SARASOTA — The Snowbird Baseball Classic began play at Ed Smith Stadium on Friday afternoon, kicking off a six-week stretch that will bring 40 Division I and III teams to the area.

And though teams from 15 states will make their spring training pilgrimage to the Snowbird this season, Friday’s rosters featured a few familiar names. Three area alumni graced Florida Gulf Coast’s roster and former Charlotte High School star Brooks Beisner stole the show with two home runs during the Eagles’ 6-0 win against St. John’s.