How to Watch Texas Rangers Spring Training in Fort Worth Area

The Texas Rangers, one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, hold their annual Spring Training in the heart of Texas — but not in Arlington, where they play their regular season games. Instead, their official Spring Training home is Surprise Stadium in Surprise, Arizona. However, many fans living in or near the Fort Worth area are eager to experience the excitement of live Spring Training action without traveling across the state or country. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for Fort Worth residents and visitors who want to watch Texas Rangers Spring Training games — whether through live broadcasts, local viewing events, fan gatherings, or strategic travel planning. While no official Spring Training games are held in Fort Worth, there are multiple meaningful, accessible, and immersive ways to engage with the team during this pivotal preseason period.

Understanding how to watch Texas Rangers Spring Training from the Fort Worth area is more than just finding a TV channel — it’s about connecting with the rhythm of the season, tracking player development, and participating in a community of loyal fans. Spring Training is where prospects rise, veterans regain form, and roster decisions are made. For Fort Worth baseball enthusiasts, staying engaged during this time builds anticipation for the regular season and deepens appreciation for the team’s evolution. This guide ensures you never miss a moment — whether you’re watching from your living room, joining a local fan club, or planning a short trip to Arizona.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm the Official Spring Training Location and Schedule

Before planning how to watch, verify where the Texas Rangers conduct their Spring Training. The team trains at Surprise Stadium, located in Surprise, Arizona — a facility shared with the Kansas City Royals. This is the only official location for live Spring Training games. The 2025 schedule typically begins in mid-February and runs through late March. Games are played daily, with split-squad matchups occurring frequently. Visit the official Texas Rangers website (texasrangers.com) and navigate to the “Spring Training” section to access the full schedule, including game times, opponents, and broadcast details.

Mark your calendar for key dates: Opening Day of Spring Training, Fan Fest (usually held the weekend before games begin), and the final exhibition game before Opening Night. These events often feature special appearances, autograph sessions, and extended access to players.

Step 2: Subscribe to Official Streaming and Broadcast Services

While you can’t attend games in Fort Worth, you can watch them live from home through authorized platforms. The Texas Rangers’ official broadcast partner for Spring Training is MLB.TV. This subscription service offers live, ad-free streaming of every Spring Training game, including audio and video options for both home and away broadcasts.

To access MLB.TV:

• Visit mlb.com/tv
• Select “Spring Training” from the season filter
• Choose the Texas Rangers game you wish to watch
• Subscribe to the “All Teams” package for full access

Additionally, local Fort Worth television stations such as KTVT (CBS 11) and WFAA (ABC 8) occasionally air select Spring Training highlights, pre-game shows, or post-game recaps. While they rarely broadcast live games, their sports segments often feature exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage from Surprise. Tune in during the 6 p.m. or 11 p.m. news for Rangers-focused content.

Step 3: Join Local Fan Viewing Events in Fort Worth

Many sports bars, community centers, and baseball clubs in the Fort Worth area host organized Spring Training viewing parties. These gatherings are ideal for fans who want to experience the game with fellow supporters. Popular venues include:

• The Sports Bar at Billy Bob’s Texas — Hosts live game screenings with Rangers-themed trivia and giveaways.
• Old Glory Pub — Features a dedicated Rangers corner with team merchandise and live audio feeds.
• Fort Worth Baseball Club — A fan-run organization that organizes weekly watch parties at local breweries like Deep Ellum Brewing Co. (Fort Worth location).

To find these events:

• Follow the official Texas Rangers Facebook and Instagram accounts — they often promote local fan gatherings.
• Search “Texas Rangers Spring Training watch party Fort Worth” on Facebook Events or Meetup.com.
• Join the “Fort Worth Rangers Fan Club” on Reddit or Discord for real-time updates.

Arrive early to secure seating, and consider bringing team gear to show your support. Many venues offer discounted drinks and themed food specials during games.

Step 4: Utilize Radio and Podcast Coverage

For fans who prefer audio or want to follow games while commuting, the Texas Rangers Radio Network is essential. While the flagship station, 105.3 The Fan (KESN), is based in Dallas, its signal reaches most of the Fort Worth metroplex. Tune in during game hours for live play-by-play commentary by the Rangers’ official broadcast team, including Eric Nadel and Dave Raymond.

Additionally, the Rangers’ official podcast, “The Rangers Report,” releases weekly Spring Training episodes featuring player interviews, manager press conferences, and injury updates. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts for daily insights.

Step 5: Follow Live Stats and In-Game Updates

Even if you can’t watch the full game, staying informed is critical. Use the following tools for real-time updates:

• MLB App — Offers live scoring, pitch-by-pitch tracking, and instant highlights.
• Baseball Reference — Provides detailed box scores, player stats, and Spring Training leaderboards.
• Twitter/X — Follow @TexasRangers and @RangersPR for instant game alerts, lineup changes, and video snippets.
• ESPN+ and Yahoo Sports — Both platforms offer condensed game recaps and key moments within minutes of game conclusion.

Set up notifications for “Texas Rangers” on your phone to receive breaking news such as roster cuts, injury reports, or position battles — all of which are especially critical during Spring Training.

Step 6: Plan a Day Trip to Surprise, Arizona (Optional but Recommended)

If you have the flexibility, consider making a weekend trip to Surprise Stadium. The drive from Fort Worth to Surprise is approximately 11 hours, but many fans combine the journey with a visit to Phoenix or Scottsdale. Flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) take under 2.5 hours and are often available for under $150 round-trip during non-holiday weeks.

Once in Surprise:

• Purchase tickets in advance via texasrangers.com/tickets — Spring Training games are affordable, with general admission starting at $10.
• Arrive early to catch batting practice — players often sign autographs and interact with fans near the dugouts.
• Visit the Rangers’ team store at Surprise Stadium for exclusive Spring Training merchandise.
• Take advantage of the stadium’s free parking and family-friendly amenities, including kids’ zones and food trucks.

Many Fort Worth fans organize carpool trips through fan forums. Look for “Rangers Spring Training Carpool Fort Worth” on Facebook groups to share gas and lodging costs.

Step 7: Create a Personal Spring Training Watch Routine

Consistency enhances your experience. Design a weekly viewing schedule that fits your lifestyle:

• Monday/Wednesday/Friday — Watch afternoon games live on MLB.TV while having lunch.
• Tuesday/Thursday — Listen to radio coverage during your commute.
• Saturday — Attend a local watch party or host your own with friends.
• Sunday — Watch condensed game highlights on MLB’s YouTube channel and read analysis from local sports writers.

Keep a journal or digital spreadsheet to track player performance — note batting averages, strikeout rates, defensive shifts, and bullpen usage. This will help you anticipate roster decisions and deepen your understanding of the team’s strategy.

Best Practices

Practice 1: Prioritize Official Sources Over Unverified Content

During Spring Training, rumors spread quickly — especially about injuries, trades, or breakout prospects. Always verify information through official team channels, press releases, or trusted journalists like Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News or Calvin Watkins of ESPN. Avoid relying on anonymous social media accounts or unverified fan forums for roster predictions.

Practice 2: Engage with the Team’s Digital Ecosystem

The Rangers maintain an active digital presence across platforms. Follow their YouTube channel for daily Spring Training vlogs, behind-the-scenes locker room footage, and player interviews. Subscribe to their newsletter for exclusive content delivered to your inbox — including printable schedules, printable fan guides, and early access to ticket giveaways.

Practice 3: Understand the Purpose of Spring Training

Spring Training is not about wins and losses — it’s about evaluation. Pitchers are building arm strength, rookies are adjusting to big league speed, and veterans are fine-tuning mechanics. Don’t judge a player’s performance based on a single poor game. Instead, look for consistency over time: Does a young shortstop show improved footwork? Is the new relief pitcher commanding his slider? These are the signs of development.

Practice 4: Dress for the Weather — Even When Watching at Home

Surprise, Arizona, enjoys warm, dry weather in February and March. While you’re watching from Fort Worth, where temperatures may still be cool, embrace the Arizona vibe. Wear your Rangers cap, sip a cold drink, and create a “stadium atmosphere” at home. This small ritual enhances immersion and makes the experience more enjoyable.

Practice 5: Involve Family and Friends

Spring Training is a great opportunity to introduce younger fans to the game. Host a “Rangers Kids Day” at home — let children draw their favorite players, make homemade ballpark snacks (hot dogs, peanuts, and lemonade), and quiz them on player names. This builds lifelong fandom and turns passive watching into an active, educational experience.

Practice 6: Avoid Over-Scheduling Your Viewing

With 30+ Spring Training games per team, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Focus on games featuring key players you want to monitor — such as core starters, top prospects like Evan Carter or Josh Jung, or pitchers returning from injury. Skip low-stakes matchups unless you’re tracking specific bench players.

Practice 7: Respect Team Policies and Fan Etiquette

If attending a local watch party or traveling to Arizona, remember: Rangers fans are known for their passion — but also their sportsmanship. Don’t boo opposing players, even if they’re former Rangers. Avoid disruptive behavior on social media. Be respectful to staff, fellow fans, and players. The Rangers organization values a positive, inclusive fan culture — and you should too.

Tools and Resources

Official Tools

• MLB.TV — Primary streaming platform for live Spring Training games.
• Texas Rangers Official App — Push notifications, schedules, player bios, and exclusive video content.
• Surprise Stadium Virtual Tour — Explore the facility online at texasrangers.com/surprise-stadium.
• Baseball Savant (statcast.mlb.com) — Advanced analytics for pitch velocity, exit velocity, and launch angle during Spring Training.

Local Fort Worth Resources

• Fort Worth Star-Telegram Sports Section — Daily Rangers coverage, including Spring Training updates and local fan spotlights.
• TCU’s Dickie’s Baseball Academy — Occasionally hosts Rangers alumni for youth clinics — check their calendar for public events.
• Fort Worth Public Library — Offers free access to MLB.TV through its digital library portal for cardholders.

Third-Party Tools

• Google Calendar — Sync the Rangers’ Spring Training schedule and set reminders for game times.
• Notion or Google Sheets — Create a player performance tracker with columns for at-bats, strikeouts, errors, and notes.
• YouTube Channels — Subscribe to “Rangers TV” and “MLB Highlights” for daily game recaps.
• Weather Apps — Use AccuWeather or Windy to check Surprise’s forecast — it affects game flow and player performance.

Community Resources

• Reddit: r/TexasRangers — Active discussion board with daily game threads, player analysis, and fan theories.
• Discord Server: Rangers Fan HQ — Real-time chat during games, voice channels for live commentary, and fan art sharing.
• Facebook Groups: “Fort Worth Rangers Nation” and “Rangers Spring Training Fans” — Organize meetups, share ticket deals, and post game-day photos.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Fort Worth College Student Who Watched Every Game

Emily R., a 20-year-old communications major at Texas Christian University, made it her goal to watch every Texas Rangers Spring Training game in 2024. She used her school’s free MLB.TV access through the library portal, listened to radio broadcasts during her commute to campus, and attended two weekly watch parties at a local coffee shop. She kept a digital journal tracking the performance of rookie pitcher Mason Montgomery. By the end of Spring Training, Emily had written a 1,200-word analysis for her media class on how Montgomery’s slider improved over 18 appearances. Her professor submitted her work to the Rangers’ community blog — and it was published.

Example 2: The Carpool Group That Traveled to Surprise

A group of five Fort Worth friends — all lifelong Rangers fans — pooled resources to drive to Surprise for Opening Day of Spring Training. They left at 5 a.m. on a Friday, arrived by 4 p.m., and watched the game from the third-base bleachers. They brought homemade Rangers flags, organized a tailgate with Texas barbecue, and took photos with the team mascot, Rangers Captain. One member, a retired teacher, brought a notebook and interviewed fellow fans about their favorite Rangers memories. They returned with 12 autographs, a custom jersey for each person, and a new tradition: an annual Spring Training road trip.

Example 3: The Local Bar That Turned Viewings Into a Community Event

“The Outfield” — a sports bar in the Near Southside neighborhood of Fort Worth — transformed its Spring Training viewing nights into a community tradition. Each game, they hosted a “Rangers Roster Challenge” — fans guessed the final 26-man roster based on Spring Training performance. The winner received free food for a month. They also displayed a giant whiteboard where fans could write predictions for breakout players. By the end of March, the bar had increased its weekend sales by 40% and became a recognized hub for Rangers fans in the metroplex.

Example 4: The Digital Fan Who Built a Spring Training Tracker

James L., a software developer from Grapevine, created a free web app called “Rangers Spring Tracker” that aggregates real-time stats from MLB’s API. The app shows which players are hitting above .300, which pitchers have the lowest ERA, and which prospects are getting the most at-bats. He shared it on Reddit and Facebook, and within two weeks, over 3,000 Fort Worth fans were using it. The Rangers’ digital team even reached out to thank him — and featured his tool in their official Spring Training newsletter.

FAQs

Can I watch Texas Rangers Spring Training games live in Fort Worth?

No live games are held in Fort Worth. All official Spring Training games take place at Surprise Stadium in Arizona. However, you can watch every game live via MLB.TV, local TV highlights, radio broadcasts, or at organized fan viewing events across the city.

Is MLB.TV free to use for Spring Training games?

No, MLB.TV requires a paid subscription. However, it offers a free 7-day trial for new users. After the trial, the “All Teams” package costs $139.99 for the full season, which includes Spring Training and regular season games.

What time do Spring Training games start?

Most games begin at 1:05 p.m. or 6:10 p.m. Arizona time (MST). Fort Worth is in the Central Time Zone, so games typically start at 2:05 p.m. or 7:10 p.m. CT. Always double-check the schedule, as times vary based on TV broadcasts and split-squad arrangements.

Are tickets to Spring Training games expensive?

No. Spring Training tickets are among the most affordable in professional baseball. General admission starts at $10, reserved seats range from $15–$30, and family packs are often available for under $50. Parking is free.

Can I get player autographs at Spring Training?

Yes. Players often sign autographs before and after games near the dugouts or in the team’s fan zone. Arrive at least 90 minutes early and bring a baseball, hat, or program. Be respectful — players are working, not performing.

Which players should I watch during Spring Training?

Focus on: young prospects like Evan Carter and Josh Jung, pitchers returning from injury (e.g., Jon Gray), new additions to the roster, and veterans like Corey Seager who are fine-tuning their game. Also watch the bullpen — Spring Training often reveals surprise closers.

How do I know if a game is canceled due to weather?

Check the official Texas Rangers website or app for real-time updates. If a game is postponed, it may be rescheduled or declared a “split squad” game. MLB.TV will notify subscribers of changes.

Is there a way to watch games for free?

Some games are televised locally on regional sports networks, but most require a subscription. However, the Rangers’ official YouTube channel posts condensed game highlights within hours of game end — these are free to watch.

Can I bring my kids to a Spring Training game in Arizona?

Absolutely. Surprise Stadium is family-friendly, with a kids’ zone, free face painting, and discounted tickets for children under 12. Many families make it a spring vacation.

What’s the best way to stay updated on roster changes?

Follow the Rangers’ official Twitter/X account (@TexasRangers), subscribe to their newsletter, and check daily reports from Evan Grant (Dallas Morning News) and Calvin Watkins (ESPN). Roster cuts typically occur in late March.

Conclusion

Watching Texas Rangers Spring Training from the Fort Worth area is not just about catching a game — it’s about becoming part of a season-long narrative. While the physical games occur in Arizona, the emotional connection happens right here, in living rooms, local bars, and fan forums across North Texas. By leveraging official streaming services, joining community events, tracking player development, and even planning a short trip to Surprise, Fort Worth fans can experience Spring Training in a way that’s rich, engaging, and deeply personal.

This guide has provided you with the tools, strategies, and real-world examples to turn passive viewing into active fandom. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a new fan discovering the thrill of baseball’s renewal, the path to meaningful engagement is clear. Don’t just watch the games — understand them. Don’t just cheer for the team — learn their story. And above all, don’t let geography limit your passion.

Spring Training is where legends are reborn, careers are defined, and hope is renewed. For Fort Worth fans, that hope is never far away — it’s just a click, a tune, or a short drive from your doorstep. So mark your calendar, gather your gear, and get ready for the season that begins long before Opening Day.