Sen. McCain drops by D-backs Spring Training

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Arizona Senator John McCain visited D-backs Spring Training on Thursday.

McCain, who attends numerous regular-season games, watched some of the club's simulated game with manager Kirk Gibson atop a tower that sits in the middle of the practice fields.

"He's a baseball fan," Gibson said. "It was an interesting conversation with him. He's very decorated, and I respect what he does in service of our country. It was interesting to get the time to share a few words with him. He's very passionate about what he does."

When practice was over, McCain walked through the D-backs' clubhouse and was greeted by several players, including Josh Collmenter, who came over to shake his hand and have a picture taken with him.

"I voted for him in Texas in 2008," Minor League pitcher Chase Anderson said, referring to the Senator's presidential run. "I'm a big John McCain fan. I mean, just what he's about. I really like his views on things. He's been a hero of mine, and my dad has liked him for a really long time. He's just a really good person all around. It brought chills to me, a little bit. It was a cool moment."

D-backs catcher Miguel Montero spoke privately with McCain about the unrest in his home country of Venezuela.

Great visit out to @dbacks spring training today - with @dbacks great Luis Gonzalez and team President @DHallDbacks: pic.twitter.com/dTOxqnmx5R

- John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) February 20, 2014