CLEVELAND, Ohio — In 16 days, when semi-trailers arrive at Progressive Field for loading, it won’t be just baseball gear heading out; it will mark the awakening of baseball season from its winter slumber in Cleveland.
Truck Day, a beloved quirk celebrated mostly by dedicated reporters and clubhouse personnel, is making its return to Progressive Field after several years away, disrupted by COVID-19 and stadium renovations. This event is characterized by the loading of equipment onto trucks for the journey to spring training.
“This is the kickoff for spring training,” states Paul Hoynes, a Guardians beat reporter for cleveland.com. “The only missing element will be the late, great Casey Coleman interviewing the truck driver as they head out.”
For baseball enthusiasts, Truck Day signifies far more than its simple appearance—it heralds the approaching reporting dates for pitchers and catchers, with the first spring training games looming as well.
What makes this event particularly intriguing is the variety of items loaded onto the trucks. It encompasses more than just bats, balls, and uniforms. “I’m always amazed at how many water bottles are packed,” remarks Joe Noga, another beat reporter. “Arizona has water, yet contracts dictate what drinks the players can consume, necessitating these shipments.”
The logistics become particularly noteworthy when considering the medical equipment transported, including an X-ray machine. In previous years, reporters have chronicled everything from former manager Terry Francona’s scooter to countless packs of bubble gum.
Truck Day initiates the Guardians’ countdown to the 2026 season. After the equipment’s arrival in Arizona, World Baseball Classic players will report by February 9, with their first official workout on February 11. Other players will join soon after, with the first Cactus League matchup against the Reds set for February 21.
