Crackin' Open a Cold One (and Catching a Baseball Game) in the UK
So, you've gotten a hankering for America's pastime, but you're a pond-hopping Brit across the Atlantic. Fear not, baseball enthusiast (or should we say, enthusiast-to-be?), because catching a game in the UK is easier than downing a lukewarm cuppa tea (which, let's be honest, is a crime against all things proper).
How To Watch Baseball In The Uk |
Calling All Cricket Connoisseurs: Baseball's Your New Cousin
Now, some might say baseball and cricket are about as different as double-decker buses and monster trucks. But fret not, cricket fans! Both involve a ball, a bat, and a healthy dose of cheering (hopefully for your team). Plus, with baseball, there's the added bonus of hot dogs (essential for any sporting event, really).
Goggle Up, Buttercup: Here's How to See Some Baseball Action
Alright, enough with the flowery metaphors. Here's the real deal on how to snag a game:
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
1. Dig In with BT Sport: They're the official broadcasters of MLB in the UK, so you'll find a good chunk of games on their channels. Just grab a subscription and settle in for some homeruns (that's when the ball goes way out of the park, not a literal home run... unless you're watching from your backyard, in which case, good on you!).
2. Don't Forget About Discovery+: This streaming service is another option, offering TNT Sports which also shows some MLB games. Think of it as your backup pitcher, ready to step in when BT Sport throws a curveball (a tricky pitch, by the way).
Tip: Take notes for easier recall later.
3. Go Global, Go MLB.tv: This is the official Major League Baseball streaming service. You might get blacked-out games depending on what BT Sport is showing, but it's a great option for catching every single game, no matter the time difference (which can be a doozy, mind you).
4. Apple TV+ Steps Up to the Plate: They've got a slice of the MLB pie too, showing a select few games each week. So, if you're already rocking an Apple TV+ subscription, you might get lucky and catch a game or two.
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Bonus Tip: Download the MLB app! It's a fantastic way to stay up-to-date on scores, stats, and even lets you set alerts for your favourite teams.
Frequently Asked Questions (The "Cricket to Baseball" Crash Course Edition)
How to tell the players apart? They all wear helmets and gloves, so it can be tricky. Look for the numbers on their jerseys – that's their unique identifier (kind of like a cricket cap, but less fancy).
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
How long does a baseball game last? Buckle up, it can take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 hours. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint (unlike that time you accidentally ran for the bus).
What's with all the chewing? It's not because they forgot their lunch. Sunflower seeds and chewing gum are popular choices for players, some say it helps them focus.
Is it rude to leave early? Unlike cricket, where it's practically expected, baseball fans generally stick around until the final out (the last play of the game). But hey, if you gotta go, you gotta go (just don't make a scene about it).
Can I yell at the umpire? Probably best not to. Umpires are the referees of the game, and they have the final say (a bit like the big cheese in cricket, but hopefully less controversial).
So there you have it! With a bit of know-how and maybe a cheeky pint, you'll be a baseball pro in no time. Now get out there and enjoy the game!