Oxford defines baseball as "a ball game played between two teams of nine on a diamond-shaped circuit of four bases." However, I define it as "my favorite thing in the whole world." Baseball has been considered America's past time since the close of the Civil War in 1865. The National League of Professional Baseball Clubs, or more commonly known as the National League, was founded on February 2, 1876. The American League began in 1901, with the first World Series between the Boston Americans and the Pittsburg Pirates shortly after in 1903. Baseball has been around in this country for a very long time, and has no doubt made its mark on American history. However, the times are changing, and so is our national past time.
Football has taken over. Americans now associate football as being the sport of our country, and indeed, America's favorite game. Super Bowl Sunday has become one of the biggest events in our calendar year. Even people who aren't fans of the game watch the Super Bowl (even if it's only for the commercials). The World Series, however, has lost attention, because who could compare with the level of entertainment that the NFL brings to the Super Bowl? Americans today want as many bells and whistles as they can get, which is exactly what the NFL gives them, and the Series faded to the background. It's inevitable that football has taken baseball's place, and I couldn't be more disappointed.
Don't get me wrong, I love football as any southern girl should. But baseball will forever have my heart. Here's why.
1. The excitement. I personally don't think there is anything more nerve-wracking than a full count with bases loaded. Is there anything more exciting than a walk-off grand slam? Don't think so. Have you ever seen anything better than a well turned double play? Still don't think so. Baseball can be an incredibly exciting sport if you understand it.
2. The atmosphere. While an unimaginably loud football stadium is a whole lot of fun, there's something about the atmosphere of baseball that I will always love. The smell of hot dogs and fresh air is such a good combo. Paired with yelling fans and yelling vendors, a cool drink in your hand, some good people by your side, and equally as good people on the field, how could I want more?
3. The dedicated fans. Unless you're a Yankees fan, your team hasn't won very many World Series championships. You won't see too many bandwaggoners in this sport like you will in the others. Come pouring down rain or way too hot of sunshine, the fans are there whether it's Little League or MLB. Baseball fans are a dedicated breed, even when their team is struggling. Go Bravos.
4. The history. Baseball has been an important part of American history for well over one hundred years. We've seen Major League Baseball change from one league with 8 clubs, to a multimillion dollar organization with 30 teams. We've witnessed the Dead Ball Era, integration, steroids, baseball in the Olympics, strikes, and the setting (and breaking) of countless records. Baseball has had many ups and downs over the years and has come a long way. One has to appreciate a game that can last that long.
5. The magic. The magic behind baseball is something that can never be explained. There's just something about watching those Little Leaguers fall in love with the game for the first time, or seeing the boys you grew up with win a championship game. I could almost swear that the sound of the bat meeting the ball was handcrafted by angels, and the smell of a leather glove is incomparable. There comes an overwhelming feeling when they light off the fireworks after a win in the big leagues, and you'll never forget playing catch with your dad in the backyard. No one can explain the magic, but it's there. And that's what makes baseball so special.
So buy me some peanuts and crackerjacks (or actually seeds and nachos), and take me out to the baseball game. Because that's where I will always choose to be.
