Tag: Scottsdale spring training

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From Backyard Game to Pro League: Big League Wiffle Ball Comes to Scottsdale

What started as a simple backyard game during the COVID pandemic has grown into America’s first professional Wiffle Ball league.

On this episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Logan Rose, founder of Big League Wiffle Ball (BLW), to talk about how a group of friends playing in their backyard built a national sports league with franchise teams, major tournaments, and even a World Series.

And now, some of the biggest moments of the season are happening right here in Scottsdale.

How Big League Wiffle Ball Began

Like many ideas born during the pandemic, BLW started with a simple goal: find something fun to do.

Back in 2020, Logan, his brother, and a few friends began playing Wiffle Ball in their backyard. What started as casual games quickly turned into something bigger as they began posting highlights and content on social media.

The nostalgic appeal of Wiffle Ball resonated instantly.

Fans loved watching competitive backyard games — and the audience grew quickly.

Soon, what began as a backyard league evolved into Big League Wiffle Ball, complete with structured teams, tournaments, and a growing national following.

America’s First Professional Wiffle Ball League

Today, BLW features 10 professional teams, with some of the best Wiffle Ball players in the country competing in tournaments across the United States.

The league includes:

  • City-based teams like the Arizona Saguaros and Dallas Pandas
  • Professional ownership groups
  • Paid players
  • Regional tournaments in cities like Scottsdale, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas

The league’s popularity has exploded thanks to social media, where fans watch highlights, trick pitches, and incredible home runs from the backyard-style field that started it all.

And the growth continues.

BLW is preparing to stream games on ESPN and ESPN+, bringing professional Wiffle Ball to an even larger audience.

Scottsdale’s Role in the League

For Logan, Scottsdale is more than just another tournament stop — it’s home.

Raised in Scottsdale, he has always envisioned the city playing a major role in the league’s future.

BLW’s opening day took place at Scottsdale Stadium, and the league continues to host major events in the Valley.

The connection to baseball — especially during spring training season — makes Scottsdale the perfect place for Wiffle Ball fans to gather.

And the players love it.

Between the weather, the atmosphere, and the energy of spring training season, Scottsdale has quickly become one of the league’s favorite destinations.

Big League Wiffle Ball at Miracle League of Arizona

One of the most meaningful parts of this year’s postseason is its partnership with Miracle League of Arizona.

The events will take place at the Miracle League fields, helping raise money and awareness for athletes with special needs.

The partnership began after BLW hosted a fundraising tournament there last year.

Seeing Miracle League athletes take the field left a lasting impression on Logan and the league’s players — making it an easy decision to return and support the organization again.

What Fans Can Expect in Scottsdale

This March, BLW will host several major events at Miracle League of Arizona in Scottsdale.

Fans can expect:

Postseason Tournament
Six of the league’s top teams will compete in a single-elimination bracket.

All-Star Game
Featuring some of the best Wiffle Ball players in the world.

Home Run Derby
An exciting fan favorite — and open to public participants.

World Series Final
The championship matchup will take place after a spring training game between the Tigers and Rockies.

For sports fans looking for something fun and different during Scottsdale’s busiest season, it’s a unique event the whole family can enjoy.

The Future of Big League Wiffle Ball

Even with its rapid growth, Logan says the league is focused on building the right foundation.

For now, BLW will keep its 10-team format, allowing the best players in the sport to compete at the highest level.

But the vision is clear.

Professional Wiffle Ball is just getting started.

With national broadcasts, growing fan interest, and strong community partnerships, the sport is quickly becoming one of the most exciting emerging leagues in the country.

The Scottsdale Vibe

When asked about his favorite Scottsdale vibe, Logan didn’t hesitate.

Springtime in Scottsdale.

From spring training baseball to beautiful weather and major events across the city, it’s one of the most exciting times of year in the Valley.

And this year, Big League Wiffle Ball is part of the action.

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Cactus League Spring Training in Scottsdale: How Baseball Brings the Valley Together

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.