Baseball is one of the most beloved sports in America, and its history dates back to the mid-19th century. Over the years, there have been many interesting facts that have emerged from this sport. Here are five fun facts about Major League Baseball (MLB) that you may not know:
Introduction
1. The First Professional Baseball Team Was Formed in 1869
The first professional baseball team was formed in 1869 by the Cincinnati Red Stockings. They were a completely professional team, which meant they did not rely on other sources of income like many amateur teams at the time. This marked the beginning of professional baseball as we know it today.
2. Unusual Records in MLB History
There are many unusual records in MLB history that might surprise you. For example, the longest game ever played lasted for eight hours and six minutes! It took place between the Boston Braves and Brooklyn Dodgers in 1920. Another surprising record is that the shortest player in MLB history was Eddie Gaedel, who stood just 3 feet tall and wore a uniform with the number “1/8” during his only appearance in 1951.
3. Famous Players and Their Quirks
Many famous players throughout MLB history had their own unique quirks. For instance, Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio always slept with his glove underneath his pillow before every game. Babe Ruth also had an odd superstition – he would never step on any base when running around them. And then there’s pitcher Turk Wendell, who refused to brush his teeth or shave while on road trips because he believed it brought him bad luck.
4. Strange Rules and Traditions
There are several strange rules and traditions in MLB that fans might find fascinating. One such tradition is the seventh-inning stretch, where fans stand up and sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” Another rule is the designated hitter (DH), which allows a non-pitching position player to bat instead of the pitcher. Finally, there’s the unwritten rule against throwing at someone’s head, even though it’s technically allowed within the rules of the game.
Conclusion
These are just a few examples of the many interesting facts and stories surrounding Major League Baseball. Whether you’re a diehard fan or simply enjoy watching the occasional game, these tidbits will add some extra excitement to your viewing experience. So next time you tune into a game, keep an eye out for any of these fun facts coming to life right before your eyes.