Why Do Baseball Players Always Spit?
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A lot of people think that baseball players spit because they are trying to be tough or cool.
The reality is that there are a few different reasons why baseball players spit.
A long-standing tradition
Baseball players have been spitting on the field since the game began. It is a long-standing tradition that is thought to date back to the 1800s. Players believe that spitting helps keep their mouths moist and prevents the build-up of saliva which can make it difficult to breathe through their nose. In addition, spitting helps keep their teeth clean and free from bacteria.
Some players also believe that spitting has a psychological effect on opponents. By deliberately spitting on the field, they are trying to intimidate and unnerve their opponents. Whatever the reason, spitting is an integral part of baseball and it doesn’t seem like it’s going to stop anytime soon.
The science behind the spit
When you think of baseball, you might not immediately think of saliva. But spitting is actually a very important part of the game. Players use saliva to keep their mouths moist, which helps them to better grip the baseball when they’re pitching. It also helps to keep dirt and other debris out of their mouths when they’re playing in the field.
But why do players seem to always be spitting? It turns out that there’s a scientific reason for it. When players are sweating, their bodies lose electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Spitting helps to replenish these electrolytes and keep players’ bodies hydrated. So the next time you see a player spitting on the field, don’t be grossed out – he’s just trying to perform his best!
How players use spitting to their advantage
Geoffrey Rapp, a sports law professor at the University of Cincinnati, told The Atlantic in 2018 that baseball has “a long and proud tradition” of expectoration. “It’s one of those things that’s just part of the game,” he said.
While it may not be pleasant to watch, there is a reason why players spit so often. Saliva helps keep the mouth moist, which prevents the lips from sticking to teeth or dental appliances. It also washes away food and bacteria that can cause bad breath. Spitting also helps players remove tobacco residue from their mouths.
Some players who have taken spitting to the extreme
Some players who have taken spitting to the extreme include Steve Balboni, who once spit tobacco juice so far that it hit a photographer in the face; Graig Nettles, who was caught on camera spitting tobacco juice into his glove before throwing a pitch; Goose Gossage, who would often spit tobacco juice on the ground while he was pitching; and Wade Boggs, who was known for taking spitting breaks between innings.
