Baseball is often called America’s favorite sport and is much more than a simple game. It’s a sport filled with rich history and deep-rooted traditions. Join us as we explore baseball’s most interesting facts and important details.
- In 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African American to play Major League Baseball in the modern era.
- A unique aspect of Major League Baseball is using a special mud to prepare baseballs for games.
- Fenway Park opened in 1912 and is the oldest Major League Baseball stadium still used today.
Robinson Broke the Color Barrier in Major League Baseball
In April 1947, Jackie Robinson made history as the first African American to play Major League Baseball in the modern era.
His debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers marked a significant moment in both sports and American civil rights history.
Special Mud is Used to Prepare Baseballs for MLB Games
Before every MLB game, baseballs are rubbed with a special type of mud known only as “Lena Blackburne Baseball Rubbing Mud,” which is taken from a secret location in New Jersey.
This practice helps pitchers get a better grip on the balls.
Tradition of Assiging Numbers of Players Started in 1907
The Reading Red Roses were the first team to use numbers on their uniforms to help fans identify the players during the game.
This practice, initiated by their manager Alfred Lawson, eventually became a standard across all sports.
First Major League World Series Was Held in 1903
The inaugural World Series took place in 1903, featuring the Boston Americans and the Pittsburgh Pirates. This event began what would become a beloved annual championship series in Major League Baseball.
Over 900,000 Baseballs Are Used Each MLB Season
During a typical MLB season, each game averages 90 to 120 baseballs, adding up to more than 900,000 baseballs used annually, not including postseason play.
Fastest Pitch is 105.1 mph
The fastest pitch in Major League Baseball history was 105.1 mph, demonstrating the incredible skill and power of professional pitchers.
Fenway Park is the Oldest MLB Stadium Still in Use
Opened in 1912, Fenway Park in Boston is the oldest stadium currently used in Major League Baseball. It is celebrated for its rich history and unique features, such as the Green Monster.
Ray Chapman’s Tragic Injury in 1920
In a tragic 1920 incident, Ray Chapman of the Cleveland Indians became the only MLB player to die from an injury sustained during a game, leading to increased safety measures, including the mandatory use of helmets.
