Baseball Across the Pond: A Tale of Tea and Two-Seam Fastballs
You might know London for its iconic landmarks, pints down the pub, and perhaps a spot of rain (okay, a lot of rain). But what about baseball? Believe it or not, America's favorite pastime has taken a cheeky transatlantic trip to the Big Smoke a few times now. Buckle up, cricket lovers, because we're about to hit a homerun into the history of MLB in London!
From Big Ben to Big Bats: How Many Times Has MLB Played There?
Three strikes and you're out! That's the current count for Major League Baseball games played in London. Here's the rundown:
- 2019: The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, those age-old rivals, became the pinstriped pioneers, playing the first-ever regular season MLB games in Europe. Imagine cheering for a home run while sipping afternoon tea – fancy, eh?
- 2023: The Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, originally scheduled for 2020 (thanks a bunch, COVID), finally got their shot at a London showdown.
- Just this month, June 2024! The New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies battled it out, proving baseball can be just as exciting as a spot of dodgeball (well, maybe).
So, is London Becoming a Baseball Hotspot?
Well, it's not quite replacing Yankee Stadium just yet. But with a renewed partnership between MLB and London, there's a good chance we'll see more baseball across the pond in 2026 and beyond. Who knows, maybe one day we'll see a team nicknamed the "London Lobsters" or the "Fish and Chips Fighters" (don't judge my naming skills).
FAQ: You Asked, We Answered (Briefly)
How to watch an MLB game in London? Keep an eye out for announcements about the next London Series. Tickets get snatched up fast, so be prepared to act quicker than you can say "bangers and mash" (a delicious British dish, not a baseball term...yet).
How to play baseball? While we can't give you a full rundown here, basics involve hitting a ball with a bat, running around bases, and fielding like a superhero. YouTube tutorials are your friend!
How different is baseball from cricket? Both involve balls, bats, and cheers from the crowd, but there are plenty of differences. Think of baseball as cricket's fast-paced, American cousin.
How expensive are tickets to an MLB game in London? Prices vary depending on the seats and the matchup, but expect them to be comparable to other major sporting events in London.
How many hot dogs can you eat at a baseball game? This, my friend, is a question only you can answer. But seriously, pace yourself.
