The game of baseball has been around for a long time and has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The only real difference between the game today and the game played in the early days is the introduction of new technology. And while the game has evolved with the times, one thing that has remained constant is the use of new baseballs for each game. But why don’t they reuse baseballs in MLB? This article will explore the reasons why.
Introduction
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in the United States and has been played for centuries. It’s a game that has remained largely unchanged since its inception, with the only real change being the introduction of new technology. Despite this, the use of new baseballs for each game has remained a constant. But why don’t they reuse baseballs in MLB?
Reasons for Not Reusing Baseballs
1. Quality and Durability
One of the primary reasons why MLB teams don’t reuse baseballs is because of their quality and durability. Baseballs are made to exacting standards and must meet certain criteria in order to be used in professional games. This includes the size, weight, and construction of the ball. Reusing a ball could cause it to become misshapen or damaged, which could affect the game.
2. Cost
Another reason why MLB teams don’t reuse baseballs is because of the cost. Baseballs are not cheap, and buying new ones for each game can add up quickly. This is especially true for teams that play a lot of games, such as those that make the playoffs. The cost of buying new baseballs for each game can be prohibitive for some teams, which is why they opt to use new ones instead.
3. Player Safety
Player safety is another factor that comes into play when it comes to why MLB teams don’t reuse baseballs. Baseballs that have been used for a long period of time can become worn or damaged, which could lead to injuries for players. This is why teams prefer to use new baseballs for each game, as it helps to ensure that players are not put at risk.
4. Consistency
Consistency is also a factor when it comes to why teams don’t reuse baseballs. Baseballs that have been used for a while can become misshapen or have other irregularities that could affect the game. This is why teams prefer to use new ones, as it helps to ensure that the game is played with the same type of baseball each time.
5. Sanitation
Sanitation is also a factor when it comes to why teams don’t reuse baseballs. Baseballs that have been used for a long period of time can become dirty or contain bacteria, which could be harmful to players. This is why teams opt to use new baseballs, as it helps to ensure that players are not exposed to any potential health risks.
Conclusion
The use of new baseballs for each game is a long-standing tradition in the MLB and is done for a variety of reasons. These include quality and durability, cost, player safety, consistency, and sanitation. While it could be argued that teams could save money by reusing baseballs, it’s clear that there are several benefits to using new ones. As such, it’s unlikely that teams will start reusing baseballs anytime soon.