Fan’s Guide to the Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training

Here's Everything You Should Know About the Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training

Looking to find their groove in 2023 after a forgettable .383 winning percentage in 2022, the Pittsburgh Pirates will look to shore out their roster during Spring Training at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida. A visit to the historic park offers a relaxing day of Spring Training action and the chance to witness former Ray Ji-Man Choi carve out a role on his new squad, not to mention perennial star outfielder Andrew McCutchen!

If you are interested in watching the Pirates, also known as the Bucs (sounds like another local team!) compete in Spring Training, then keep reading for things to do in and around LECOM Park.

About LECOM Park 👀

Originally built in 1923, LECOM Park has undergone significant renovations over the past 30 years to provide visiting Bucs fans with modern amenities while maintaining the feeling of a classic ballpark.

For example, LECOM’s iconic Spanish mission-style façade was constructed during a significant facelift in the early 1990s, and lights were added as recently as 2008. As a result of these changes, there’s plenty to see and do around the ballpark.

Fun Fact 👇

LECOM Park was originally called McKechnie Field, in honor of Pittsburgh native, former Bradenton resident, and Hall of Fame manager Bill McKechnie, who led the Pirates to the 1925 World Series title before bringing the Cincinnati Reds to baseball’s pinnacle in 1940.

Directions 🔍

To get to LECOM Park from the North (Tampa and St. Petersburg), go over Skyway Bridge to Exit 5 (US19 South). Continue on 41 South (Bradenton/Sarasota). Make a right turn onto 17th Avenue West and continue to LECOM Park.

If you’re traveling from Sarasota, take Route 41 North to Cortez Road. Go straight onto Business 41 and turn right onto 17th Avenue West. LECOM Park is located at the intersection of 17th Avenue West and 9th Street West.

Traveling from I-75? Exit I-75 at S.R. 64 West (exit 220 if traveling south, exit 220B if traveling north). Proceed west on Route 64 to 9th Street West and turn left toward LECOM Park.

Fun Things to Do in Bradenton, Florida 📍

Looking for something to do before or after a Pirates Spring Training game? Although the area around LECOM Park has historically been industrial, that’s changing thanks to the creation of a new arts district. As a result, there’s plenty to do nearby and, as always, fun in the Florida sun is never far away.

Hit the Beach ☀️

Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Bradenton is close to quaint Holmes Beach and the pristine white sands of Cortez Beach. So remember to pack a swimsuit. This is the perfect way to end a good game day!

Holmes Beach
📍 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Cortez Beach
📍 698 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Grab a Bite 😋