Tucson, AZ (March 4, 2025) --"I am thrilled that professional baseball has returned to Tucson” said Ray Flores, CEO of Si Charro restaurants. As part of a group of Tucsonans who were determined to bring back the spring training that had made Tucson a top destination for baseball lovers from all over the world for over 60 years, capturing the World Baseball Classic is a real coup.
Originally scheduled to be held in 2020 in Tucson, the pandemic impacted the event, and local leaders rallied together to lobby for them to return this year as a qualifier site. Flores, whose company hosts lunch for the teams throughout their stay, feels the excitement building.
“ This is the first time in 15 years that Tucson is host to pro-baseball outside The Mexican Baseball Fiesta. This elevates us all, helps inspire ongoing youth sports, and brings us together as a community just when we need it. We are pleased to provide food from Si Charro catering for the teams – giving them a real Tucson experience. Other businesses including Shamrock Foods, Pepsi, and Modelo are our partners in ensuring that professional baseball l makes their way back for our beautiful springs in Tucson”.
Many other local business owners played a major role in returning professional baseball to Tucson. A major driver was SASTFA – Southern Arizona Sports, Tourism & Film Authority under the leadership of Blake Eager whose mission is to unite Southern Arizona Communities to strengthen prosperity through sports, tourism, film, and workforce development. Also included are influential local leaders Humberto Lopez of HSL Properties, Felipe Garcia, President of Visit Tucson, and many others.
Teams from Brazil, China, Colombia, and Germany will play in the classic, giving Tucsonans an exclusive new opportunity from March 2 – 6 to see the top players in the sport and catch some exciting international action in Southern Arizona. All games will be played at the Kino Sports Center at 2500 E Ajo Way. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased online at https://www.mlb.com/world-baseball-classic