out these special offers and packages from local hotels and resorts, many of which bundle game tickets with discounted accommodations and activities.

10 stadiums play host to Cactus League baseball, and this Google Map will help you locate them:

View Cactus League Spring Training Facilities in a larger map

1. Camelback Ranch
2. Goodyear Ballpark
3. Hohokam Stadium
4. Maryvale Baseball Park
5. Peoria Sports Complex
6. Phoenix Municipal Stadium
7. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
8. Scottsdale Stadium
9. Surprise Stadium
10. Tempe Diablo Stadium