Jupiter (CBS12 News) — The Miami Marlins’ pitchers and catchers stepped onto the field Wednesday for their first spring training workout, greeted by a gleaming, fully upgraded facility in Jupiter. Even the Marlins sign sparkled under the Florida sun as players settled into their new surroundings.
The improvements are more than cosmetic. The clubhouse, training areas, and workout facilities now mirror what the team uses during the regular season, featuring upgraded locker rooms, state-of-the-art strength and conditioning equipment, and specialized spaces for recovery and performance. These enhancements are part of a $108million overhaul of Roger Dean Stadium, designed to give the team a first-class environment for development.
“This is just phase one of a project we believe will provide a first-class environment for our players to improve on and off the field,” Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said. “It took a lot of work since last spring, but seeing the facility now and watching our guys train here is incredibly exciting.”
The timing couldn’t be better for Miami’s pitching staff, which has consistently ranked among the league’s best in strikeouts. Ace Sandy Alcantara is aiming for a rebound season after a challenging year following Tommy John surgery, while a deep rotation includes young arms Yuri Perez, Max Meyer, and Braxton Garrett—also coming off Tommy John procedures. Adding to the mix is a proven veteran closer, former Tampa Bay Rays flamethrower Pete Fairbanks, bringing experience and velocity to the bullpen.
The Marlins’ hurlers are eager to put their offseason work to the test in their first spring training game against the New York Mets on Saturday, February 21, in Port St. Lucie. With a revamped facility and a motivated pitching staff, Miami is ready to make its mark this season.