The Cubs' new Spring Training facility in Mesa, Ariz., "represents more than one-stop shopping for fans lusting for a look at the team's top prospects," as the new 142-acre complex "provides comfort and easier access for fans who no longer require separate trips" to watch MLBers and minor leaguers, according to Mark Gonzales of the CHICAGO TRIBUNE. Cubs GM/Spring Training Business Operations Justin Piper said that the new site "features a two-story training facility and a spacious 15,000-seat Cubs Park with 9,200 permanent seats, a wide outfield berm and party decks along the first- and third-base lines and in left field." There are "subtle touches to Cubs Park" that are more reminiscent of Wrigley Field than HoHoKam Stadium -- the team's previous Spring Training home -- as the structure of the light towers behind first and third base "resemble those at Wrigley." Fans also "will have the opportunity to pose with a replica of the Wrigley Field scoreboard on the first-base side of the concourse near the team's gift shop." A large parking lawn, "reserved for spring training season ticket-holders, is located near the practice facility and stadium." Meanwhile, Cubs players and staff "will have more resources than just two sets of 12-mound bullpens and a hitting tunnel that can accommodate 12 batters," as the football-shaped clubhouse includes 66 locker stalls. Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein and his staff "will have the luxury of observing players from a deck facing the main practice field" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 12/27).
