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2008 Spring Training
Spring Training 2008 Photos
Our annual Spring Training trip is complete! This year, we decided to attend Spring Training slightly
earlier than previous years. We were not disappointed. We were able to see 4 games and attend practice several times.
It was great to see Kosuke Fukudome in Cubbie Blue. Though he looked like he was struggling in the first few games,
he started to find his swing after getting several hits and a home run on March 4th (his first home run with the Cubs).
He also had the most impressive play we saw while we were there. After a ball was hit to the fence, he made a spectactular catch, bounced off
the fence, and nearly doubled off the runner who was on first by throwing a laser strike to first base. Though he didn't throw the guy out, it was
enough to get a standing ovation from the crowd and it even impressed his teammates who were smiling and jumping around.
It was also fun to get autographs. We were able to get DeRosa, Soto, Fontenot, Hill, Marshall, Lilly, Marquis, Samardzija,
Patterson, Colvin, Marmol, Fukudome, Lee, and several others. The best autographs were from Fukudome, who signed a black baseball
for us, and Derrek Lee, who signed our 2005 All-Star Jersey.
It was a little disappointing to once again get stiffed by Soriano. Apparently, he didn't want to sign a black baseball, but
signed everything around us. No worries! We'll get him some day just like we'll get Zambrano some day!
Take a look at some of our Spring Training photos at the CBB Photo Album.
Spring Training Information
The Cubs spend their spring training at Hohokam Park ("Ho-Ho-COM") in Arizona outside of Mesa. Home to the Cubs
since 1997, HoHokam was designed by HOK Sport of Kansas City, MO. The stadium is located at 1235 N. Center St.
in Mesa, Arizona.
Cubs Spring
Training tickets often sell out early, but good seats can always be found through
our ticket partners.
If you can't get tickets to the game you want in Mesa, you can always try one of the many facilities in the surrounding
areas. Numerous teams play in Peoria, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Surprise.
At spring training, fans get a closer look at team and coaches. Spring Training is also the best chance to get
autographs from your favorite current and past players and coaches.
There are numerous ways to get autographs. To get your favorite player, you just need a little luck. Whether its
waiting for them by the dugout before the game or waiting for them as they leave the park, fans have a very good
chance at getting most players to sign.
Many fans also wait near the player's entrance. Sometimes the players will stop to sign autographs as they
leave the park.
If Ron Santo is your favorite, it is easy to get an autograph or just say "hi", as the press booth is only about
six feet above the upper seating section. Usually when WGN radio is broadcasting, there is a short line down
the steps waiting for Santo to sign.
If you are just visiting to have a good time, Hohokam is the place to be. The energy is high and the sun is hot.
You can even sit beyond the outfield on the grass for about $7 a game, but make sure you get there early to pick
a good spot!
Take a look at more pictures from 2008 Spring Training below or visit
the CBB Photo Album.
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