Dignity Health Urges the Public to Protect Their Skin at Spring Training 

Oncologist’s advice on reducing skin cancer risk while enjoying the games

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Feb. 20, 2026) - Spring Training swings into action today in the Valley, drawing thousands of local and out-of-state fans to watch their favorite teams crack the bat in the preseason. But as one Dignity Health oncologist warns, from the first pitch to the final inning, there's a critical playbook to follow to prevent a sunburn and skin cancer down the line.  

“The Arizona weather, especially at this time of year, is a real homerun for fans enjoying games," said Cody Weaver, MD, an oncologist with Dignity Health Cancer Institute at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center. “But, many visitors might not be used to the punch of our intense sunshine and dry desert heat. There are a few simple steps baseball fans can take to protect their skin at Spring Training.”

Here are some ground rules to protect your skin while you're cheering in the stands:

• Limit your sun exposure: Though seats in the shade are difficult to come by, if you see any available, take advantage of them. 

• Dress appropriately: Long sleeves and pants in lightweight fabrics are ideal, along with  sunglasses, and a hat that shades your head, ears, and neck.

• Slather on SPF: Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before you head to the ballpark and reapply every couple of hours throughout the day.

• Stay Hydrated: If you get a sunburn, the body directs fluids to the affected area in order to heal it. “Drink plenty of water to prevent becoming dehydrated after being sunburned,” explains Dr. Weaver.

Following these simple plays can help you avoid a sun-induced curveball and keep skin cancers like melanoma off your roster. While melanoma makes up just one percent of skin cancer diagnoses in the United States, it accounts for the majority of skin cancer fatalities. In Arizona, melanoma is the fourth most common cancer diagnosis, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

 “If it’s caught early, melanoma is very easily treatable,” says Dr. Weaver. “But in the later stages, your five-year survival rate drops dramatically. So although prevention is key, it’s also important to get your skin checked yearly, especially if you’ve had a lot of outdoor exposure.”

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