Twins release 2009 spring training schedule

By JOE CHRISTENSEN, Star Tribune

Last update: December 2, 2008 - 4:10 PM

With the World Baseball Classic stretching spring training even longer next year, the Twins will open their exhibition schedule on Feb. 25 against the Red Sox and finish on April 4 against the Pirates.

The Twins usually have one off day during the exhibition schedule. This year, they’ll have four before leaving Florida and playing the regular season opener on April 6 against Seattle at the Metrodome.

The exhibition schedule will last 35 games, with two coming against teams preparing for the WBC -- Puerto Rico on March 3 and the Netherlands on March 5.

The Twins will play three home games against the Red Sox, at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Fla., including the Feb. 25 opener, two with the Yankees and two with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Twins Pitchers and catchers will report on Feb. 15 with the first full-squad workout slated for Feb. 21.

Spring season ticket packages are now available, and single-game seats go on sale Jan. 10. For information, call 1-800-338-9467.