When do Pitchers and Catchers report? Cactus League Dates explored with Spring Training fast approaching

MLB Spring Training is finally upon us. After a historic and epic 2022 season, the first moves leading up to the beginning of the 2023 season have finally begun to take form.

Spring Training is typically divided into two leagues: the Grapefruit League and the Cactus League. The two nicknames are named for Florida and Arizona, respectively. As always, 15 Eastern teams will be based in the former this spring, while 15 Western teams will report to the latter location.

The first glimpses of the preseason are set to begin this week. Pitchers and catchers are set to report this Monday, Feb. 13, to the training facilities of their respective teams.

"Pitcher and Catchers Report Today" - Writing for the Texas Rangers

The pitchers and catchers will be joined by their positional counterparts on Feb. 16. A team can have up to 60 players report for Spring Training, although the roster must be trimmed to 26 players when it comes time to start the regular season.

Last year's World Series champs, the Houston Astros, are reporting to their spring facility in Palm Beach, Florida, this week. Like all other teams, they will spend the next few weeks completing training and drills in an attempt to separate the hopefuls from the starters.

Preseason games will begin on Feb. 25. Some notable matchups that are set to take place include the New York Yankees up against the Philadelphia Phillies, as well as the Chicago Cubs taking on the San Francisco Giants.

"Today is the first day in 2023 that our crew is down in Florida for Mets spring training. Hello, Port St. Lucie" - SNY

The preseason gives teams a great chance to assess their prospects by virtue of their increased roster sizes. It also gives the chance for minor leaguers to put their best foot forward in hopes of gaining an ever-coveted starting spot.

The MLB pre-season leagues will showcase matches until March 29. The 2023 MLB season is set to begin on March 30, with the majority of teams playing their first regular-season matches on that day.

World Baseball Classic will make for a unique Spring Training

With the World Baseball Classic set to take place between March 8-21, several MLB teams have already given clearance for their stars to join the tournament. This is also important for players trying to make the team as it is likely that they might get a little more room in the limelight this spring.