Though the temperatures in 2014 are higher than average so far, spring is still far away. Nonetheless the Challengers baseball and softball teams are practicing indoors since early January.

The teams are practicing between two and six hours a week, with special workouts for pitchers and catchers. The practices for the seniors teams take place at the Rämibühl gym close to the University of Zurich, while practice for the juniors teams takes place at the Aubrücke gym in Zürich-Schwamendingen and the Schauenberg gym for pitchers and catchers in Zürich-Affoltern.

Though the indoor practices may not replace the work at the ballpark, the teams are excited to be back in action. At least they don't have to worry about bad weather.

The Zurich outdoor season will start with the 17th edition of the Zurich International Spring Tournament on March 29 and 30 at the Heerenschürli ballpark.