Five things I love about baseball

I have a new book coming out next week, I've mentioned here a few times (and probably will a few more times ... because I'm self-published and have to do all my own marketing). It's the first in baseball romance series. If you've followed my blog for any length of time, it probably isn't surprising that I incorporated baseball into one of my novels. And in fact made it a major focus point. (Maybe someday, I'll write one with beer in it.)  It's appropriate for me ... and appropriate that it's a romance. You've heard that "Moneyball" quote, right?

It's absolutely true. There are so many romantic things about baseball. And so much to love, honestly. Here are a few of my favorite things about the game.

A major league debut.

Watching a young player take his first turn at bat in a major league game is exciting. Even if you know nothing about that player, you can only imagine how long he's been dreaming of that moment. And no matter how the at bat (or his career) turns out, no one can take that moment from him. (The video above is from the impressive debut of the Rangers' Nomar Mazara.)

///////

A strike 'em out-throw 'em out double play.

 So sexy.

///////

A pitchers' duel.

I enjoy home runs as much as the next person, but there's something special about two pitchers battling it out. A low-scoring game with tons of strikeouts is a masterful thing to watch.

///////

A late-inning rally.

There are nine innings and three outs per inning for a reason. Use them all. You have to love the spirit of a team that never gives up. By the way, when it comes to rally caps or other rally strategies -- it's only weird if it doesn't work.

///////

Walk-off celebrations.

There's so much joy in that moment. That's when you remember it's a game. And the men on the field are really nothing but overgrown boys. Or at the very least, men living out their boyhood fantasies.

///////

It's fair to say I probably enjoy these more when they happen in favor of my team. Watching my own players get doubled off, crumble in the late innings, or leave the field dejectedly while the other team parties at home plate is decidedly less fun.

Regardless, I love this game.