Baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes, and it’s not uncommon to see players chewing on something while they play. So what do they chew on and then spit out? Let’s take a closer look at the various items that baseball players chew on and spit out during a game.
Chewing Tobacco
One of the most popular items that baseball players chew on and spit out is chewing tobacco. Chewing tobacco is a form of smokeless tobacco that is usually packaged in pouches or plugs. It is then placed between the cheek and the gum, where it releases nicotine into the bloodstream. This can give the user a buzz and help them stay focused during a long game.
Chewing tobacco has been popular among baseball players since the 1800s and is still used by many players today. While it may have some benefits, it also comes with some serious risks. Chewing tobacco can lead to nicotine addiction, oral cancer, and gum disease, among other health issues. For this reason, Major League Baseball has banned the use of smokeless tobacco in the dugout and on the field.
Gum
Another popular item that baseball players chew on and spit out is gum. Chewing gum can help players stay focused on the game and keep their mouths moist. It also helps keep their teeth clean and can freshen their breath.
Gum has been a part of baseball games since the 1930s, when the first bubble gum was introduced. Today, many players chew on sugar-free varieties of gum, which can help keep their breath fresh without the added sugar. While gum is generally considered safer than chewing tobacco, it can still lead to jaw problems if it is chewed too vigorously.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are another popular item that baseball players chew on and spit out. Sunflower seeds are a great source of energy and they can help keep the players alert during a long game. They are also relatively harmless, so they can be enjoyed without any of the risks associated with chewing tobacco.
Sunflower seeds have been a part of baseball since the early 1900s, when players would spit out the shells onto the field. Today, players still enjoy sunflower seeds, although they are usually eaten in the dugout rather than spat out onto the field.
Grains of Rice
Another item that some baseball players chew on and spit out is grains of rice. This is a traditional practice that can be traced back to the Edo period in Japan. Baseball players would chew on grains of rice to keep their mouths moist and to help them focus on the game.
Today, this practice is still used by some players, although it is not as common as chewing gum or sunflower seeds. While it may help players stay focused, there is some concern that it could cause choking if the pieces are too large.
Conclusion
Baseball players chew on and spit out a variety of items while they’re on the field. The most popular items are chewing tobacco, gum, sunflower seeds, and grains of rice. While some of these items can help the players stay focused, they can also come with some serious risks. For this reason, Major League Baseball has banned the use of smokeless tobacco in the dugout and on the field.