It is obvious that both baseball and cricket belong to a family of games that involve the use of bat and balls. However, despite glaring similarities, there are a couple of differences between the two as well. Then there is also the debate of which is more popular, baseball or cricket? Let’s try to get some more insights.
Brief History of Baseball and Cricket
By most accounts of cricket and baseball history, the games may have originated somewhere in Europe and developed by Pilgrim Fathers who eventually brought the game to the Americas. This means that both cricket and baseball may have come from the same game.
When you look at some baseball facts, it is not difficult to discern that it has become a working man’s game enjoyed by a vast majority of people, while cricket has remained a preference of those in the upper society of countries that have been influenced by French or English cultures.
So despite mutating from the same game, baseball’s evolution has transformed it into a less delicate and extremely exciting sport enjoyed not only by a huge portion of the middle to lower class American population, but even those in the upper levels of society as well.
Comparison between Baseball and Cricket
When we look at cricket and baseball similarities, it can go beyond both sports using a ball and a bat. Both in fact are played on a field. But, these seeming similarities can also be the point of difference between the two sports.
The field used by baseball for example relies on a quadrant residing between foul lines. The baseball diamond has a fair territory of at least 100 thousand square feet although many Major League Baseball parks go up to 120 thousand square feet. For cricket, the shape is not really fixed. The size of the test grounds can vary from 175 thousand to 270 thousand square feet.
The issue of cricket vs baseball difficulty can also be pegged at the pitching distance of the sports. For cricket, it is about 22 yards. The pitcher’s mound in baseball is about 60.5 feet away from the rear of the home plate. What is interesting here is that before the pitcher’s mound was used, pitching in baseball was done from a rectangular box resembling that of cricket.
The level of difficulty also extends the manner of hitting. For cricket accumulating large runs and placement of balls is considered as excellent strategies. This is quite different in baseball where power hitting to produce runs or multiple bases is often used as winning strategy.
There is a huge debate on baseball vs cricket popularity considering that baseball is enjoyed mostly in the United States, the Caribbean, and some parts of Asia. Cricket on the other hand commands a following in Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, Australia, and some parts of Africa. This means that the 500 million worldwide fans of baseball can be easily dwarfed by the 2.5 billion fans of cricket.
However, as far as popularity is concerned, fan following may not be the only metric. Some contend that when it comes to baseball vs cricket, the experience that baseball brings would be a thousand times greater. This is presumably because of the tension and excitement that baseball delivers as the game goes through its innings not only through home runs and base hits, but also in the form of outs and double plays; some fans say something that a leisurely game of cricket cannot provide.
Equipment of Baseball and Cricket Use
There are some glaring differences between the equipment used for both sports. Even if you have the same basic things like gloves, bats, and balls, baseball equipment and cricket equipment may not be completely the same.
Bats – where baseball bats are thin and rounded, the one used for cricket has a thicker, flatter face, and is about four inches shorter.
Gloves–the ones for cricket are designed for hand protection and catching similar to hockey gloves unlike those in baseball. In cricket only the wicket keeper and batsmen wear gloves.
Pads – for baseball only the catcher wears pads as compared to cricket where leg and arm pads are fairly common sight.
You may have the talent and skills to play the game, but, without the proper equipment and gear, you will never improve your level of play.
Head on down to M^Powered Baseball and get high quality gear to play the game in virtually all levels today!
The Secret Hidden Baseball Trick Plays Hacks
Are you a baseball player? Have a dream to be a MLB Player one day? Well, in baseball, learning the proper throwing technique as well as becoming an effective hitter are extremely important. However, there are other things that can make a difference in the game aside from proper technique. If you have been a fan or a player for some time, then you know the value of trick plays. What are some of the baseball trick plays you can try? Let’s find out.
Introduction – Importance technique in playing baseball
It is understandable ball why trick plays are not part of the things being taught in baseball for beginners. This is because to take advantage of baseball trick plays, you will need to develop the proper baseball technique.
To pull off MLB trick plays, you will need to develop good throwing techniques including proper arm strength. This will involve practices in:
Kneeling and flicking;
Kneeling and throwing;
Throwing from the power position; and
Perfecting the follow through.
For hitting trick plays, some basics should be practiced and developed to become effective. These can include:
Minimize movement;
Keep your eye on the baseball;
Observe proper baseball bat grip;
Maintain consistent hand positioning;
Use a lighter bat;
Correct batting stance;
Achieve consistent contact; and
Control your swing and power;
These techniques will help you to become a better all-around baseball player. This includes executing trick plays. Just like NFL trick plays, the success in baseball requires a combination of timing and skills.
Some Baseball Tricks & Technique Explanation
Now that you know what you need to pull-off baseball trick plays, let’s take a look at some baseball tricks and how to do them.
CF Pick-Off
This play takes place with a runner on second and the CF slowly coming to pick him off. The shortstop and second must remain in their positions as the CF gets in place so that the pitcher can make the pitch to second.
The catcher can slyly make the signal for the pitcher to throw. A call-off should also be in place in case the other team sees it coming.
Phantom Catch
This is one of the baseball tricks with ball in hand. It works best when the runner is timing the catch of the OF. The OF will pretend to catch a fly ball above his head and in the last minute turn it into a basket catch. This will help the defense make an out at third.
Trick Windup
The fake windup can work with runners at second, third, or both. The pitcher’s feet should be on rubber and steps back using the wrong foot. As the base runners are faked off, the pitcher can pick them off.
Phantom Wild Pitch
Aggressive runners take advantage of every opening. This false opening can work with a runner on first attempting to steal. The catcher attempts to throw to first but pretends he can’t find the ball. As the runner rounds second base and possibly heads to third, an out can be made with the proper throw.
Double Suicide
Trick plays are not always done by the defense, there are also some baseball offensive trick plays. For this one, runners on second and third have to call a squeeze play. With the runner on second getting a huge lead and heads towards home, the third baseman thinks there is no play at home and throws to first. This allows the runner to go straight to home and score.
Find out more by watching baseball trick play 2018 highlights to see how it impacts the game.
To do the tricks need the best baseball equipment
You have the skills and you know the baseball trick plays, but, if you don’t have the best baseball equipment, you can still fall flat on your face. It is no secret that the best quality baseball equipment can help set you up for success.
It doesn’t matter if you buy from baseball equipment websites or from the store, the important thing is that your baseball bat and baseball gloves can help take your performance to the next level.
This means buy baseball equipment only from those that use premium wood, high quality leather, and rely on the best manufacturing methods.
With more than 50 years of high level competition baseball experience, you can never go wrong with M^Powered Baseball’s commitment to guaranteed excellence. Call us today!
Baseball Fun Facts: Test Your Knowledge with Interesting Questions
How did baseball originate?
Reference to baseball began as early as 1672 according to David Block. The actual origin of the game however has been surrounded by much controversy and debate as it is believed that it evolved from early folk games in Europe.
Even the name is believed to have come from earlier references like round ball, stool ball, goal ball, until it simply became what is now known as baseball.
How many players on a baseball team?
In a Major League team, the allowed number of players in an active roster is 25 with an expanded roster consisting of 40 players. The MLB however started allowing 26 active players to cover day-night doubleheaders, provided that the games have been scheduled with a 48 hours’ notice.
How many quarters in baseball?
There are no quarters in baseball, instead, the game is played over a period of nine innings that are subdivided into halves. The visiting team bats in an attempt to score at the first half of the inning with the home team on the defensive.
Once three outs is reached, the teams switch places with the home team going to bat.
How long does a game of baseball last?
For the MLB, usually a regular game would last for nine innings. However, if the score is tied at that point, extra innings will be played to determine the winner of the match. Unlike other sports, baseball does not play for the clock so the game normally continues until a winner is decided.
In general, games would last for roughly three hours.
How many games in a season of baseball?
With the expansion of the MLB in 1961, it settled for a schedule of 18 games for each of the nine rivals. This means that one season would have 162 games, something that has been preserved to date.
How to number baseball positions?
Each field position is numbered correspondingly:
Pitcher – #1
Catcher – #2
First Baseman – #3
Second Baseman – #4
Third Baseman – #5
Shortstop – #6
Left Fielder – #7
Center Fielder – #8
Right Fielder – #9
So if the third baseman makes a play by fielding the ball and throwing it to first to make an out, the play would be recorded as 5-3.
Which baseball position is the easiest?
Arguably, there are no easy positions in major league play. However, many would agree that the Right Field may be considered as one of the easiest because the ball is less likely to wound up in that area of the field.
What position is the hardest in baseball?
With all things considered, the catcher may be the hardest position in the game not only because of the amount of gear you have to wear, but also the level of concentration and mental preparedness needed to have an eye on the entire field; including constant communication with the pitcher.
How long is baseball season?
One MLB season usually lasts for approximately six months with a total of 2,430 games not including the postseason. Regular season runs from March to October with the postseason beginning early November.
How keep score in baseball?
Aside from knowing the number assigned to the positions, it is also important to be aware of the abbreviations to keep track of scoring in baseball games. The standard method includes:
Strikeout – K
Looking Strikeout – reverse K
Base on Balls or Walk – BB
Single Hit – 1B
Double – 2B
Triple – 3B
Homerun – HR
Flyout – F
Double Play – DP
When the runner scores, shade the entire diamond, but if it is only a single, 1B should be written outside the diamond with the line from home plate to first base darkened.
A struck out batter is represented by the letter K in the middle of the diamond, and if it’s the first out, the number 1 is likewise written and encircled.
If the play is made by the pitcher and thrown to first base, you should see 1-3 across the diamond.
How do baseball playoffs work?
For the MLB, it is the end of the 162 games of the regular season. There will be ten teams composed of five each from the National and American Leagues.
The format is a single game playoff between two wild card teams with two best-of-five series for the Division. This will be between the wild card winner and the winners of each division. The last leg would be the best-of-seven League Championship Series.
Everything boils down to the best-of-seven World Series between the American and National League champions.
Which seats are best at a baseball game?
There are a couple of seats worth considering like:
Couple of rows in the lower level behind the dugout – these keep you close to the action with a clear view of the infield players. You also get the chance to get game used balls since you are so close to the dugout.
Lower level seating away from the protective net – you get an amazing view of the field with great line of sight with a bonus of an overhang protection.
Club seats – undoubtedly one of the best seats in any stadium, you not only get a great view of everything, but it also comes with exclusive benefits.
Outfield seating – you get a clear view of everything with an excellent chance of catching a home run ball.
Upper level center seats – the entire field is in plain sight so you get to see every play from the infield and the outfield. A great thing to consider is that since these are extremely affordable, it gives you the luxury of enjoying the ball game with the entire family or your group of friends.
What is the baseball season in the USA?
For MLB, the 2018 season started on March 29 and will run up to September 30 before the postseason begins on October 2 with the World Series commencing on October 23 until October 31 should it reach Game 7.
What is velocity in baseball?
In baseball, this is a tool that is used for assessing pitches. It reflects the maximum speed of any given pitch from the moment it leaves the pitcher’s hand and crosses home plate.
The general rule is that the faster the velocity of the ball, the harder it will be to make a hit.
How to Care for Your Baseball Equipment
In baseball, there are only a few equipment that come to full use. But, these costs a lot of money and if not cared for properly, can really hamper the game of players. How can you take care of your baseball equipment to keep it fully functional and create some savings in return?
Baseball Gloves
Every player on the field uses a glove so it can be said that it is one of the most important piece of equipment of the game. Unfortunately, if not cared for, the leather, stitching, and other features of the glove can get worn out because of the wear and tear of the game. To care for your gloves:
Remove all traces of dirt on the outside after each game;
Rub down caked in dirt with a leather cleaner and soft rag;
Periodically moisten it with an approved glove conditioning oil;
It must be stored in a clean, cool, and dry area to prevent mold and mildew growth; and
Disinfect occasionally the insides of the glove to get rid of unpleasant smell and protect against molds.
Catcher’s Gear
Among all the positions in baseball, it is the catcher that has the most number of equipment. This means additional problems if care is not extended enough. How do you keep your catcher’s gear ready to use for any game?
Prevent dirt buildup by making sure that it is cleaned immediately after the game;
Hooks and straps are easy and cheap to replace, but if you don’t pay attention to it, the shin guard and chest piece may lose its effectivity. Check the hooks and straps regularly;
Before storing the chest piece in a cool and dry place, make sure that you air it out first to prevent mold growth; and
Periodically inspect the helmet and face mask for signs of cracks and the moment you spot one, replace it immediately for safety’s sake.
Baseball Bats
This is another piece of equipment that is extensively used during the game is the baseball bat. The problem with bats is that if it is not cared for, it can easily crack, the grip can come lose, or corrosion can form. To care for your baseball bats:
Wipe it down with rubbing alcohol after the game to eliminate bacteria, especially if you are using a wooden bat;
Wet wooden bats can get deformed or warped especially during a rainy game, so dry it off as fast as possible;
Rub wooden bats against each other with hard and even strokes to smoothen and condition it; and
The handle must always be positioned upwards when storing your baseball bats.
Baseballs
What would the game be without baseballs, right? Some of you may think that since these balls are relatively cheap, it isn’t worth the effort to spend time taking care of it. But, if you keep on changing balls, the amount would definitely bulk up.
The great news is that it isn’t that difficult to take care of baseballs. Cleaning simply involves a part of ammonia mixed with four parts of water. The ball should be wiped down completely with a soft rag after. What does this do? Aside from removing dirt and stains, it also sterilizes the ball to remove as much bacteria as possible.
Baseball Cleats
The last piece of equipment that must be given proper care would be the cleats. Being physically in touch with the ground, it is not surprising that mud and dirt will cling to it stubbornly. This means that cleaning can be very challenging. But this is how you can do it:
Knock off the stubborn dirt by banging the cleats together;
Use warm water to soak the cleats for at least five minutes to soften the dirt;
Get the mud and dirt out by using a stiff brush;
Soak a soft rag in dish soap and wipe off any dirt that is still clinging to the cleats; and
Rinse it off with a hose and towel dry.
These are some of the effective tips on how to take care for your baseball equipment. To make sure that you get the best possible equipment available, visit M^Powered Baseball today.
Fantasy Baseball: Choosing Pitchers in 2018
Playing Fantasy Baseball is an art, and at times a way to make some money. Depending on the league you play with the winnings can add up, so can the losses. Major League Baseball has long been a loved sport, even for the bystander. The vicarious thrills afforded those who indulge in this fantasy keep them hooked.
The past couple of seasons have been quite the adrenaline rush. With home runs racking up the points the offensive performance of most all of the teams have been outstanding. The thing Fantasy Baseball players want to keep a sharp eye on is the pitching line up. Perhaps you’ve been playing Fantasy Baseball for years and have your own methods for choosing players. This year it would be wise to make some adjustments to your strategy.
Trends to Be Aware of This Season:
One common method is to pick an all star pitcher. One who plays in the game a lot scoring you points. However, recently pitchers are being kept on the disabled list for longer periods of time. There is a new regulation that can keep a pitcher on the bench for up to 10 days. This 10 day disabled list effects the game time of these players. Word has it that the Dodgers used this ordinance last year as part of their pitching order strategy, enabling a six-pitcher starting rotation. More and more teams are favoring this method to protect their investments in key players.
Another consideration is the increasing strikeouts. This has been on the rise since 2014 and they are reaching higher number of strikeouts in less innings. Starters are pitching less innings as well. When you compare the 2015 season with the 2017 season, you can see that 27 out of 53 starting pitchers threw over 200 innings. In 2017 only 15 threw over 200 out of 34.
What Should You Do?
In the light of these changes, this season you should adjust your roster layout. When drafting pitchers, make an effort to secure at least two top rated pitchers. This will add some stability to your team. Look for a pitcher that plays around 150 innings or more. They should have at least one strikeout per inning. You can see the list below for some recommendations. Second, try to acquire pitchers that tend to throw high groundball rates. When the batter can’t make hard contact, the ball tends to move along the ground. The 2017 average for groundball, or no “hard-hit contact”, was 44 percent. You’ll want to draft players that will exceed that average. Some good ones to look at are: Sonny Gray, Lance Lynn and Zach Davies.
Be careful not to pick players that don’t meet these standards. It would be better for you to fill your roster with middle rated relievers that deliver these results and then rotate them in at the right time. This will also benefit you in ratio categories such as the ERA and the WHIP. Here are some good middle rated relief pitchers to take a look at: Jerry Blevins, Matt Albers, Carl Edwards Jr. and Chad Green.
The days of choosing superstar players just because they’re your hero is over. To be successful at Fantasy Baseball you need a methodical strategy that will achieve results. Meditate of the ideas presented in this article and customize your own method. Let’s “play ball”!
THE 10 BEST RATED STARTING PITCHERS
Dodgers – Clayton Kershaw
Nationals – Max Scherzer
Red Sox – Chris Sale
Indians – Corey Kluber
Mets – Noah Syndergaard
Nationals – Stephen Strasburg
Giants – Madison Bumgarner
Indians – Carlos Carrasco
Yankees – Luis Severino
Astros – Justin Verlander
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