Over the weekend, we had a baseball milestone: our oldest son, now 6, played in his first. ever. Little League Game. I would be lying if I said I didn't shed a tear. I was especially proud to see three girls on the team, rockin' their pink batting helmets and running the bases.
As with any sport, baseball has its own vernacular. Lingo that only baseball players and die-hard fans understand. If you're a mom or dad who has a kid on the field and you want the inside scoop on how to sound like you understand the game, here are five simple phrases you can toss around without embarrassing yourself or getting an eyeroll:
Gamer: A winner, not of the game but of the sport. A gamer plays hard and keeps on trying. Try this: "Hey, you played like such a gamer today." Or when you're taking to other parents, refer to their child as a gamer ("Dude, your kid is a total gamer.")
Throwing heat: A pitcher who's tossing out steamy fast pitches. Try this: "You were throwin' serious heat today!"
Cover the bases: Making sure the player is spotting all the action around the bases so a quick -- and smart -- play can be made. Try this: "Way to cover the bases." If you want to appear extra in the know, pick a play and mention it (Example: "Way to cover the bases when that liner shot between second and short."
Throw to first: Especially good advice for T-ballers, this reminder tells them to throw the ball to the first baseman because you know, it's hard for 5- and 6-year-old kids to watch all the action when their pickin' weeds in left field. Try this: Watch a play or two and when appropriate, yell (but not too loud) "Throw to first!"
Snack Mom: Perhaps the most important phrase you'll need to know. The Snack Mom is the mom who has brought all the good eats and drinks for a post-game fun. Try this: "Who's ready for some cupcakes?!" Enough said.
Any other Little League or Pony parents playing ball this season?
