SEATTLE -- The surest clue that baseball season is near? How about the Mariners' fully loaded equipment truck pulling out of Safeco Field on Wednesday to begin the three-day haul to Peoria, Ariz., to set up camp.
"Truck Day" is an annual ritual for every Major League team, and the Mariners loaded their 18-wheeler on Wednesday morning, with the big rig hitting the road about noon PT for the start of the 1,400-mile trek.
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The truck will arrive at the Peoria Sports Complex on Friday evening, and the Mariners' clubhouse crew will begin unpacking and getting things set up on Saturday morning in preparation for the opening of Spring Training next week.
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In addition to the expected baseball gear, the Mariners transport office supplies, training and medical equipment, video equipment and personal items for players and staff members who will be taking up residence in Peoria for the next seven weeks.
About two dozen Mariners players are already in Peoria working out, but the official day for pitchers and catchers to report for their physicals is Feb. 19, prior to their first workout on Feb. 20.
Position players must report for physicals on Feb. 24, with the first full-squad workout set for Feb. 25 under the watch of new manager Scott Servais.
The Mariners will open their 33-game Cactus League schedule on March 2 at 12:10 p.m. PT against the Padres in the annual charity game at Peoria Stadium.