Bullpen, double-play, line drive, and ground ball. These terms had little or no meaning to me two years ago. Sure, I'd been to my share of Major League Baseball games in the summer for dollar hot dog nights or occasionally to a high school game as a freshman to feel involved in the "high school life" with friends (okay, and maybe get a quick glance of some baseball booty). Being half Italian and living in the city that is home to America's Football Team, Baseball was never a huge thing in my house. I could tell you what a home run was or positions, but that was about it.

Dating a driven baseball player is not like any other relationship I have been in before. It may not always be the easiest thing in the world, but it is definitely the best and let me tell you why:

1. You become an expert analyst.

When it comes to having to watching dinner in front of the TV, you are either watching a live MLB game or the MLB Network. This is where you learn the facts of the game. You eventually might also find yourself watching these things on TV to get some extra practice "learning your stuff" so you are educated at your boo thing's next game.

2. You get to enjoy meaningful games.

Sure, MLB games are fun with the big name players, lights, and action; but going to a game for someone you directly know and care for is so much more meaningful. When it's your boyfriend makes a play, hits a double, or even strikes out...you will feel the same emotions they feel. It makes the game special in more ways than one.

3. You are dating someone with pure passion.

They eat, breathe, and sleep baseball and reflect that passion in everything they do and they love sharing it with you. You are constantly throwing them balls or learning the correct batting form. You get to hear about all the blood, sweat, and tears and oddly enough, it is comforting because you know that you are with someone who is not lazy and is working toward their ultimate dream.

4. Your boyfriend has a nicer butt than you.

Baseball pants. What more of an explanation do you need?

5. You are dating someone with a special intellect.

Ever heard the phrase that baseball is 90% mental and 10% physical? Well it is true. I give major props to these guys while they are playing a game. After being a "baseball analyst" I have come to realize that it doesn't always come down to how fast you can run the bases but rather how fast and efficiently you can make a decision about how and where you are going to try and hit the ball. That takes a lot of mental skills that shows intelligence.

6. You aren't dating the "muscle head."

With these guys, life does not constantly revolve around the gym. While working out is important, it's not always about lifting. It's more about practice and how you can better improve essential skills which proves that they really aren't the kid of guys that have muscles bigger than your torso.

7. Baseball Players have a good sense of style.

I'll admit I am a sucker for the athletic style when it comes to guys, but baseball players do it best. There is nothing more attractive than a backwards baseball cap and sunglasses with croakies, am I right?!

8. They have the best t-shirts.

If you are the girl who loves to raid your boyfriends closet for a few comfy shirts to sleep or lounge in, then a baseball player is the guy for you. They get so many shirts from years of high school baseball and playing in an insane amount of tournaments. Plus they are always super soft and comfy!

9. They have the strangest rituals.

It is cute. Really. They HAVE to have the same food and snacks before every game, wear their lucky hats or special boxers, and play the same kinds of games. Whatever you do, do not interfere with this. As weird as it seems, it works for them and gives them that little boost of confidence they may need.

10. You are dating the most caring guy ever.

I bet the football girlfriends beg to differ, but I think I have found the most caring boyfriend ever in my baseball player. No matter how big or small my problems may seem, he is always there for me. Even when on the road, he takes the time to call me and tell me about his day and how things are going. Ask any other baseball girlfriend and I am sure they will agree with you...they are the absolute best.