One of my favorite aspects of baseball is the culture and history associated with the game. It is a game that is passed down through generations. There is a respect and honor and even a reverence of the game. The game cherishes our country, Presidents, our troops, and brings us together. I would be lying if I said I don't tear up a bit during the opening ceremonies, first pitch, and singing of the national anthem. There is such a rich history in baseball. When you take part in a game, you are taking part in our pastime. If your not following me on this, watch Ken Burns' Baseball from start to finish and you'll catch up.
With all that said, I was honestly a little shocked today. The Rangers have some GREAT fans. Fans who truly love the game and the team they for which they cheer. It all started when I walked past my 5th Hamilton jersey while walking to the Temple. We all know that there better be some duct tape on that jersey, or you shouldn't be wearing it. It appeared as though these folks were busting them out of their closet to wear for the 3rd time in 4 years, just as one would do with the green "Kiss Me I'm Irish" shirt on St. Patty's Day. I'm all good with a casual fan, but it felt just like St. Patty's Day... an excuse to drink a bunch at 10 am in the morning.
As I made it inside the park on this most holy of baseball days, I was shocked how little people were inside watching batting practice. By the first pitch, people were packed in and the game was on. That's when the musical chairs started. I had a chunk of people around me that would get up for a beer and were gone for half an inning at a time... over and over again. Not only did they miss half the game, but I missed a bunch of plays everytime we all had to stand up to let them back in their seats. I've been to plenty of games and I'm used to the casual fan, but this was different. I had never seen so many "fans" at one time drunk and paying zero attention to the game.
Again, I get it. I know not everyone is watching every Ranger game, knows all the players including minor league call-ups, and reads the box score the next morning. However, there is a great game being played, with great culture and history. By all means, have fun, but please respect the game. It's Opening Day of Baseball... not St. Patrick's Day.
(Photo from wfaa.com)
Rangers Apologized for the gathering of trash:
"The Rangers certainly regret & apologize for the trash that accumulated on the Rangers Fans statue at the home plate gate. With thousands of fans, many of whom had been tailgating, entering the park 30 minutes before game time, large amounts of cans, bottles, & other items that are prohibited in the park, accumulated at all entrances. Many calls came into the maintenance dpt. during this time, & the club utilized a many employees to continually remove the trash. The debris on the statue was removed in a timely manner but it should not have been allowed to be placed there in the first place. The Rangers Fans statue is a cherished component of the ballpark & the club will make certain this situation does not occur in the future." @Rangers twitter account
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