We're here in Sararsota for the first day of spring training. The Orioles pitchers and catchers report today.

The Orioles' remodeled Ed Smith Stadium facility still has that fresh-coat-of-paint smell, and the new digs are pretty impressive. You definitely get the classic feel of Camden Yards walking around. There's nice leather seats in the lobby. Banners of the Orioles' who have had their numbers retired are hanging on the exterior of the facility here.

I remember coming here in spring training during the Reds' final season here. It looks like a totally different place now. As much as the Orioles haven't won lately, this facility looks sparkling so far.

There are about a dozen Asian media here from both Taiwan and Japan. The Orioles' acquisition of pitchers Chen Wei-Yin and Tsuyoshi Wada will definitely increase the reporting corps.

We'll have clubhouse access later this morning . Expect more to come today.

Meanwhile, take a look at today's look at "The Starting Nine: What to look for from the Orioles in spring training."