Mets pitchers and catchers will host their first official workout of spring training on the back fields of Clover Park starting Feb. 12.

There is no charge to enter the back fields and attend workouts. Parking for just workouts is usually free, but I keep hearing that may change at some point.

The games, which start Feb. 22, are fun to watch. It's a sunny, upbeat, breezy environment as you're surrounded by true Mets fans and local old-timers that have been going to games here for over 30 years.

For me, though, if I had to choose, I prefer to attend the workouts.

KEY THINGS TO KNOW

First off, dress in layers. The mornings can be cold and windy, but it quickly gets hot and humid.

Bring sunscreen and a hat. Trust me.

The team trains on five to six practice fields behind Clover Park. It's wide open, but organized with pathways to walk from field-to-field. In the center between the four main practice fields are covered stands, benches, bathrooms and a concession stand with a grill, drinks, etc. I recommend the chicken sandwich.

Here, fans can hang on the fence, high-five players running by, andmaybe spark a quick conversation when a guy is changing cleats on the bench. You can hear discussion between players and coaches and observe action from a closeness and point of view that is rarely experienced any other time of year.

The games are fun. However, the no-pressure, intimate, casual vibe during workout week allows fans to watch the team work on specific aspects of the game. If you have kids interesting in learning, it's a great place to go, watch and talk about baseball as a collection of skills, not just wins, losses and strategy.

AUTOGRAPHS

Players will occasionally stop between drills to sign autographs, but that is rare. Remember, they're there to do a job, there's a schedule and potential consequences if they're late for an assignment or drill. So, don't be offended or feel disrespected if a guy runs by and can't stop.

This is why it's best to catch players at the end of practice, after which they'll exit through either the center field fence on Field 7 or jog along the interior fence on Field 2. Typically, for whatever reason, most position players exit through Field 7, while minor leaguers, pitchers and catchers tend to go through Field 2.

Lastly, bring whatever you want to be autographed, not just baseballs, hats, cards, pictures, etc. When you're creative, guys tend to notice you more. Most important, don't forget a marker or pen.

Here's a map I made years ago to show where fans are able to walk, starting when camp opens to the public each day, as well as good spots to get autographs and talk with players. Be aware, this could be changing due to renovations to the ballpark.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When can I start attending workouts? The first pitcher-and-catcher workout is Feb. 12

What's the closest airport? Palm Beach (PBI), which is 40 miles away

How much do game tickets cost at Clover Park? It changes yearly, but usually $15-$35

How do I buy tickets? At the gate, on the Mets website, or call 772-871-2115

What's the address? 31 Piazza Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL

AROUND PORT. ST LUCIE

The main drag is Port St. Lucie Boulevard and Highway 1, which are surrounded by a variety of local and chain restaurants, grocery stores, bars, Walmart, hotels, pharmacies and more or less anything you would need on a trip away from home.

The closest beach is Hutchinson Island, which is roughly 30 minutes away.

BEST HOTELS

Sheraton PGA Vacation Resort

8702 Champions Way, Port St. Lucie, FL
772-460-5700

PGA Village is set up like a condo complex with a gated entrance. It's nice, secluded and has a residential feel that is perfect for extended trips.

Marriott Residence Inn

1920 SW Fountainview Boulevard, Port St. Lucie, FL
772-344-7814

Convenient to the highway and ballpark, lots of food options close by and a nice pool and patio with fire pit.

Homewood Suites

10301 SW Innovation Way, Port St. Lucie, FL
772-345-5300

Similar to the Residence Inn, the Homewood is in Tradition, which is a roughly 15-minute drive to the ballpark. However, Tradition is a new, pristine section of town worth exploring if you're looking for something more quant.

BUDGET HOTELS

MainStay Suites At PGA Village

8501 Champions Way, Port St. Lucie, FL
772-460-8882

SpringHill Suites by Marriott

2000 NW Courtyard Circle, Port St. Lucie, FL
772-871-2929

Hampton Inn & Suites

155 SW Peacock Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL
772-878-5900

POPULAR BARS & RESTAURANTS

Duffy's Sports Grill

3001 SW Port St Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL
772-202-5155

Popular location right by the ballpark, fan friendly, has bowling, arcade, batting cages and dozens of TVs.

Vine & Barley

1680 SW St. Lucie West Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL
772-446-7550

Great selection of local and national craft beers, wine, friendly staff, outdoor patio, acoustic music on occasion. I loved this place and would go every day after work.

West End Grill

1680 St Lucie West Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL
772-343-1146

Small space, but a large outdoor area, which is where most people dine. Good menu, though it hasn't changed in forever. It's a nice place to go around sunset for a light meal and quick drink. More adults, less families.

Tutto Fresco

9501 Reserve Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL
772-464-8988

I love this place. It's also popular with players, coaches and team employees. Traditional Italian, huge space, terrific under-cover outdoor option, two bars, huge menu, terrific sauce and amazing garlic bread.

Hokkaido

1960 NW Courtyard Circle, Port St. Lucie, FL
772-878-4188

It's hibachi. It's good. But, to me, hibachi is hibachi. You know the drill.

CHEAP EATS

Berry Fresh Cafe, Chipotle, and countless other small spots, delis and chain restaurants line for miles both sides of Highway 1. There's something for everyone at all price levels, here are a few...

Berry Fresh Cafe

1718 SW St. Lucie West Blvd., St. Lucie West, FL
772-336-5291

Chipotle

1768 SW Saint Lucie West Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL
772-204-8788

Starbucks

1789 NW St. Lucie West Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL
772-807-8931

FINAL THOUGHTS

The unique thing about life in St. Lucie West is that everyone there is fully aware that it's spring training and -- because the St. Lucie Mets call it home -- Mets culture is in the air.

It's also possible you may stay in a hotel or eat in a restaurant and spot players, coaches and team executives grabbing a bite to eat, meeting friends in the lobby or picking up coffee at Starbucks.

For instance, out at dinner with my friend, Vinny, one night, David Wright picked up our check. Jerry Manuel and I had a conversation in line at Walmart. Dan Warthen was once my neighbor at the Marriott, and while washing clothes in the laundromat I ended up teaching Wilmer Flores how to fold socks in a ball. Life can be weird.

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