Too much

George M. Steinbrenner Field is nice to look at. It seats nearly 11,000 people. And the miniature monument park out front is a nice touch.

But this doesn't feel like spring training. Spring training is all about intimacy - and GMS doesn't have a whole lot of that.

It's too big, and has too much to take in. It's tough getting close to the field, and ultimately, the players.

(Mind you, I am writing this from the point of view of a spectator).

Cozy McKechnie Field feels like spring training. Joker Marchant feels like spring training. Even the Phillies' new park in Clearwater, which has a tiki bar in the outfield, still has a right-on-top-of-the-action charm.

Make no mistake, GMS is beatiful. And most of the seats are under an awning, providing sun-baked Floridians with shade.

It's just a litte too much.