There’s one season that truly puts Scottsdale on the national map — Cactus League Spring Training.
On this episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Jeff Meyer, prominent Arizona business leader, longtime Scottsdale Charro, and former President of the Cactus League Baseball Association, to talk about what spring training really means to Scottsdale — beyond baseball.
From economic impact to civic pride, this conversation highlights why spring training is one of the most important traditions in our city.
What Is the Cactus League?
The Cactus League dates back to 1947, when the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) and New York Giants first held spring training games in Phoenix. What began with just two teams has grown into a powerhouse of 15 Major League Baseball teams playing across 10 Valley ballparks each year.
While March has long been synonymous with spring training, games now begin in late February, bringing baseball fans to Arizona even earlier.
And if you’ve ever tried booking a hotel or flight during this time — you know just how big it is.
Scottsdale’s Role in Spring Training
Scottsdale Stadium, home to the San Francisco Giants since 1984, plays a major role in the Cactus League story. But the city’s involvement dates back even further.
In the 1950s, local civic leaders helped establish Scottsdale as a spring training destination. The Scottsdale Charros, founded in 1961, became a driving force in supporting the Giants and enhancing the fan experience.
The result? A vibrant partnership between baseball, business, and community.
With Camelback Mountain as a backdrop and Old Town just steps away, Scottsdale Stadium delivers one of the most iconic spring training atmospheres in the country.
The Economic Impact of the Cactus League
Spring training isn’t just fun — it’s financially powerful.
According to an Arizona State University study referenced in the episode:
- $418 million generated for Arizona’s gross domestic product
- $710 million in total statewide economic impact
That includes hotel bookings, restaurants, retail, transportation, and tourism throughout the Valley.
For Scottsdale businesses, it’s one of the most important seasons of the year.
What It Takes to Make Spring Training Happen
Behind the scenes, planning never stops.
From stadium preparation to hospitality setups like the Charros Lodge, work begins almost immediately after the season ends. Each municipality collaborates closely with booster organizations and the Cactus League executive director, Bridget Binsbacher, who serves as the unified voice of the league.
With 15 teams, 10 facilities, and nearly 300 games in just over a month, coordination is key.
The Future of the Cactus League
Looking ahead, funding initiatives like Proposition 302 (which supports stadium improvements and tourism efforts) will be critical as facilities age and require renovations.
There is also early conversation around potential MLB expansion, which could bring even more growth opportunities to Arizona.
But at its core, the Cactus League remains about tradition — America’s pastime played under blue skies, with fans traveling from across the country to experience baseball in the desert.
A Visitor’s Guide to Spring Training in Scottsdale
If you’re new to the Cactus League:
- Games are listed at cactusleague.com
- The farthest stadiums are just over an hour apart
- It’s possible to catch multiple games in one day
- Pair baseball with golf, hiking, dining, or a day trip to Sedona or the Grand Canyon
Spring training isn’t just a sporting event — it’s a full Arizona experience.
Why Spring Training Defines Scottsdale
For Jeff Meyer, the Cactus League represents more than baseball. It reflects stewardship — preserving traditions that define Scottsdale’s identity while evolving for future generations.
From the Scottsdale Charros to civic leaders and business partners, the Cactus League is a model of collaboration that benefits the entire Valley.
And every February and March, when the stands fill and the crack of the bat echoes across Scottsdale Stadium, it’s clear:
Spring training isn’t just a season here — it’s part of who we are.