Where Do Dodgers Play Spring Training?
The Los Angeles Dodgers, one of the most iconic teams in Major League Baseball, have a long history of playing their spring training in various locations across the United States. The team’s decision to relocate to Los Angeles in 1958 marked a significant turning point in their franchise’s history, and their spring training locations have evolved over the years to accommodate their growing roster and fan base.
Early Years: Dodger Stadium and Chavez Ravine
The Dodgers’ early spring training locations were primarily in the San Fernando Valley, where they played at Dodger Stadium from 1958 to 1998. The stadium, which was built in 1962, was a state-of-the-art facility that hosted the team for over 40 years. However, the team’s attendance and revenue began to decline in the 1990s, leading to a decision to relocate to a new spring training facility.
Chavez Ravine: The Birthplace of the Dodgers
In 1998, the Dodgers relocated to Chavez Ravine, a 1,200-acre complex located in the San Fernando Valley. The complex, which was previously home to the Los Angeles Angels, was renovated and expanded to accommodate the team’s growing roster. The complex features a state-of-the-art training facility, a stadium, and a variety of amenities, including a hotel, restaurants, and a medical center.
Chavez Ravine Stadium
The stadium, which was built in 1999, is a 7,000-seat facility that features a unique design with a retractable roof and a natural grass playing surface. The stadium is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including a video scoreboard, a sound system, and a medical center.
Other Spring Training Locations
While Chavez Ravine remains the Dodgers’ primary spring training location, the team has also played at other facilities in the past. Some notable examples include:
- Anaheim Stadium (1998-1999): The Dodgers played their final spring training games at Anaheim Stadium, which was the home of the Anaheim Angels.
- Dodger Stadium (1999-2016): The Dodgers played their spring training games at Dodger Stadium for 17 years, before relocating to Chavez Ravine.
- Dodger Stadium (2017-present): The Dodgers have played their spring training games at Dodger Stadium for the past four years, with the exception of 2020, when the stadium was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Spring Training Schedule
The Dodgers’ spring training schedule typically runs from late February to late March, with games played at Chavez Ravine and other facilities. The schedule is subject to change, but typically includes a mix of exhibition games, intrasquad games, and regular-season games.
Intrasquad Games
Intrasquad games are a key part of the Dodgers’ spring training program, providing an opportunity for the team’s players to work together and prepare for the upcoming season. Intrasquad games are typically played on weekends, with the team divided into two squads: the Blue and the Red.
Exhibition Games
Exhibition games are a popular part of the Dodgers’ spring training program, featuring a mix of MLB players and minor league talent. These games are often played in front of large crowds and provide an opportunity for the team to test its roster and prepare for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ spring training locations have evolved over the years to accommodate their growing roster and fan base. From the early days at Dodger Stadium to the current location at Chavez Ravine, the team has always prioritized its spring training program as a key part of its success. Whether playing at Chavez Ravine or another facility, the Dodgers’ spring training program remains a beloved tradition in the world of baseball.
Table: Dodgers’ Spring Training Locations
| Year | Location | Stadium | Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1958 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1959 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1960 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1961 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1962 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1963 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1964 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1965 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1966 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1967 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1968 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1969 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1970 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1971 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1972 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1973 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1974 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1975 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1976 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1977 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1978 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1979 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1980 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1981 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1982 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1983 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1984 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1985 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1986 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1987 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1988 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1989 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1990 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1991 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1992 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1993 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1994 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1995 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1996 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1997 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 1998 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 1999 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2000 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2001 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2002 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2003 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2004 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2005 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2006 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2007 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2008 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2009 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2010 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2011 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2012 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2013 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2014 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2015 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2016 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2017 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2018 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2019 | Chavez Ravine | ||
| 2020 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 2021 | Dodger Stadium | ||
| 2022 | Dodger Stadium |
Intrasquad Games
- Blue: 2022
- Red: 2022
Exhibition Games
- 2022: 10 games
- 2021: 10 games
- 2020: 10 games
- 2019: 10 games
- 2018: 10 games
- 2017: 10 games
- 2016: 10 games
- 2015: 10 games
- 2014: 10 games
- 2013: 10 games
- 2012: 10 games
- 2011: 10 games
- 2010: 10 games