Three MLB teams Columbus fans can root for this season

Maybe you're a diehard fan , or maybe you just like the smell of fresh hot dogs and popcorn.

• Either way, opening day is a big deal.

Why it matters: Today signals the joyous and long-awaited arrival of spring, a day when all MLB fan bases share a glimmer of hope that this is finally the year. (It usually isn't.)

So, who to root for? If your loyalty isn't already locked up, some options:

🟥 Cincinnati Reds

Travel time to stadium from downtown Columbus: 1 hour, 36 minutes

Unique hot dog: The "Big Red Dog" wrapped in bacon, topped with pimento cheese and "signature sauce" and served on a toasted pretzel bun.

Why root for them: Cincinnati's a great baseball city , it's our closest major league team and (gasp) the franchise actually spent money this off-season to sign better players.

🛡️ Cleveland Guardians

Travel time to stadium: 2 hours, 10 minutes

Unique hot dog: The "Slider Dog" topped with Froot Loops, bacon and pimento mac and cheese.

Why root for them: Team leader José Ramírez is awesome, the mascot is a lovable oaf and the stadium frequently offers $2 cans of beer.

🏴‍☠️ Pittsburgh Pirates

Travel time to stadium: 3 hours

Unique hot dog: The "Renegade Dog" topped with pot roast, mini pierogies, pickles and onions.

Why root for them: You get to be an outcast. Plus, PNC Park offers unbelievable views of downtown Pittsburgh.

Sign up for Axios Columbus for free.