I love San Diego sports. My heart broke a little when the Chargers lost (whose didn’t?) but it has started to flutter again at the thought of the 2009 Padres season starting soon (I don’t like to say baseball season, when the only team that matters is the PADRES).

Was there anything more exciting than eating a roasted beet salad complete with goat cheese and a citrus vinaigrette while watching the Chargers score touch down after touch down? And I know for my meat-loving friends, a Padres home run will be all the sweeter when paired with a chili brown sugar rubbed ribeye pork chop accompanied by perfect white cheddar mac and cheese. Feeling confused? It’s about time up your game and visit The Fleetwood.

Sports fans know that these ultimate combinations are available only at the The Fleetwood – located downtown next to Petco Park, our favorite luxury sports bar that features a gourmet but unpretentious restaurant and comfortable lounging spots. Non-sports fans fake the love of the game so that they too can enjoy The Fleetwood’s vibe, food, and music.

Not a huge sports fan? Maybe you’re indifferent to The Fleetwood’s Petco location and the approaching Padres season. No problem; you can still get excited about the World Baseball Classic from March 15-19 for the food and drink specials alone. The Fleetwood has Direct TV sports packages, but you’ll be more interested in the weekend champagne brunch and the late night lounge menu. Sports fans might be thrilled to recline on a leather couch while watching their team projected onto a ten-foot, high-def screen, but – let’s keep it real – you’ll be there for Blaster Thursdays – a weekly party hosting guest DJs from across the County.

Whether you’re excited to see a player make it to first base or just hope that a player takes you there, spring means baseball and patio dining at The Fleetwood - a combination that ensures that everyone who comes out to play will win.

Visit The Fleetwood – our favorite upscale sports bar in San Diego – for details on World Baseball Classic food and drink specials, as well as the weekly lineup for Blaster Thursdays. Check out San Diego party pics from Blaster Thursday here.