Introduction to Traveling in the MLB
The Major League Baseball (MLB) is the professional baseball organization in the United States and consists of 30 teams that play in the American League (AL) and National League (NL). Every season, teams travel to away games in other cities and states, and MLB players have to make sure they get there on time and ready to play. In this article, we’ll discuss how MLB players travel to away games and what it takes for them to make the trip.
Travel Schedules for Away Games
MLB teams typically have a travel schedule that outlines when they will be leaving for away games and when they will be returning home. This schedule is usually set in advance and is based on the number of games the team is playing in each city. It also takes into account the team’s travel budget, which determines how much they can spend on transportation and lodging.
When teams are traveling, they typically leave on the day before the game and return the day after. For example, if the team is playing in Los Angeles on Monday, they will usually leave on Sunday and return on Tuesday. This gives them enough time to rest and get ready for the game.
Transportation to Away Games
The most common way for MLB players to travel to away games is by plane. Teams typically charter a plane for the entire team, including management, coaches, and players. This allows them to travel together and ensures that everyone arrives at the same time.
When traveling by plane, teams usually fly out of their home airports and arrive at the destination airport. This eliminates the need for multiple flights, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
Lodging for Away Games
When teams travel for away games, they typically stay in hotels near the ballpark. The team pays for the cost of the hotel rooms and meals, so the players don’t have to worry about those expenses. The hotels are usually chosen based on their proximity to the ballpark, as well as their amenities and cost.
Team Bonding During Travel
Traveling is also a great opportunity for teams to bond and get to know each other better. On the plane ride to away games, the players and coaches often watch movies, play cards, or just chat. This helps the team build chemistry and camaraderie, which can be important for success on the field.
Arrival at Away Games
When the team arrives at the away game, they typically head straight to the ballpark. At the ballpark, they will meet up with the coaches and trainers to get ready for the game. This includes stretching and warming up, as well as reviewing the game plan and making sure everyone is on the same page.
Game Time at Away Games
When it’s game time, the team will head out onto the field and start playing. During the game, the coaches and other members of the team will be in the dugout and the bullpen, providing support and guidance.
Post-Game at Away Games
After the game, the team will usually have a post-game meal and then head back to the hotel. At the hotel, the players will have some time to relax and recover from the game. They might watch TV, play video games, or just chat with each other.
Return Home from Away Games
The next day, the team will typically return home from the away game. This usually involves a plane ride back to their home airport. On the plane, the players will have some time to relax and reflect on the game.
Conclusion
Traveling to away games is an important part of the MLB experience. It allows teams to bond and build chemistry while also giving them the opportunity to play in different cities and states. Teams typically travel by plane and stay in hotels near the ballpark, and they always make sure to get there on time and ready to play.
Traveling to away games can be a fun and exciting experience for MLB players, and it’s an experience that they will never forget.