Spring Training Online

It's time for version 3 of Tempe Diablo Stadium, as the entire facility is once again being renovated in time for Spring Training 2006.

The original Diablo Stadium was built in 1968, but it was expanded in 1993. Among the work being done this offseason, as supervised by the DLR Group: adding a new entry behind home plate; replacing the ballpark seating; improving the clubhouse and team office; expanding the dugouts; installing new ticket booths; upgrading the façade; and adding a party patio down the left-field line.

Also, the ballpark will also get new rows of prime seating between the dugouts with the backstop being moved forward towards home plate.

In addition, the Angels will be consolidating all spring-training operations in one place. Previously the major-league team trained in Tempe while the minor-league camp was in nearby Mesa. The additions of new practice fields and a new clubhouse will allow the minor-league camp to be moved to Tempe.

In exchange for the improvements (which will cost Tempe and the state $20 million) the Angels agreed to keep spring training at Tempe Diablo Stadium through Dec. 31, 2025.

Spring Training History

The Los Angeles Angels began play in the 1961 under the ownership of Gene Autry. The team's first spring-training home was Palm Springs, where their home was the Polo Grounds (later renamed Angels Stadium)

In 1966 the Angels partially shifted spring training in Holtville, Cal., and 10 days to two weeks at the four-diamond complex from 1966 through 1979 (splitting time with Palm Springs), before returning on a full-time basis to Palm Springs in 1980. The Angels then reverted back to a split schedule in 1982 and 1983, dividing spring headquarters between Casa Grande, Arizona, and Palm Springs.

In 1992 Angels spring training shifted fulltime to Tempe Diablo Stadium.