Indian River County Watchdog reporter Nick Slater recommends a day at the ballpark. Whether experiencing the early-season excitement of spring training or the minor-league dog days of summer, baseball brings fans, family and friends together like few other activities.

While the closest big league club — the Miami Marlins — plays nearly three hours away, Port St. Lucie hosts the New York Mets‘ spring training and the minor league St. Lucie Mets of the Florida State League at Clover Park. There is more than enough local ball to get your fix.

Q: What is your favorite spot?

Section 109 at Clover Park, clutching a hot dog smothered in mustard (no ketchup). Throughout most of the year, it’s hot here on the Treasure Coast, but what I love about Clover Park is the canopy keeping the sun’s rays away. Section 109 is positioned just to the right field side of home plate, allowing a full view of the field, but slightly off-center, so the break of the pitches is noticeable. And if a pull-hitting lefty is up and he turns on one, it’s easier to see where he connects.

Q: What would someone expect to see there?

This year’s spring training was full of fireworks. First baseman Pete Alonso was back; there was Francisco Lindor, maybe the best shortstop in baseball; and center fielder Jose Siri brought speed, power and elite defense. And Francisco Alvarez was my pick to have a breakout season.

Those players alone would make the Mets a lock for the playoffs, but Mets President David Stearns signed the best player in baseball, Juan Soto. He made spring training must-see baseball and lots of fun.

But don’t sleep on the Single-A Mets, either. St. Lucie often is the first stop for players entering professional ball, and they all are hungry. There is a grittiness needed to play here during the summer not seen in milder climates. It’s all about hustle in Port St. Lucie, making games electric. The $57 million in stadium upgrades completed in the last few years also enhance the atmosphere, giving fans an all-around great experience.

Q: What do you do there?

Personally, I get all my food and drinks first, and then hunker down for the game, only rising for bathroom breaks and the seventh-inning stretch. Clover Park has a few unique food options if hot dogs (again no ketchup) aren’t on the menu. Personally, I recommend the taco in a helmet, arepas or the New York deli-style subs.

Q: What is the cost?

Depends on the total of tickets and concessions, but I typically try to keep the cost of my baseball outing under $50. Baseball games can get expensive quickly, especially with souvenirs, so I look for sales if I need a new hat.

Nick Slater is TCPalm’s Indian River County Watchdog reporter. You can reach him at Nick.Slater@tcpalm.com and 224-830-2875.