Pointing the Way




Here's one of those relatively small details that makes Bright House Field, the Phillies' spring training home, so special. The marker in the picnic area beyond left field, shows the distance from Clearwater to where the Phils play and where their farm clubs are based.

Remarkably similar distances, as the Phillies are one of the teams who've moved most of their minor league affiliates close to where their big leaguers play.

And, with all the snow we've had the last month and a half up north, it's just nice to have an excuse to use a photo with a palm tree or two. Enjoy it as baseball starts to emerge from its off-season and begins to gear up toward opening day.

Pitchers and catchers are reporting to camps in Florida and Arizona. The first exhibition games are less than two weeks away. Are you ready? As I look at a backyard buried in snow -- you bet I am!

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