Baseball has always been a game that is steeped in tradition. Some of these traditions, such as the seventh-inning stretch, have been around for decades. One of the oldest and most controversial traditions in baseball is the use of chewing tobacco. Chewing tobacco has been part of baseball culture since the mid-1800s, and even today it continues to be a prominent part of the game. In this article, we’ll explore why chewing tobacco is so big in baseball, the potential health risks associated with it, and what measures are being taken to discourage its use.
History of Chewing Tobacco in Baseball
Chewing tobacco first became popular among baseball players in the mid-1800s. It was seen as a way to pass the time on the long bus rides and train rides from town to town. Players also believed that it improved their performance on the field, as it was thought to help them stay alert and focused. As the game of baseball grew, so did the popularity of chewing tobacco. By the early 1900s, it had become a widely accepted part of the game.
Why is Chewing Tobacco Popular in Baseball?
There are several reasons why chewing tobacco is still popular among baseball players today. First, it is seen as a way to bond with fellow players and show camaraderie. Many players feel that chewing tobacco brings them closer together, and it has become a shared ritual among teammates.
Second, many players believe that chewing tobacco helps them stay alert and focused during the game. While there is no scientific evidence to back up this claim, it has become part of the culture of the game.
Finally, many players view chewing tobacco as a way to cope with stress and anxiety. It is a way for them to relax and take their mind off the pressures of playing a professional sport.
Potential Health Risks of Chewing Tobacco
Unfortunately, there are several potential health risks associated with chewing tobacco. These include an increased risk of oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay. Additionally, chewing tobacco can cause nicotine addiction, which can lead to a variety of physical and psychological health issues.
What Measures Are Being Taken to Discourage Chewing Tobacco?
In recent years, Major League Baseball has implemented several measures to discourage the use of chewing tobacco. In the 2011 collective bargaining agreement, a ban on the use of smokeless tobacco was implemented in all minor league ballparks. Additionally, many teams have implemented their own policies that prohibit the use of chewing tobacco in their ballparks.
In addition to these measures, Major League Baseball has also taken steps to educate players about the potential health risks associated with chewing tobacco. Teams now provide information and resources to help players quit chewing tobacco and lead healthier lives.
Conclusion
Chewing tobacco has been a part of baseball for over a century. It is seen as a way to bond with teammates, stay alert and focused on the field, and cope with stress. However, there are several potential health risks associated with chewing tobacco, such as an increased risk of cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Major League Baseball has taken steps to discourage the use of chewing tobacco, including a ban on smokeless tobacco in all minor league ballparks. The league has also taken steps to educate players about the potential health risks associated with chewing tobacco and provide resources to help them quit.