Published: 11/28/2022

By: Staff Writer

Let’s play ball! The Valley in March is synonymous with Major League Baseball spring training, and Peoria residents and visitors have a ticket to all the action on the diamond — and more.

Spring Training

The Peoria Sports Complex is the pre-season home for the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres. Cactus League games typically start in late February and run through late March.

The stadium’s Autograph Alley (on the right-field concourse) gives fans the perfect opportunity to seek out a signed ball or another memento from their favorite player. Plus, during spring training, the teams’ full-sized practice fields open daily at 9 a.m. (free admission) to invite fans to watch morning workouts up close. And don’t miss the Pavilion, a reservable event space behind left field that’s perfect for groups to watch a game and enjoy full-service catering and a bar.

Kid-Friendly Spaces

On the third-base concourse, you’ll find the Cove, which includes a splash pad and a ship-themed playground as well as a mini ballfield for the littlest baseball fans.

Year-Round Programming

After spring training, both the Mariners and the Padres use the Peoria Sports Complex for player development and injury rehab. Minor-league practices and games are held here throughout the year. That includes Extended Spring Training, Arizona Rookie League in the summer, followed by Fall Instructional League, Arizona Fall League and winter camps.

Corporate Events, Weddings and More

Whether you’re gathering a crew for a game or another purpose, the Peoria Sports Complex can host group events of various sizes at its different venues. In addition to the stadium concourse and parking lots, you’ll find the Colonnade, a 3,300-square-foot event space that can accommodate up to 200 in an air-conditioned environment with full-service catering, bar and patio. Guests also can host smaller, more casual events at the Cove, a partially shaded, kid-friendly space inside the ballpark.

In addition, the complex’s Stadium Field is available to rent for hosting events like concerts, festivals, expos and other functions. The facility is not available to rent during Spring Training.