Charming Chatter's First Baseball Game

It may be a shocker to hear, but I’m not the biggest sports fan around. The only time I watch football is during the Super Bowl, and I can't name a single hockey player. Nonetheless, sports are woven into American culture. Baseball is the pinnacle of "red, white, and blue" and "apple pie" Americana. I’ve watched the Sandlot more times than I can count and vividly remember learning about iconic players like Jackie Robinson, Babe Ruth, and Lou Gehrig in grade school. In spite of baseball's nationwide appeal, I never had the chance to watch a game, let alone attend one in person. For Father’s Day, that all changed. After attending a Mets game with my parents for the very first time, I instantly understood why so many people love baseball. More so than that, I realized that attending a live sporting event is incomparable to watching it on T.V. You hear the crowd’s energy, breathe in the sweet smell of ice cream, feel the warm sun on your arms, and enjoy the company of those you love dearly. You won't see me rocking head-to-toe merch any time soon, but I certainly left this experience all the more open-minded.

The drive to Citi Field was filled with my butchered rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" while the GPS rerouted a million times. We eventually arrived at the stadium, snagged a spot in the parking lot maze, and headed inside. I was quickly overwhelmed by a sea of orange and blue that bobbed with every passing fan. The age demographic was truly astounding, with attendees ranging from toddlers to gray-haired individuals exhibiting equal enthusiasm. You couldn’t help but immerse yourself in the eccentricity.

Since it was my first baseball game, I had a checklist to complete. I rightfully ignored the salad bar and ordered a classic hot dog with Nathan's crinkle-cut fries. After eating and taking our seats, I looked down at the field and saw the two opposing sides scatter and take their positions. I don't know much about the rules of the game but tried my best to blend in. I shouted when everyone else shouted, cheered to the player’s walk-up music, and smiled as I saw my dad enjoying the game just as much as I was. Of course, we couldn't leave without trying the iconic Cracker Jack popcorn.

Although the Mets lost 8-7 to the St. Louis Cardinals, the game remains an experience I will cherish forever. I must admit, at times, baseball is a little slow-paced. I also ducked more times than I can count because of the baseballs that flew over the net. Regardless, it was the perfect way to spend Father’s Day and lived up to the excitement I’d only seen in movies. All you need in life is family, simple food, and good old American baseball.