Science behind baseball

Do you know how much science is involved behind baseball?

Who doesn’t like baseball? And, have you ever wondered how to throw a curve ball and why the ball actually appears to curve in midair? Baseball is a favorite American pastime and is another indicator that spring is here. Many youth will suit up for a baseball team this spring and hone their skills of throwing, hitting, catching and running. Those of us who have hung up our bat and glove still love to watch the game and cheer for our favorite team. Whether you are a player or spectator, there are many elements of the game of baseball that go unnoticed. Secret parts of baseball happen right in front of us, but only the best players and coaches know about. Yes, I am talking about the science behind the game!

There is science of throwing a good curve ball, hitting a ball, science behind what makes a baseball, in the grass, and even the science behind that machine that shoots t-shirts and prizes way up into the stands. Don’t tell your kids, but there is an awful lot of science in baseball!

The Rising Above the Gathering Storm Report highlighted a significant challenge: America’s young people are not prepared with the necessary math, science and workforce skills for the 21st century. It is a scary thought that today’s children and youth may not know enough about science and math to be successful professionals in today’s changing world. It is up to all of us to help equip and encourage today’s youth. This work isn’t just left to schools and universities, but starts right here in our own communities. That is why the Lansing Lugnuts is partnering with Michigan State University Extension, 4-H Youth Development to host 4-H Science Day with the Lugnuts on Saturday, April 13. This game is dedicated to helping youth, and really all of us, understand and enjoy the science behind the game of baseball.

When the Lugnut gates open at noon, come on down to the field and learn firsthand from the Lugnuts pitching coach and players the science behind pitching. If you are interested in the field or just how to mow those cool lines in the outfield come listen to the field manager talk about the science behind the grass and soil and why the turf in the outfield is different than your back yard. Also see over a dozen hands on science activities and experiments throughout the concourse that will interest and excite you. Check out activities that involve robotics, build and launch catapults, experiment with water bugs and much more.

To learn more about the event and to order tickets go to www.LansingLugnuts.com and click on the 4-H Clover. The gates open at noon for the science activities and the game starts at 2:05 p.m. See you at the ballpark!

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