Staff Reports | Community Updates
Mesa recorded increased attendance during the 2026 Cactus League season, led by the Chicago Cubs, who topped league attendance for the 13th consecutive year.
Combined attendance for Cubs and Athletics games in Mesa reached 338,641 spectators this spring, up from 310,206 in 2025, reflecting gains for both teams during the season, according to a press release.
A total of 240,609 fans attended 19 games at Sloan Park from Feb. 20 to March 24, an average of 12,664 per game. The Cubs drew the largest crowd at any Cactus League ballpark this spring when 15,788 spectators attended their game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 15.
At HoHoKam Stadium, 98,032 fans attended 17 Athletics games, up from 82,636 the previous season.
“Spring training is a big part of what makes Mesa special,” Mayor Mark Freeman said. “It brings in fans, supports our local businesses and keeps our economy strong. With the Cubs and A’s making up nearly 20% of Cactus League attendance, it shows Mesa is a top place for spring baseball and a great experience for visitors. Even with unexpected triple-digit temperatures at the end, fans still showed up. That says a lot about the energy and pride we have here in Mesa.”
Both teams adjusted late-season schedules by moving some games to the evening to avoid extreme daytime heat and improve conditions for fans.
“The city works closely with the Cubs and A’s not just during spring training but throughout the year,” Assistant City Manager Marc Heirshberg said. “This partnership assures that Mesa is not only providing the best-in-class training facilities for their players but also consistent experiences for fans attending the games.”
Across the league, more than 1.7 million fans attended 237 Cactus League games this spring, marking the fifth consecutive season of increased attendance.
Attendance figures for Cubs and Athletics games in Mesa include two World Baseball Classic games and two Spring Breakout games.
