It's coming! Yes, it is! Thomas Boswell reminds us in the Washington Post that the traditional first notice has just gone out: "Pitchers and catchers report to spring training." The first exhibition game, he notes, is, believe it or not, just eleven days away. Yes, I can see snow out the window. It's melting fast.
I think what makes baseball special is that players have to think. The shortstop, who may have to field a ground ball--does he throw to second in hope of a double play or throw to first for the sure out there--and so on.
I like football too--a graceful run or pass reception can be very moving, but there's something special about baseball for me.
One thing I know--it has nothing to do with where I grew up. That was Chicago, home of the Cubs--lovable losers is a local nickname. The Cubs last won the pennant in 1945, more than half a century ago, last won the World Series, the grand prize--in 1908--more than--that's right, a century ago.
But whatever it is, it works for me.
No comments:
Post a Comment