Clearwater and Pinellas to Vote on Phillies Spring Training Facility Upgrades

Proposed lease extension would keep the team in the area until 2047.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:02am

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A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented, geometric shapes in bright colors that abstractly represent a baseball game or spring training scene.A modernist interpretation of the Phillies' longstanding spring training presence in Clearwater, capturing the energy and excitement of America's pastime.Clearwater Today

The city of Clearwater and Pinellas County officials are set to vote on a 'term sheet' that would approve renovations to the Philadelphia Phillies' spring training facility and extend the team's lease in the area until 2047.

Why it matters

The Phillies have trained in Clearwater since 1947, and the facility is a major economic driver for the region. Keeping the team in Pinellas County long-term is seen as crucial for maintaining the area's status as a premier spring training destination.

The details

The proposed term sheet would outline the details of a lease extension and facility upgrades, including the financial responsibilities of the various parties involved. If approved, the renovations would modernize the Phillies' training complex to keep it competitive with other spring training sites across Florida.

  • The Clearwater City Council and Pinellas County Commission are scheduled to vote on the term sheet on April 18, 2026.

The players

Philadelphia Phillies

A Major League Baseball team that has held spring training in Clearwater, Florida since 1947.

Clearwater, Florida

The city that has hosted the Phillies' spring training facility for decades and is considering approving renovations to the complex.

Pinellas County, Florida

The county that includes Clearwater and is also involved in the negotiations and approval process for the Phillies' spring training facility upgrades.

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What’s next

If the term sheet is approved by both the Clearwater City Council and Pinellas County Commission, the next step would be to finalize the details of the lease extension and renovation plans.

The takeaway

Keeping the Phillies' spring training facility in Clearwater is crucial for the local economy, and the proposed renovations and lease extension demonstrate the commitment of both the city and county to maintaining this longstanding partnership.