So I’m looking forward to filing reports for Hot Foot as we make our annual voyage to Port St. Lucie March 15-18. This is 8 years now we’ve been doing this and allow me to reflect on some very memorable moments.

First off, I’ll never forget my very first game at T.J. White Stadium (now Tradition Field). We sat two rows behind home plate and watched Masato Yoshii give up 10 runs over the first two innings. I remember some slick, grey haired guy looking very uncomfortable and another younger grey haired guy who yapped on his cell phone constantly, literally right in front of us. Turned out to be Freddy Coupons and Steve Phillips. So, of course, I had to hit Steve with, “I hope you’re not ordering Japanese.”

One other great memory stands out and that was my first glimpse and the Mets future SS back in 2001. He was skinny and fast as can be, and his infectious love for the game was as evident then as it is now. Somehow you just knew Reyes was going to be special.

Fast forward to last year, running into John Maine at a local Publix, I have to say there is nothing quite like Spring Training.

Pictures, video and updates to come. Let the countdown begin.