Unlock the Joy of Baseball with These Fun Tips
Jumping to the Majors
Stop criticizing the Dodgers for their spending on talent. Every team should strive to acquire the best players. The Dodgers won the World Series in five games, showcasing their dominance. Money and coaching can take a team a long way. It's admirable that they're going all out to win back-to-back championships, a feat not achieved since the 1998-99-2000 Yankees.
From 1955 to 1965, they won four World Series but never in back-to-back years. This shows the significance of consistent effort and talent acquisition.
Reading Baseball Books
There are numerous excellent baseball books to choose from. Reading them is more beneficial than getting lost in TV shows or social media. It allows you to delve deeper into the history and stories of the game.
You'll gain insights and perspectives that enhance your understanding of baseball.
Attending Local College Games
During playoff season, make it to a local college baseball or softball game. You'll be amazed by the passion and talent on display. It reminds us that it's not always about money.
College sports have their own charm and excitement.
Listening to Radio Games
Listen to a major league game on the radio at least once a week. You'll hear interesting information from the clubhouse and stories that add to the charm of the game.
Avoid being overwhelmed by velocity numbers and statistics; focus on the human side of the game.
Visiting Cooperstown
During the offseason, visit Cooperstown. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without the crowds. Take a day to explore the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.
Cooperstown has much more to offer than just baseball, with its various museums and attractions.
Conditioning Your Glove
Take the time to condition your baseball glove. It's a simple yet essential task. Use Pecard Glove Conditioner made in the USA since 1902. Apply a light coat and let it absorb.
Your glove will thank you for the care, and it will perform better.
Hitting Fly Balls
Buy a fungo bat and go out and hit some fly balls. Teach someone how to play Three Flies Up. It's a fun and engaging activity that's better than being on TikTok.
Get involved in the game and have some physical fun.
Running the Bases
Find a ballfield and run to first base. If you have the energy, continue to second base. It's not as easy as it seems but is more enjoyable than a boring treadmill.
Pay attention to proper technique for a better running experience.
Watching Baseball Movies
On a chilly day, watch a baseball movie. Any baseball movie can transport you to the world of the game and evoke memories.
It's a great way to relax and enjoy the sport.
Eating Hot Dogs at Games
When you go to a game, especially a Little League game, eat a hot dog. Make sure it's well done. There's something special about a hot dog at a ballgame.
As Humphrey Bogart said, "A hot dog at the ballpark is better than a steak at the Ritz."
Focusing on Traditional Stats
As a fan, focus on traditional stats like wins, losses, ERA for pitchers, and batting average for hitters. These stats tell an important story and shouldn't be overlooked.
Don't be swayed by modern analytics; the basics still matter.
Reading Box Scores
Get back to reading box scores. It helps with critical thinking and understanding the game. When newspapers stopped printing them, it was a sign of a decline in reader interest.
Putting 2 plus 2 together in box scores reveals a lot about the game.
Remembering Bucky Walters
Pitcher/third baseman/manager Bucky Walters once said, "Hell, if the game was half as complicated as some of these writers make it out it is, a lot of us boys from the farm would never have been able to make a living at it." His simplicity and success in 1939 (27 wins, 2.29 ERA) are inspiring.
Keep it simple and focus on the fundamentals.
Reggie Jackson's Perspective
Reggie Jackson said, "I have a hard time believing athletes are overpriced. If an owner is losing money, give it up. It's a business." His words hold true in today's baseball landscape.
Owners need to make smart decisions based on business realities.
Vin Scully's Wisdom
The great Vin Scully noted, "It's a mere moment in a man's life between the All-Star Game and an old-timer's game." This reminds us of the fleeting nature of a baseball career.
Appreciate every moment in the game.
Playing Wiffle Ball
In 1953, David N. Mullany invented the Wiffle Ball. It's a game for all ages, and it's never too late to play with your grandchildren.
Bring back the joy of childhood with Wiffle Ball.
Comparing Baseball Cards
Buy a pack of older baseball cards and a new pack and compare the differences. It's a fun way to explore the evolution of the sport and the cards.
Discover the history and nostalgia in baseball cards.
Trash Talking in Baseball
If a team wants to trash talk, especially after winning the World Series like the Dodgers, let them. It builds rivalries and highlights the importance of fundamentals.
Don't be afraid to stand up for your team.
Attending Baseball Lectures
Find baseball lectures on Zoom or in your area and attend. Hear stories, laugh, and learn. It's a great way to expand your knowledge of the game.
Baseball lectures offer unique insights.
Exploring Independent Baseball
Don't overlook independent baseball. It's a great night out, reasonable, and the ballparks are often nice. The teams play for the love of the game.
Discover the hidden gems of independent baseball.
Visiting New Ballparks
Make an effort to visit a ballpark you've never been to. Bosse Field in Evansville, Indiana, opened in 1915 and is a historical gem. FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, Pennsylvania, is also worth a visit.
Experience the unique atmosphere of different ballparks.
Teaching Pickle
For coaches and parents, teach the kids how to play pickle. It develops various skills and is a fun activity for everyone.
Pickle adds a new dimension to baseball training.
Bringing Back Batting Practice
Bring back on-field batting practice before games. It fosters good bat to ball skills, teamwork, and competitiveness. Fans also enjoy it.
Recapture the essence of baseball with batting practice.
That's it, 27 fun ways to better enjoy the game; if you have any extra innings suggestions let us know at BallNine.