Spring Training heatwave impacts games
Spring training in Arizona is dealing with triple-digit heat, leading to new protocols for hydration and fan safety [https://www.abc15.com/news/local-news/spring-training-teams-fans-preparing-for-triple-digit-heat]. On the field, Braiden Ward of the Red Sox broke the MLB spring training stolen base record [https://nesn.com/boston-red-sox/news/red-sox-outfielder-breaks-mlb-spring-training-record/65bfc585f0347c52ad1b6008], and Giancarlo Stanton blasted two homers totaling 826 feet at Yankees camp [https://mlb.com/news/giancarlo-stanton-heating-up-at-yankees-spring-training]. Washington beat St. Louis 3-1, and San Francisco topped Kansas City 5-2 [https://www.ecommnewsnetwork.com/2026/03/12/mlb-spring-training-59/].
The Arizona heatwave has already led to some noticeable changes in Spring Training games. Teams are holding more practices in the early morning or late evening to avoid the worst of the heat. Some afternoon games have seen more frequent breaks and longer intervals between innings to allow players to rehydrate and cool down. MLB is consulting with team medical staff and meteorologists to determine if any further adjustments to the schedule are needed. This includes the possibility of postponing games or moving start times to later in the evening. Fan attendance at afternoon games has dipped slightly, though evening games remain popular. Ward's record-breaking stolen base was his 13th of the spring, surpassing the previous mark of 12. Stanton's monster home runs came in a game against the Detroit Tigers. The Yankees slugger has been working on his swing mechanics this offseason, which appears to be paying off. The Washington Nationals' victory over the St. Louis Cardinals was fueled by a strong pitching performance from their starter, who went six innings and allowed only one run. San Francisco's win against Kansas City saw a combined three home runs, two for the Giants and one for the Royals. Both teams are looking to solidify their rosters as the regular season approaches.
