Behind-the-scenes at Peoria Sports Complex

Posted by Katie Greene

JOHN LOK / THE SEATTLE TIMES

As the end of Mariners Spring Training in Peoria, AZ approaches, Peoria Sports Complex manager Chris Easom discusses the major preparation that goes on behind-the-scenes at the ballpark.

JOHN LOK / THE SEATTLE TIMES

Al Siebert, grounds-crew supervisor, lays a fresh coat of paint down the third-base line before the first game of spring training Friday.

JOHN LOK / THE SEATTLE TIMES

A tub of Rawlings baseballs are seen on one of the practice fields during Seattle Mariners Spring Training at the Peoria Sports Complex on Thursday, February 21, 2013, in Peoria, Ariz. According to Ted Walsh, equipment manager for the team, about 12,000 balls are ordered each year for Spring Training.

JOHN LOK / THE SEATTLE TIMES

Ann Brunelle, left, of Kirkland, and friend Betty Harris, of Sedro-Woolley, watch as Mariner players rotate to a different field at the Peoria Sports Complex

JOHN LOK / THE SEATTLE TIMES

Mariners pitchers run morning laps during another training day. Pitchers often are physically drained but usually smiling at the end of their morning workout.

JOHN LOK / THE SEATTLE TIMES

Sydney Peterson, 13, of Seattle, watches batting practice during Spring Training at the Peoria Sports Complex on Tuesday, February 19, 2013, in Peoria, Ariz. She and her family had just finished playing a soccer tournament in the Phoenix-area, and dropped by to see the activities in Peoria. She was waiting to get an autograph from outfielder Casper Wells. When asked why specifically Wells, she said, "Because he's a left fielder and he's kind of cute."