Baseball is a beloved sport enjoyed by millions worldwide, and the players who compete in it must be in peak physical condition to perform at their best. As such, athletes often turn to various tactics in order to gain a competitive edge, such as weightlifting and nutrition. One of the more unusual tactics that some baseball players use, however, is to put something in their lip. Read on to find out more about what baseball players have in their lip and why they do it.
Why Baseball Players Put Something in Their Lip
The practice of putting something in one’s lip has been common in baseball for decades. It is believed that the practice originated in the 1970s, when professional players such as Pete Rose and Steve Garvey began putting tobacco in their bottom lip. This was done in order to give the player a slight increase in concentration and focus, as well as a boost in energy. The practice has since evolved to include non-tobacco items such as sunflower seeds and chewing gum, though the purpose remains the same.
Health Concerns of Putting Something in Your Lip
The use of tobacco is of particular concern for health professionals and organizations. Chewing tobacco is known to cause a variety of health problems, such as an increased risk of oral cancer, heart disease, and stroke. The use of chewing tobacco is also addictive, and its use can lead to a physical and psychological dependence. As such, it is strongly discouraged by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In addition to the health risks associated with tobacco use, the use of other items in the lip can also lead to oral health problems. Sunflower seeds, for example, can cause damage to the teeth if they are chewed excessively. Chewing gum can also lead to cavities if it is not properly disposed of after use.
Benefits of Putting Something in Your Lip
Despite the health concerns associated with the practice, there are some benefits to putting something in your lip. Many players report that it helps them to concentrate and focus on the task at hand, which can lead to improved performance. The boost in energy that some players experience is also an advantage, as it can help them to stay sharp throughout a long game. Finally, the practice can also serve as a way to relieve stress, as the act of chewing can help to soothe the nerves.
What Baseball Players Put in Their Lip
The most common thing baseball players put in their lip is tobacco. Chewing tobacco is often preferred, as it is easier to keep in the lip than a cigarette. Sunflower seeds and bubble gum are also popular items, as they are easy to keep in the lip and do not present the same health risks as tobacco. Some players may also choose to put things like mints or gum drops in their lip, though these items do not provide the same boost in energy or concentration as other items.
Conclusion
Putting something in one’s lip is a practice that has been common in baseball for decades. The purpose of this practice is to gain a competitive edge by increasing energy levels and concentration. However, there are health risks associated with the use of tobacco, as well as other items such as sunflower seeds. Despite this, there are some benefits to the practice, such as improved concentration and a boost in energy. Ultimately, it is up to the individual player to decide whether the risks are worth the potential rewards.