Its official! Major League Baseball is back. Well, kind of. MLB spring training started officially on Feb. 17 when the pitchers and catchers reported to spring training. Position players reported just five days later on Feb. 22.

Games are slated to begin on Feb. 28 in both the Cactus and Grapefruit leagues. The Cactus League, which is located in Arizona, is running its usual schedule. Each team will play two games apiece against each other.

The Grapefruit League is operating a little differently this year. With the teams being spread throughout the state of Florida, the league is attempting to limit travel. Clubs located on the East coast (Astros, Marlins, Mets, Cardinals and Nationals) are playing 24 games amongst themselves. Clubs on the West coast will be split into two groups, each playing 28 games. The Blue Jays, Phillies, Tigers and Yankees make up one group. The Braves, Rays, Red Sox and Twins make up the other.

Fans are being allowed to attend games this spring in both leagues. Teams are limiting seating with various protocols in place. Fans are being placed in pods with strict social distancing and mask policies.

This spring we will see some key players in new places. The biggest move we saw this offseason was superstar shortstop, Francisco Lindor being sent from the Indians to the Mets. Cy Young Award winner, Trevor Bauer was moved from the Reds to the Dodgers. This move solidifies an already very good Dodgers rotation and should make them favorites to repeat for another World Series title. Nolan Arenado was another big piece being traded from the Rockies to the Cardinals.

Opening Day is set for April 1 and we can all rest assured knowing that there is baseball being played.