Do we actually know baseball history? “What is more American than Baseball, Hot Dogs and Apple Pie?” This popular phrase is one we hear often but is it correct? You may learn something new about baseball history as you read on.
Stay informed: Sign up for e-mail updates—->>>>
Is Baseball an American Sport?
Baseball History
You may have heard that a young man named Abner Doubleday invented the game known as baseball in Cooperstown, New York, during the summer of 1839. Doubleday then went on to become a Civil War hero, while baseball became America’s beloved national pastime.
Actually that story is not true. Doubleday never claimed to have anything to do with baseball. It turns out that the real history of baseball came from games resembling baseball dating back to the 18th century. Early American colonists played two of these game which originated in England. They are rounders(a children’s game) and cricket.
In 1907, a special commission created by the sporting goods magnate, A.J. Spalding came up with the Doubleday origin story. Cooperstown businessmen and major league officials actually used this story and established the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in the village.
First American Baseball Team
The first official game of baseball in the United States took place in June 1846 in Hoboken, New Jersey. In 1869, the Cincinnati Red Stockings became America’s first professional baseball club. In 1871, the National Association of Professional Base Ball Players was established as the sport’s first “major league.” According to history.com
America’s Pastime
Since its beginning in 1846, baseball has been enjoyed and talked about as “America’s Pastime.” Through wars and economic depressions, baseball was always there to comfort and entertain Americans. Baseball is big business in America, and is enjoyed by millions around the world.
Youth Baseball Today
Baseball is considered a Great American sport today. Children begin playing baseball when they are barely able to catch a ball or hold a bat. Little League baseball was founded in 1939, Little League Baseball and Softball is the world’s largest organized youth sports program, with millions of players. Both boys and girls enjoy playing baseball from the time they are small up through their high school and sometimes college years.
Major League Baseball Today
Today Major League Baseball is very big business. Players from days gone by would not believe if they could see it today. Recruiting actually takes place when they are still in middle school.
According to Forbes, “The math becomes more challenging as prices increase. Our numbers show the average MLB team is worth $1.645 billion, 7% more than last year. Average revenue and operating income (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) for MLB’s 30 teams were $315 million and $29 million, respectively, for the 2017 season. Revenue was up 4.7% from 2016 mainly due to more television, premium seating and sponsorship money. Meanwhile, operating income was down 17% primarily because of more spending on marketing, player development and analytics.
There should be no question that even though it’s origins are questioned, baseball is literally an American sport. Along with hot dogs and apple pie, baseball provides comfort and enjoyment for millions.
Response Magic