For the first time ever, I’m watching a Red Sox game. Granted, it’s a Red Sox game from April 1st, 2011, but it’s still an actual, for really real, major league baseball game.
After months of reading and watching clips of past games, this is extremely refreshing. I’m finally able to put my (still somewhat limited) knowledge to use. I understand what most of the stats mean. I understand why Pedroia attempted to bunt while Ellsbury was on first with no outs. And I even understand why George W. was in the stands wearing a Rangers cap.
There are still some areas where I’m confused. I don’t get why Napoli was out after being hit with the ball while he was running inside the baseline. And the sheer number of unfamiliar names are almost overwhelming.
But I’m starting to hold onto them and starting to recognize people as they come up to the plate. Ellsbury, Pedroia and Youkilis. Crawford, Ortiz and Cameron. They’re becoming fixed. This might be a problem, cause I don’t know how many of them are still on the team now, but that doesn’t matter so much at the moment.
My biggest worry when I start the 2012 season is that I won’t have any idea what’s going on or who anyone is. And I’ve managed to settle my fears a bit.
I think I’m going to be ok.
Dylan Charles
dylancharles.net 