Photograph by Daniel Millay
For most sports fanatics, March means NCAA brackets and diaper dandies. But for a certain breed of St. Louis sports enthusiast, the month translates to another sport, one not involving Dickie V. Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Fla., is where minor leaguers pursue major-league dreams and Cardinals fans flock to get up close and personal with the pros. “It’s a lot more intimate experience because you get to meet the players one-on-one,” says Jessica Matherly, a 27-year-old Cards fan from St. Louis who happens to have family in the Jupiter area. According to Matherly and several other spring-training alums, here’s how to make a Florida outing as memorable as a trip to Busch—well, almost.
Getting in the Game
It’s tempting to buy a pricy package through the Cards, but we have a better idea: Arrive extra early at Roger Dean Stadium on game day, and get $15 berm seats. The best part? Besides being the cheapest seats in the house, they’re also the safest bet for scoring autographs near the right-field bullpen.
Scoring Autographs
That whole saying about the early bird getting the worm? It’s true for Redbirds, too. Arrive in early March and in the a.m. to watch players work out in the practice fields behind the game-day field. And before the first pitch, scope out a spot along the right-field line to catch players before and after the game. Don’t forget: Bring a camera, a Sharpie and a string to thread down items to players.
Family Fun
Most parents don’t see spring break in Florida the same way as the MTV generation. No worries. With Orlando two hours away, as well as 600,000-square-foot shopping paradise CityPlace in West Palm Beach, there are plenty of family-friendly options. Trying to save cash? Forgo the rides, and lounge on the beach.
Party Like a Pro
After the game, head to West Palm Beach’s Clematis Street for a string of bars and clubs. Closer to the stadium, there’s Rooney’s Public House, Jumby Bay Island Grill and the tucked-away Square Grouper Tiki Bar at Castaways Marina. “Locals will probably be mad at me for giving it away,” says Matherly.
Chowing Down
With the ocean a baseball’s throw away, seafood is a must. Try Bonefish Grill, The Crab House or Jetty’s. The latter two, in particular, boast breathtaking oceanside views. And for those full of fish, Matherly recommends Nick’s Tomato Pie. “I saw La Russa eating there once,” she fondly recalls.
