Pitchers and Catchers Report!
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Three words that warm the hearts of baseball fans -- " pitchers and catchers " -- are being tossed around this wintry week as Spring Training camps in Florida and Arizona open their gates for early arrivals. Pitchers and catchers report some two weeks ahead of their team mates to loosen up their throwing arms, kindling a reflex reaction among the game's faithful that spring is on the way.
Last year's spring training saw many major league stars leaving their teams for the World Baseball Classic. The 16-team tournament gave the sport a true world champion. Baseball fans around the globe had long been clamoring for an authentic world champion, and last year Japan put the crowning touch on the 17-day tournament, clinching the title with a 10-6 win over Cuba.
“It’s an opportunity to try and expand the game globally,” said Yankees captain Derek Jeter, who plays for the United States. “I think it’s great for the game.”
This year, after 45 days of spring training, the season starts April 1 when the Mets visit the St. Louis Cardinals, who plan to have former stars Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, Keith Hernandez and Bruce Sutter on hand to watch the championship flag get raised.
