Twins welcome fans back for Grapefruit League home opener

The Minnesota Twins welcomed the Boston Red Sox to Hammond Stadium on Saturday for the Twins' spring training home opener. This marked the beginning of the Grapefruit League games for both teams, which call Lee County home during this time of year.

For many fans, the event was a yearly tradition.

"We come every year for Opening Day," said David Burns.

Terry Olson shared the sentiment, saying, "It was blizzarding up in Minnesota, so we had to come down here."

The Demorett family traveled from Wisconsin and Minnesota for more than just baseball, they're celebrating birthdays as well.

"He was the 18th and mine is tomorrow. So it's a little early birthday present," said Mary Demorett.

David and Bev Slinden have been attending spring training for 25 years.

"The tickets were 7 dollars," said Bev Slinden.

David Slinden added, "The games," when asked why they keep coming back.

The game on Saturday marked the start of Grapefruit League action, with Twins pitcher Joe Ryan initially slated to start but scratched before the first pitch.

Fans filled Hammond Stadium to cheer on their teams.

"It gives you a good family feeling," said David Burns.

"Looking forward to the optimistic outlook to a new season," said Andy Demorett.

The Olson family, married for 40 years, enjoyed revisiting a place filled with memories.

"It started with our kids. And they were able to get autographs and run around and have a blast. It was really meaningful. It's just a big part of the Fort Myers experience," said Terri Olson.

The game concluded with the Red Sox defeating the Twins 7-2.

The Red Sox will host the Toronto Blue Jays at JetBlue Park, while the Twins will travel to North Port to play the Braves.

WINK News will provide coverage of both games.