Baseball: Seventh Inning Stretch

We went to a baseball game with our daughter and her family on Father’s Day. It was great weather: sunshine, blue skies with just a few clouds, and a slight breeze to give relief from the 80-degree temps.

Peekaboo with Otto. Photo by S. St. George

Take me out to the ballgame,

Take me out with the crowd.

Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack,

I don’t care if I never get back.

Let me root, root, root, for the home team,

If they don’t win, it’s a shame.

For its one, two, three strikes, you’re out,

At the old ball game.

Those words were penned in 1908 by Jack Norworth and published by York Music Company. The song has been played during the seventh inning stretch at nearly every ballpark in the country ever since.

That's just the chorus of the song. The stanzas detail a young man asking a young lady on a date to see a movie. She accepts but only if they go to a baseball game instead. She knows the first name of every home team player and has memorized their stats. She has baseball fever.

I don't know if I have baseball fever, but I always enjoy the games whether in person, on television or on the radio. I like the anticipation that builds as fans find their seats, laden down with peanuts, popcorn, hot dogs, ice cream, and their favorite beverages.

Fantastic rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner and O, Canada. Photo by S. St. George

I love the hush that falls over the crowd when the national anthem is sung and the roar of the crowd when the umpire yells, "steerick!" But stay aware, those foul balls can speed toward you in a second! The crack of the bat, the slap of the ball into a leather mitt and the roar of the crowd all yell "summer" to me.

"My, oh my". "Swung on and belted". "Holy smokes." These are some of my favorite quotes from Dave Niehaus, the iconic Mariners announcer. You knew what was happening when he uttered those words with his trademark exuberance. A phrase that sticks with me to this day from when my own kids played t-ball was "we want a pitcher, not a belly itcher." Decidedly not the same impact as Dave's quotes. We've continued the love of the game while watching our grandson and his friends learn the rules of the game and how to be good sports as he starts in t-ball.

We watched several players hit home runs, slide to steal a base, and celebrate a great play with their teammates. Our granddaughter was mesmerized by the action on the field, preferring it even to the Dippin' Dots we got for her to combat the heat.

If you have a chance this summer, head to the local ballpark with the family. Or participate in a community or church game. It's wonderful entertainment, a chance to catch up with loved ones and friends outdoors, and just plain fun!

Do you like to watch baseball games? Who is your favorite team? Send me an email or comment on social media.