Charlotte Sports Park buzzes with Rays' spring training excitement

Pitchers and catchers have arrived at Charlotte Sports Park, kicking off spring training for the Tampa Bay Rays. Fans eagerly lined the fences for autographs, marking a tradition that has been going strong since the 1990s.

For lifelong fan Harry Bouldry, baseball is more than just a game. It's a hobby that spans decades.

The sounds of fastballs hitting gloves and bats cracking during early batting practice filled Charlotte Sports Park as players warmed up. Fans gathered to witness the first signs of a new season. Among them was 78-year-old Bouldry, who has been collecting baseball cards for over 30 years.

“I start by doing an alphabetical so I can find the players so far today, Shane signed and Trevor Martin, that's in the M’s,” said Bouldry. “I think I have four or five for today, but you have to prepare, and you end up buying 1000s and 1000s of cards, and you hopefully get 80 to 100 of them signed.”

Nick Martinez made his way down the line to sign Bouldry’s binder, creating a cherished moment for a devoted fan.