Baseball Across the Pond: A Tale of Two Teams in Blighty!
Fancy a bit of kerfuffle with a rounders twist? That's right, folks, Major League Baseball made its grand return to jolly old England this year! But which teams were brave enough to swap hot dogs for bangers and mash (though, let's be honest, they probably had both)?
The Contenders: A Clash of the Titans (Well, Not Quite)
This year, we saw a battle for bragging rights between two National League East rivals: the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets. The Phillies, currently sporting a record that would make Rocky Balboa proud, faced off against the Mets, who are...well, let's just say they're bringing the drama, on and off the field.
The Games: Did the Brits Embrace Baseball or Say "Cricket, Mate?"
The series took place at the iconic London Stadium, which usually houses West Ham United's football (soccer for you Yanks) team. Let's be honest, baseball bats and pints go together about as well as crumpets and ketchup, but hey, the Brits gave it a good go! The atmosphere was electric, with a healthy dose of confusion about why people kept throwing things back on the field (it wasn't a pub brawl, after all!).
Who Came Out on Top? Did Anyone Understand the Rules?
The series was a nail-biter, with each team taking a game. Whether the fans fully grasped the intricacies of a balk or a double play, they sure seemed to enjoy the crack of the bat and the thrill of a close game.
How To...FAQs
Intrigued by this whole baseball-in-London business? Here's a quick guide for the curious:
How to Watch an MLB Game in London?
Keep an eye out for announcements about the next London Series! Tickets usually sell out fast, so be prepared to act quicker than a cheetah on Red Bull.
How to Understand Baseball (Even a Little)?
Think cricket, but with round bats and more running around the bases (and way fewer tea breaks).
How to Pronounce "Phillies" Like a True Fan?
It's "Fill-eez," not "Fill-ees." Trust us, you don't want to sound like a right git.
How to Enjoy a Baseball Game (Even if You Don't Know the Rules)?
Hot dogs, beer, good company, and the chance to yell "oi!" at the umpire (though maybe not too loudly).
How to Convince Your Mates to Come to a Baseball Game with You?
Promise them pints and a chance to see some seriously athletic dudes in tight pants. That usually does the trick.