Getting ready for spring training

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (KSAZ) - The fields are getting prepped at ballparks across the valley, and as we hit the Cactus League spring training season, we get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to get the ballpark ready for this very busy time of the year.

The Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians practice at Goodyear Ballpark, where Courtney Griffin is reporting live on Sunday. The ballpark was voted last year the best place to see a spring training game in Arizona, according to the USA Today Reader's Choice poll. The facility may appear brand-new but it actually opened up in 2009.

The grounds crew has been prepping the field for spring training, and the concession stands feature items that are geared toward Reds and Indians fans -- including the Cleveland Polish Boy, Cincinnati Cheese Coneys, and what's called a "Chilly Cheese Dog Pizza", which is cheese dog pizza and a Philly cheese steak.

Spring Training starts on March 1 and crowds are expected every day through the end of March. Ballpark staff say it takes two months to get the ballpark ready for spring training. They believe the reason the facility was voted best ballpark in Arizona is because of the beautiful setting and the atmosphere there

Some important dates: this coming Saturday February 27th, you can celebrate the return of spring training with a free event taking place for the Chicago Cubs in Sloan Park in Mesa from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Diamondbacks will open on Tuesday March 1 with an exhibit game against U of A Wildcats at Salt River Fields, and the Cincinnati Reds will also take on the Cleveland Indians at 1:05 p.m. at the Goodyear Ballpark.

You can buy ticket for any spring training games online, Ticketmaster or Fry's marketplace.