Phillies Spring Training: 80 Years in Clearwater, Florida

The Philadelphia Phillies gear up for their 80th consecutive spring training in Clearwater, Florida, a tradition spanning eight decades.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:12am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a Phillies spring training game, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette.The Phillies' 80-year spring training tradition in Clearwater is a study in the geometric complexity and vibrant energy of America's pastime.Clearwater Today

The Philadelphia Phillies are preparing for their 80th consecutive spring training in Clearwater, Florida, a tradition that has spanned eight decades. The team is set to transform BayCare Ballpark into their temporary home for the next 44 days, bringing thousands of pieces of equipment and ensuring a seamless transition. Despite Clearwater not being the only city in Florida hosting major league spring training, the Phillies' loyal fan base and record-breaking spring attendance keep them coming back year after year.

Why it matters

The Phillies' long-standing presence in Clearwater is a testament to the enduring relationship between the team and the local community. Their spring training not only brings economic benefits to the city but also fosters a sense of community and shared excitement around the upcoming baseball season.

The details

The Phillies' spring training operation is a meticulously planned endeavor, with the team's clubhouse attendant, Tim Schmidt, emphasizing the months of preparation required to ensure a smooth transition. From the Phanatic's hot dog launcher to baseballs, no detail is overlooked. The Phillies are not just aiming for a successful spring training; they're eyeing the championship, with Schmidt believing they have the right chemistry to win the East and bring the title back to Philadelphia.

  • The Phillies have called Clearwater their spring training home for eight decades.
  • The team will be in Clearwater for the next 44 days.

The players

Robert Stretch

The media manager for the Clearwater Threshers, who expressed excitement about the Phillies' return to the city.

Bruce Rector

The mayor of Clearwater, who believes the loyalty of the baseball fans is what keeps the Phillies coming back to the city.

Tim Schmidt

The clubhouse attendant for the Philadelphia Phillies, who emphasized the meticulous planning required to ensure a seamless transition into spring training.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to have the Phillies back. They're an integral part of our community, and their presence brings a unique energy to our city.”

— Robert Stretch, Media manager for the Clearwater Threshers

“After the hurricanes last year, we needed our fans more than ever. And they delivered. They came back in droves, showing their support for the Phillies, Yankees, and Blue Jays. It was a record-breaking spring for us, and we're incredibly grateful for the support.”

— Bruce Rector, Mayor of Clearwater

“It takes months to prepare and load the truck. Once we arrive, it's a race against time to get everything in place. But the clubhouse is our top priority.”

— Tim Schmidt, Clubhouse attendant for the Philadelphia Phillies

What’s next

The Phillies will continue their spring training in Clearwater, Florida, as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season. The team is aiming to win the East Division and bring the championship title back to Philadelphia.

The takeaway

The Phillies' long-standing spring training tradition in Clearwater, Florida, is a testament to the enduring relationship between the team and the local community. Despite the presence of other major league teams in the Grapefruit League, the Phillies' loyal fan base and record-breaking spring attendance keep them coming back year after year, contributing to the city's economic and cultural vibrancy.