Keller @ Large: Baseball's Pace Of Play Is Just Right
BOSTON (CBS) - I went to my first Red Sox game of the summer last night, if you don't count the game back in April in which the temperature didn't break 40, which I don't, because all I remember about it was the struggle for survival.
Last night's game was much more pleasant, perfect temperature, a happy crowd, and the familiar sounds of hot dog vendors, happy fans singing "Take Me Out To The Ballgame," and the bat on the ball.
At least, when the Angels were batting.
I had a great time, but according to many experts, I wasn't supposed to.
That's because the game ran over three hours, an interminable time span deemed unacceptable by various pundits and guardians of the game.
Apparently, as three-hour games have become the norm, these folks are frantic that fans will lose interest, that younger people in particular used to action-packed video games won't tolerate a sport with such a leisurely pace, either at the ballpark or on TV.
I say, let 'em take a hike.
The whole point of baseball is the slow speed at which it is played, which is perfect for the summer, when the human spirit wants to slow down and relax a little.
Besides, there was plenty of action to keep me occupied last night, even though the Red Sox couldn't hit the Pru Tower with a Duck Boat.
I spilled my $10 beer; I sang "Sweet Caroline"; I took a picture for the cute family next to me; I had some laughs with my bride; I even took a short nap at one point.
It was three-plus hours of relaxation and enjoyment, and I'll do all I can to prevent them from speeding it up.
That is, once I get done paying off the second mortgage I took out to pay for the experience.
Listen to Jon's commentary:
You can listen to Keller At Large on WBZ News Radio every weekday at 7:55 a.m. You can also watch Jon on WBZ-TV News.
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