Written by Mark Bailey
Baseball has long been considered America’s pastime and it’s not for nothing that it is often referred to as ‘The Great American Game.’ But baseball’s appeal extends far beyond the United States. From Japan to the Dominican Republic, the sport has cemented itself as a beloved game across many countries, blending seamlessly into diverse cultures and traditions.
How did a sport with humble beginnings in 19th-century America become a global sensation? This post will explore the origins of baseball, its meteoric rise in the United States, and how it spread across continents, becoming a cherished pastime worldwide.
The Origins of Baseball in the United States
The roots of baseball stretch back to the early 1800s in the United States. While its exact origin is debated, many credit the adaptation of older bat-and-ball games from England, such as cricket and rounders, with sparking what we now know as baseball.
By 1845, Alexander Cartwright formalized the “Knickerbocker Rules,” which formed the foundation of modern baseball. These rules not only standardized gameplay but also helped unite players across the country by providing structure to the game. The first recorded baseball game using these rules took place in Hoboken, New Jersey, in 1846.
The simplicity of the rules combined with the opportunity to enjoy friendly competition struck a chord with Americans, and by the late 19th century, baseball had begun blossoming into a cherished pastime.
The National Obsession with Baseball
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, baseball’s popularity surged in the United States. It wasn’t just a game anymore—it was a cultural touchstone. Stadiums filled with fans from all walks of life, proving the sport’s universal appeal. Heroes like Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson emerged, and their performances on the diamond encapsulated the hopes and dreams of millions.
Baseball also played a pivotal role in breaking barriers. Jackie Robinson’s historic debut in 1947 as the first African American player in Major League Baseball (MLB) transcended sports, marking a turning point in America’s civil rights movement.
By this point, the sport was deeply ingrained in American culture, often referred to as the national pastime. But what spurred baseball’s worldwide spread? For that, we need to look to history and geopolitics.
Exploring the Role of American Soldiers
Baseball’s first foray onto the global stage can be credited, in large part, to American soldiers stationed abroad.
During the late 19th century and early 20th century, the U.S. military frequently introduced baseball to nations where it had a presence. For example, American soldiers stationed in Cuba in the 1860s introduced the game, and it quickly gained a strong following. Today, the Cuban National Series remains a symbol of baseball’s deep roots in the country.
Similarly, during World War II, U.S. soldiers played baseball as a means to unwind and foster camaraderie. They organized games throughout Europe and Asia, introducing countless locals to the sport. Japanese soldiers returning after the war brought with them an enthusiasm for the game that would quickly result in Japan becoming one of the most passionate baseball nations outside the U.S.
International Tours and Exhibitions
While soldiers played a key role, American baseball also actively promoted itself overseas through international tours and exhibitions.
From the late 19th century onward, MLB teams, college teams, and even barnstorming players showcased the sport in international exhibitions. For instance, in 1888-1889, a team led by baseball promoter Albert Spalding embarked on a global tour, playing exhibition games in countries like Australia, Egypt, and Italy. The goal? To expand baseball’s reach on the global stage.
Later, in the post-WWII era, initiatives like the MLB All-Star tours of Japan further solidified international ties. These high-profile games showcased the best of what baseball had to offer, while fueling passion for the sport among new audiences.
Baseball also promoted cultural diplomacy. MLB’s willingness to bring the game beyond its borders demonstrated its openness, helping baseball find roots in parts of the world with no prior connection to the sport. At the same time, baseball introduced American values and concepts to audiences across the globe.
Baseball’s Impact on Cultures Worldwide
The spread of baseball wasn’t just about exporting a game—it was about blending into local cultures. Various countries have embraced baseball in unique ways, infusing it with their traditions and values.
Baseball in Japan
Arguably, the most successful case of baseball’s international adoption is in Japan. Known as “you,” baseball was first introduced by an American professor in the late 19th century. By the 1930s, professional leagues had formed in the country, and today, Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) is one of the most prominent leagues in the world.
Japanese baseball is known for its precise attention to detail, discipline, and teamwork. Fans bring incredible energy to games, transforming stadiums into vibrant, communal celebrations.
Baseball in Latin America
Baseball’s roots in Latin America trace back to Cuba in the 1860s, spreading to countries like the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela. Today, these nations dominate the MLB rosters with exceptional talent, and the sport is woven into the fabric of their cultures.
For instance, the Dominican Republic has over 100 MLB players representing its small population, and baseball academies are prevalent across the country. The winter baseball leagues in Latin America, like La Liga de Béisbol Profesional in Venezuela, remain cultural staples.
Baseball in South Korea
South Korea is another nation where baseball has flourished. Introduced in the early 20th century, the sport saw its popularity boom during the 1980s. The Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) league is now a fan favorite, and South Korea has consistently ranked among the world’s top baseball nations.
The introduction of bat flips, and lively crowd chants in South Korean baseball illustrates how the sport takes on distinct cultural dimensions in different regions.
The Rise of Baseball Betting
One interesting aspect of baseball’s global reach is the rise of sports betting associated with the sport. As it spread around the world, so did a passion for placing bets on games and predicting outcomes.
Let’s not talk about what the internet has done for gambling. That’s another topic altogether. However, the introduction of online sports betting has made it easier for fans to participate in the action, even if they can’t physically attend games.
There are still 4 months until the start of the season, but early predictions for the MLB World Series are already being made. FanDuel Sportsbook has listed the Dodgers and Yankees as early favorites, with the Braves and Phillies close behind. Pretty good odds!
From Humble Beginnings to a Global Game
Baseball’s transformation from a niche pastime in 19th-century America to a global phenomenon is a testament to its universal appeal.
Whether through American soldiers playing games stationed abroad, intentional promotions via international tours, or organic cultural integrations, baseball grew to claim an important place in the hearts of millions worldwide.
Its ability to unite people, transcend borders, and adapt to cultural nuances is unmatched. For enthusiasts at home and abroad, baseball has proven to be not just a sport, but a shared global experience.