1. 300,000 to 1: The Risk of Being Hit by a Baseball
With a staggering 300,000 to 1 chance of being hit by a baseball, it's no surprise that between 2012 and 2019, over 800 people have been injured by foul balls. This is according to a report released by Major League Baseball, which found that the majority of these injuries were sustained by fans sitting in the lower seating areas. While the risk of being hit by a baseball is incredibly low, it's important to be aware of the potential danger and take the necessary precautions when attending a game.
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Advertisement2. The Birth of Baseball
On June 19, 1845, the first ever baseball game was played in New York City. This historic event marked the beginning of a beloved sport that has been enjoyed by millions of people around the world for over 175 years. The game was played between the New York Knickerbockers and the New York Nine, and the Knickerbockers won 23-1. This game is credited with establishing the rules and regulations that are still used today in the game of baseball.
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3. The Incredible Career of Cal Hubbard
Cal Hubbard is an incredible athlete, the only person to be inducted into both the Baseball and Football Hall of Fame. He was a professional baseball and football player, umpire, and referee. He played in the Major Leagues for the Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Giants from 1927 to 1933, and was an umpire in the National League from 1936 to 1951. He was also a referee in the National Football League from 1936 to 1951, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963. His incredible career has earned him a place in both the Baseball and Football Hall of Fame, a feat that no other athlete has achieved.
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4. Forbes Field: The Home of the Pittsburgh Pirates
Forbes Field in Pittsburgh was the first baseball stadium to be built in the United States, opening its doors in 1909. It was the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates for over 60 years, hosting some of the most iconic moments in baseball history, including Bill Mazeroski's walk-off home run in the 1960 World Series. The stadium was demolished in 1971, but its legacy lives on in the hearts of baseball fans everywhere.
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Advertisement5. The Evolution of the Rules of Baseball
Since its inception in 1877, the rules of baseball have been constantly evolving. The first rule book was issued that year, and every year since then has seen changes to the rules, ensuring that the game remains fresh and exciting for players and fans alike. From the introduction of the designated hitter in 1973 to the implementation of instant replay in 2014, the rules of baseball have been adapted to keep up with the times and ensure that the game remains as competitive and entertaining as possible.
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6. America's National Pastime
Baseball is a beloved pastime in the United States, so much so that it is often referred to as the national sport. It has been a part of American culture since the mid-1800s, when the first professional team was established in 1869. Since then, baseball has become a beloved tradition for many families, with generations of fans attending games and cheering on their favorite teams. It is a game that brings people together, and its popularity continues to grow each year.
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7. Nolan Ryan: The King of the Ks
Nolan Ryan is a legendary figure in the world of baseball, having had the longest career in the sport's history. Spanning an incredible 27 years, Ryan's career began in 1966 with the New York Mets and ended in 1993 with the Texas Rangers. During his time in the majors, Ryan achieved numerous accolades, including a record seven no-hitters, an MLB record 5,714 strikeouts, and eight All-Star selections. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999.
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Advertisement8. Doc Medich: Medical Student & Pitcher!
Doc Medich, a medical student and pitcher for the Texas Rangers, was able to put his medical training to good use when a fan suffered a heart attack at a game. Medich was able to quickly assess the situation and administer life-saving medical care, ultimately saving the fan's life. His quick thinking and medical expertise were a testament to the importance of having a doctor on the field.
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9. The Shortest Major League Baseball Player in History
Carl Edward is the shortest major league baseball player in history, standing at an astonishing three feet and seven inches tall. His remarkable stature has earned him a place in the record books, and his legacy will live on for years to come. Despite his diminutive size, Edward was a talented player, and his skill and determination earned him a place in the major leagues. His career was short-lived, but his impact on the game of baseball will never be forgotten.
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10. Baseball Hall of Fame Honors All-Time Greats
In 1935, the National Baseball Hall of Fame was established in New York to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beloved sport of baseball. This hall of fame serves as a tribute to the greatest players, managers, and executives in the history of the game, and is a must-see destination for any fan of the sport. It features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive displays, that provide an in-depth look at the history of baseball. Visitors can also explore the Hall of Fame's library, which houses a vast collection of books, magazines, and other materials related to the sport.
