Baseball is a beloved sport, and it has been around for centuries. One interesting tradition that has become a part of the game is that of players chewing tobacco while on the field. This has been a long-standing tradition in the sport, and it is something that many players still do today. But why do baseball players always chew? In this article, we’ll take a look at the various reasons why they do so.
The History of Chewing in Baseball
The tradition of chewing tobacco in baseball dates back to the late 1800s. Players would chew tobacco to help pass the time during long games and to help them focus on the game. It was also believed that chewing tobacco could help improve a player’s performance. Eventually, chewing tobacco became a part of the game and a tradition that many players followed.
The Psychological Benefits of Chewing
There are several psychological benefits associated with chewing tobacco. For starters, chewing can help players stay focused on the game and can help reduce stress and anxiety. Chewing can also help players stay alert and can give them a psychological edge over their opponents.
In addition, the act of chewing can help players stay in the present moment. This is especially important during the game, when players need to be able to stay focused and not get distracted by the other things happening around them. Chewing can also provide players with a sense of comfort and familiarity, as well as a feeling of being in control.
The Physical Benefits of Chewing
In addition to the psychological benefits of chewing, there are also some physical benefits associated with it. For example, chewing can help to increase saliva production, which can help to reduce dry mouth. This can be especially helpful for players who may be playing in hot and humid conditions. Chewing also helps to increase blood flow to the mouth, which can help to keep players’ mouths hydrated.
Finally, chewing can also help to reduce tension in the jaw and neck muscles. This can help players to stay relaxed and focused during the game, which can help to improve their performance.
The Drawbacks of Chewing
Although there are some benefits associated with chewing tobacco, there are also some drawbacks that should be considered. For starters, chewing tobacco can lead to addiction and can be harmful to one’s health. It can also lead to a decrease in lung capacity, which can be detrimental to a player’s performance.
In addition, chewing tobacco can lead to bad breath and stained teeth. This can be off-putting for both players and fans alike. Finally, chewing can be a distraction for some players, as it can take their focus away from the game.
Conclusion
Chewing tobacco has been a part of the game of baseball for many years, and it is something that many players still do today. There are several benefits associated with chewing, such as increased focus and relaxation, as well as physical benefits like increased saliva production and improved blood flow to the mouth. However, there are some drawbacks associated with chewing, such as addiction, health risks, and distraction. Ultimately, it is up to each individual player to decide whether or not they want to chew while playing the game.