Everything to know about Twins Spring Training in '24
This story was excerpted from Do-Hyoung Park’s Twins Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.
Whether you’re a snowbird who spends parts of every winter down in Florida or a fan who follows the Twins from afar as they get ready for the regular season, get ready -- because Spring Training is almost here for you.
This week, the Twins are slated to officially kick off their first baseball action since they capped an AL Central title with their first playoff series victory since 2002 -- and after a long, mostly silent offseason, the front office has also kicked into gear with a handful of moves to mostly fill out the roster (though the work might not be done).
Here’s everything you need to know about the Twins’ buildup into their 2024 campaign.
When is the first workout for pitchers and catchers?
Pitchers and catchers will have their first organized workout on Tuesday, Feb. 14.
What is the date of the first full-squad workout?
The first full-squad workout will be on Sunday, Feb. 18, though many position players arrive early and a handful of live batting practice showdowns in the stadium tend to begin in advance of that first workout date.
Where is the team’s facility?
For the 34th consecutive season, the Twins will call Fort Myers, Fla., home for Spring Training. Hammond Stadium is the centerpiece of what’s now called the Lee Health Sports Complex, which is also home to the Twins’ Minor League academy.
Can fans attend workouts?
Yes. Fans are welcome to roam the complex and watch up close at the batting cages and at the back fields, where Minor League and Major League players often do drills. The Twins sometimes open up a small chunk of the stadium above the third-base line for fans to observe non-game day workouts.
Who are some new faces fans should know?
The Twins were idle for much of the offseason, but a recent flurry has been headlined by the addition of veteran Carlos Santana to the first base/DH mix. The trade of Jorge Polanco to the Mariners brought in starter Anthony DeSclafani and reliever Justin Topa, who joins fellow reinforcements Jay Jackson and Josh Staumont in a deep bullpen.
Who are some of the top prospects invited to Major League camp?
The team has not yet released a full list of non-roster invitees. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see No. 10 overall prospect Walker Jenkins in big league camp since the Twins like to get a closer look at their most recent first-round Draft pick. Fellow top-50 prospects Brooks Lee and Emmanuel Rodríguez should feature prominently in camp, as should Austin Martin and right-handers David Festa, Simeon Woods Richardson and Matt Canterino.
When is the team’s first Grapefruit League game?
The Twins open their spring schedule with an exhibition against the University of Minnesota on Feb. 23, when they will honor longtime Golden Gophers head coach John Anderson, who has announced his upcoming retirement. The Grapefruit League schedule kicks off on Feb. 24 against the Pirates.
What are a few other notable spring games?
The Twins will host the Yankees on Saturday, March 9, just ahead of “Minnesota Day” at Hammond Stadium -- known for tailgating, Twins alumni often roaming the parking lot and more -- on Sunday, March 10, in a game against the Nationals. The three “Chairman’s Cup” crosstown matchups against the Red Sox at Hammond Stadium are March 1, 6 and 18.
What is Spring Breakout and when is the game?
An exciting new league initiative this season meant to highlight the sport’s future stars, Spring Breakout is a showcase game between teams composed of organizations’ best prospects playing alongside each other.
For the Twins, this will take place at Hammond Stadium on March 16 as part of a doubleheader against the Rays. The day game will feature the MLB teams; the night game will feature the prospect teams.
Will the team’s games be televised?
The Twins have not yet made any official statements as to the resolution of their television contract situation, so stay tuned for more on this.
When is the team’s last game in Florida?
The Twins wrap up Grapefruit League action on Tuesday, March 26, against the Braves.
Will there be any additional exhibitions before the regular season?
No. The Twins will fly directly to Kansas City for a workout day ahead of Opening Day.
What are the details for Opening Day?
The Twins’ AL Central title defense begins on March 28, with a 3:10 p.m. CT matchup against the Royals at Kauffman Stadium behind Opening Day starter Pablo López. Minnesota's home opener will be on April 4 against the Guardians.