Finally, spring is in the air.

I don’t care what the calendar says and I give zero credibility to a certain groundhog in Punxsutawney.

For me, 60 degrees with a side of sports is the true signal of spring — and it started on Saturday.

A baseball doubleheader at Pullman Park, followed by nine holes of golf officially vanquished a long and miserable winter.

Throughout my life, I’ve been accused of seasonal depression. But honestly, what is there to enjoy during the dreary winter months?

Sure, the snow can paint a pretty picture when it gently settles over the trees. But mostly, it’s a nuisance.

Streets become icy, sidewalks are sludge, defrosting windshields make you late for work and it takes about four layers of clothing to be somewhat comfortable outside.

There is nothing fun about winter.

Spring is the merciful end of it all.

Unless, of course, it’s not really spring yet.

A week ago today, I was at Seneca Valley’s Raider Field covering a baseball game. Track and field was competing in the distance, while lacrosse was taking practice reps.

I watched Seneca Valley and Pine-Richland pile up a combined 25 runs and couldn’t fault any of the 10 pitchers who took the mound. My hands were so cold, I could hardly hold on to my pen while keeping score. I certainly couldn’t blame a kid for losing command of his fastball in the 30-degree weather.

Three days later, I bundled up to avoid displeasure. I came prepared on the wrong day.

I walked into Pullman Park on Saturday afternoon and for the first time in 2013, had to shed my coat because it was too hot out.

The sun was beaming down on the seats, a slight breeze swept through the stadium and you better believe I was soaking in every moment of it.

To start the twinbill, Freeport edged Knoch 4-3 in a fairly quick game. There was over an hour until Karns City and Keystone clashed, which gave my mind plenty of time to wander.

I didn’t start golfing until a few years ago — and it shows. I’m a double-bogey hacker, but it’s still enjoyable and I’m determined to improve.

I figure competing on the Champions Tour — the age 50-and-over circuit — will be my final shot at fulfilling a lifetime goal of becoming a professional athlete, so I better practice up.

Daydreams of walking down a fairway ensued.

Once Karns City and Keystone started, it became evident the game was no contest. The Gremlins promptly wrapped up a 14-3 victory in five innings, allowing me time to head for the golf course.

I teed it up for the first time in 2013 as the sun began to descend behind the trees.

The view was far more beautiful than my drive, but my golf shot wasn’t the reason I wanted to be on the course.

The sight of spring was all I needed.

Jason Orfao is a staff writer for the Butler Eagle.