Players reported to voluntary spring training on March 11, immediately after news that negotiations were successful between the league and the players union, ending the 99-day lockout of Major League Baseball (MLB); many players had already been practicing informally with teammates, awaiting the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). “We’re going to play 162 games,” said MLB commissioner Rob Manfred. “I have to say I am genuinely thrilled to be able to say that Major League Baseball’s back, and we’re going play 162 games … by apologizing to our fans.” MLB Information: When does Spring Training begin? The mandatory report date is this Sunday, when camps officially open. Players can report as early as Friday. When do Spring Training games begin? Tentatively March 18. The revised Spring Training schedule was not yet complete, as of this writing. When is Opening Day? Thursday, April 7. That is one week later than the …