The 82nd Major League Baseball All Star game has come and gone, with out much interest it would seem. T.V. ratings were down 19% from last year and some are even calling for the end of this summer classic. Players bolted at an alarming rate, and the "buzz" that once drove argument and excitement is no more. This amid a game that actually means something now, like home field advantage in the World Series. What's wrong?
Some blame inter league play, some player's salaries, and some say baseball is simply in decline. I remember in years past the anticipation of being able to see a galaxy of baseball stars, all gathered in one location, ready to do battle, and uphold the honor of which ever league, National or American, that you happened to root for. They never seemed to disappoint. What changed?
For one thing the way we watch T.V. has changed. Multiple channels of diverse interests has given Americans an endless choice. I don't think America has turned against baseball I think it's just to easy to push a button and see what's happening up or down the spectrum. It's summer, people are more mobile now then they ever were in the past. Most people are under the threat of constant distraction. Players as well as fans fall victim to the same temptations. It is a long season and maybe they need a vacation like everyone else. Where do we go from here?
I don't have the answer. There are many suggestions out there but it will take someone with more insight then me to find a fix for a declining American Classic. I continue to watch with mild interest to see how my hometown boys will do, but never with the fervor that once existed. Whatever happens with the MLB All Star game, count me as one who misses a time in the past, when I looked forward to a summer evening of pure escapism. Maybe I am just distracted too.
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