Baltimore Orioles Spring Training Guide

Today, the Baltimore Orioles open the new Ed Smith Stadium when they play the visiting Tampa Bay Rays.

If you are visiting from the Baltimore or Tampa area, welcome to Sarasota. Here is the fan’s guide to spring training in Sarasota.

Ed Smith Stadium

In their second year in Sarasota, the Orioles will open a new stadium today against the Rays. Ed Smith stadium renovations began after a long legal battle over Florida Sunshine Laws and many lawsuits that questioned the legality of the contract between the city, county and the Orioles.

Aside from the Florida-style exterior, the stadium includes, widened concourses, new elevators, new concession stands, new restrooms, an HD-scoreboard and an official Orioles team store.

 How Much are Tickets?

Tickets for Orioles’ games are divided into “Prime” and regular games. Prime games increase the standard price by $2. The prime games are the New York Yankees, (Mar. 7 and 22) Boston Red Sox (Mar. 5 an 27) and the Philadelphia Phillies (Mar. 11 and 19). 

Tickets are available online at the Baltimore Orioles website and at Ed Smith Stadium.

Players to Watch

The Orioles have a fast and talented outfield that includes Felix Pie, Adam Jones, Nick Markakis and Matt Angle. An all-star and veteran, second basemen Brian Roberts is a fan favorite.

The Orioles also made a splash when they brought in former all-stars Vladimir Guerrero (AL MVP in 2004) and former Chicago Cub, Derrek Lee. 

Where Should I Eat Before or After the Game?

Barely a month old, is already become one of the most popular eating establishments in Sarasota. The restaurant prides itself on its every-changing homemade brews along with its bar food done exceptionally well. It is only 1.5 miles from the Stadium.

Looking for a place to catch all of the other games? Head downtown to to grab a bit to eat and watch all the games.

If you are heading out to the islands go to the on Siesta Key. It is famous for its frozen daiquiris … and the fresh fish sandwich isn’t bad either. They also opened in new location in St. Armands Circle on Lido Key in mid-February.

In the mood for fine dinning? Head to Sarasota’s bayfront to . Eat inside or outside, but either way you’ll have a one-of-a-kind view of Sarasota Bay.

Other places to grab a bite: , , ,  and . 

Places to Grab a Drink?

Enjoy live music every night at the . The two-story bar is located in the heard on downtown Sarasota. Live music downstairs and pool tables and a DJ upstairs.

If you are looking for a place to sit back, relax and enjoy a cigar and a cold brew, check out in downtown Sarasota. It’s open floor plan allows you to sit inside the bar to watch one of the many big screen TVs or sit outside with the view of Main Street.

As you walk into , you’ll step over a TV in the ground. There are DJs on the weekend and a second story lounge for VIPs.

Other place to try: , , , , . 

I'm from out of town. What else should I see?

If you are looking for some place to take the family without spending a lot of money, check out on City Island. There, you get in free (with a small donation) and you get to see many wild birds including; pelicans, swans, ospreys, parrots and ducks that the organization is trying to help.

The is one of the area attractions that helps define Sarasota. Check out the circus museum, tour the grounds of the Ringling home or check out one of the many traveling exhibits that stop by this amazing facility.

Other places to check out include: , , and the Historic Spanish Pointe.

Time to hit the Beach

Sarasota is home to many beaches including the No. 2 ranked beach in the U.S., . Its cool, soft and white side is one-of-a-kind. Also located on Siesta Key is .

Close to downtown Sarasota and just across the John Ringling Bridge is . There, you can grab one of the thousands of sea shells that will be in the sand.

If you are looking for a little bit more seclusion on the beach, head out to Long Boat Key. There you won’t find many tourists, but you won’t find many parking spaces either.

What about nearby spring training sites?

The Orioles' closest spring neighbor is the Pittsburgh Pirates, who play their home games at Bradenton’s McKechnie Field. Other nearby Grapefruit League teams include the Phillies in Clearwater, the Yankees in Tampa, the Blue Jays in Dunedin, the Rays in Port Charlotte and the Red Sox and Twins in Fort Myers. 

How Far Away is the Stadium From ….

• Downtown – 1.7 miles
• Siesta Key –  5.3 miles
• Lido Key – 5.4 miles
• The Mall – 3.3 Miles
• – 3 miles
• Bradenton– 11 miles
• Longboat Key – 13.6 miles
• – 3.5 miles
• Tampa – 57.2 miles