Spring Training in Mesa AZ: 2026 Schedule & Guide

If you're a baseball fan living in or visiting Arizona, Mesa is where the action happens. This East Valley city isn't just another stop on the Cactus League circuit, it's the only city in the Phoenix metro area that hosts two Major League teams for Spring Training. That's right: double the stadiums, double the games, and double the reasons to grab your glove and head to the ballpark.

Whether you're a die-hard Cubs fan who bleeds Cubbie blue or an A's supporter ready to rally behind the green and gold, Mesa delivers a world-class Spring Training experience. Let's break down what makes Mesa Arizona's baseball capital, what's on the 2026 schedule, and how to make the most of your visit.

Why Mesa Is a Baseball Mecca

Mesa has earned its reputation as a premier Spring Training destination for one simple reason: it takes baseball seriously. The city invested heavily in two top-tier facilities, both designed to give fans an unforgettable experience while providing MLB teams with everything they need to prepare for the regular season.

Sloan Park, home of the Chicago Cubs, is the crown jewel of Cactus League stadiums. Opened in 2014, it's the largest Spring Training facility in the country, with a seating capacity of 15,000. The park was intentionally designed to mirror the iconic Wrigley Field in Chicago, complete with brick facades, ivy-covered outfield walls, and even a "Wrigleyville West" entertainment district right outside the gates. Walking into Sloan Park feels like stepping into a piece of Chicago transplanted to the Arizona desert.

Hohokam Stadium, on the other hand, brings a different vibe. This ballpark has been the spring home of the Oakland Athletics since 2015, and it's known for its party decks, grass berm seating, and panoramic views of the Superstition Mountains. The atmosphere is relaxed, family-friendly, and quintessentially Arizona. Hohokam Stadium seats about 10,000 fans and offers a more intimate experience compared to its larger neighbor across town.

2026 Spring Training Schedule Highlights

Spring Training games typically run from late February through the end of March. Here's what Mesa has lined up for 2026:

Sloan Park - Chicago Cubs Schedule

Friday, February 21: Chicago White Sox vs. Chicago Cubs (Home Opener)
The crosstown rivalry kicks off the Sloan Park season. Expect a packed house and plenty of Windy City energy.

Sunday, February 23: Seattle Mariners vs. Chicago Cubs
A great matchup to catch early in the spring season as both teams fine-tune their rosters.

Hohokam Stadium - Oakland Athletics Schedule

Saturday, February 22: Texas Rangers vs. Oakland Athletics (Home Opener)
The A's welcome the Rangers to Hohokam Stadium in what should be a competitive early-season showdown.

Monday, February 24: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Oakland Athletics
A rare chance to see the home-state D-backs face the A's in Mesa. Local fans love this matchup.

These are just highlights. Both stadiums host games almost daily throughout March, featuring matchups against teams like the Mariners, Dodgers, Giants, Padres, Reds, Brewers, and more. For the full 2026 Cactus League schedule and ticket information, visit cactusleague.com.

Planning Your Mesa Spring Training Experience

Getting Tickets

Tickets for Spring Training games typically go on sale in late 2025 or early January 2026. Pricing is affordable compared to regular-season games, expect to pay anywhere from $15 for lawn seating to $50+ for premium seats. Both Sloan Park and Hohokam Stadium offer group packages, which are perfect for families, corporate outings, or reunions with out-of-town friends.

Pro tip: Weekday games are usually less crowded than weekend matchups, making them ideal if you want a more relaxed experience or easier access to autographs.

What to Bring

Arizona in late February and March can be unpredictable. Mornings might start cool (50s), but by afternoon, you're often in the mid-70s or low 80s. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If you're sitting in the outfield berm or lawn areas, a blanket or portable chair can make things more comfortable.

Both stadiums allow you to bring in your own snacks and sealed water bottles, which is a nice perk for families looking to save a few bucks.

Beyond the Ballpark

Mesa offers plenty to do before or after the game. The downtown Mesa area has seen a renaissance in recent years, with local breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants popping up along Main Street. If you're visiting with kids, the Arizona Museum of Natural History and i.d.e.a. Museum are both nearby and worth a stop.

And of course, Mesa's location makes it easy to explore the rest of the Valley. Scottsdale, Tempe, and Phoenix are all within a 20-30 minute drive.

Living the Spring Training Lifestyle Year-Round

Here's the thing about Mesa: it's not just a great place to visit for Spring Training, it's a phenomenal place to live. The city has grown into one of the most family-friendly communities in Arizona, offering excellent schools, affordable housing compared to nearby Scottsdale, and a strong sense of community.

If you've ever thought, "I could get used to this," while sitting in the Sloan Park bleachers sipping a cold drink in February, you're not alone. Plenty of Spring Training visitors have turned into full-time Mesa residents.

Mesa's real estate market offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a move-in-ready home near the stadiums, a larger property in one of Mesa's master-planned communities, or a condo with resort-style amenities, the options are diverse and accessible.

Why Mesa Real Estate Makes Sense in 2026

Mesa is one of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona, and for good reason. The city has invested heavily in infrastructure, schools, parks, and public amenities. Add in the year-round sunshine, proximity to Spring Training baseball, and easy access to hiking, lakes, and outdoor recreation, and you've got a winning combination.

The real estate market in Mesa remains competitive but more approachable than neighboring markets like Scottsdale or North Phoenix. Buyers are drawn to Mesa for its value, strong community feel, and quality of life.

If you're considering making a move, whether you're relocating to Arizona or moving within the Valley, Mesa deserves a serious look. And if you're a Cubs or A's fan? Well, having your spring home games in your backyard is just a bonus.

Ready to Play Ball in the Mesa Real Estate Market?

At Clearly Sold, we help buyers and sellers navigate the Mesa market with transparency, technology, and a flat-fee approach that saves you thousands. Whether you're ready to "List with a Twist" or you're searching for your next home near Sloan Park, we've got the tools and local expertise to make it happen.

Contact Andrew Texidor, Realtor and Founder
Clearly Sold brokered by HomeSmart
📞 Phone: 623-400-5957
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: clearlysold.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where do the Chicago Cubs play Spring Training?
The Chicago Cubs play their Spring Training games at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona. Sloan Park is the largest Spring Training facility in the Cactus League and features a design inspired by Wrigley Field.

Who plays at Hohokam Stadium?
The Oakland Athletics call Hohokam Stadium their spring home. The stadium offers a family-friendly atmosphere with party decks, lawn seating, and beautiful mountain views.

How many Spring Training stadiums are in Mesa?
Mesa is home to two Spring Training stadiums: Sloan Park (Chicago Cubs) and Hohokam Stadium (Oakland Athletics). This makes Mesa the only city in the Phoenix metro area to host two MLB teams during Spring Training.

When does Spring Training start in 2026?
Spring Training games in Mesa begin in late February 2026, with home openers scheduled for February 21 (Cubs at Sloan Park) and February 22 (Athletics at Hohokam Stadium).

Can I buy tickets for both stadiums in one place?
While both stadiums are in Mesa, tickets are sold separately through each team's official website or through the Cactus League website at cactusleague.com.

What's the best way to get to the stadiums?
Both Sloan Park and Hohokam Stadium are easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also popular options, especially on busy game days.

Final Thoughts

Mesa, Arizona, isn't just a stop on the Cactus League tour: it's the heartbeat of Spring Training in the Valley. With two world-class stadiums, a welcoming community, and a lifestyle that blends baseball tradition with year-round sunshine, Mesa offers something special for fans and residents alike.

Whether you're catching the Cubs at Sloan Park, cheering on the A's at Hohokam Stadium, or considering making Mesa your home base, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year. Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience baseball the way it was meant to be enjoyed: under blue skies, with a cold drink in hand, and surrounded by fans who love the game as much as you do.

Andrew Texidor, founder of Rewarding Heroes and Clearly Sold brokered by HomeSmart, is a certified AI agent helping Mesa buyers and sellers win in today's market.