Baseball, America’s favorite pastime, is known for its intense competitive spirit and passionate fans. But amidst all the drama and excitement of the game, there is also a lighter side to baseball that often goes unnoticed. One such aspect of baseball that is often overlooked is the unwritten rule that there is no crying—or sleeping!—in baseball.
This unspoken rule has been ingrained in the culture of baseball for decades, passed down from generation to generation of players and fans alike. It stems from the idea that baseball is a game of toughness and resilience, where players must be able to brush off mistakes and setbacks and keep pushing forward.
In a sport where failure is a common occurrence—batters fail to get hits more often than they succeed, pitchers give up home runs and walks, and fielders make errors—it is important for players to have a strong mental fortitude. Crying or showing weakness is seen as a sign of vulnerability, and is therefore frowned upon in the world of baseball.
Similarly, sleeping on the job is also a major taboo in baseball. Whether it be a player catching some shut-eye in the dugout between innings, or a fan dozing off in the stands during a particularly dull game, sleeping during a baseball game is seen as disrespectful to the game and the players on the field.
Of course, there have been exceptions to this rule over the years. In 2014, New York Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira famously fell asleep in the dugout during a game against the Boston Red Sox. While Teixeira claimed that he was just resting his eyes, the incident sparked a debate among fans and players about the propriety of sleeping during a baseball game.
In the end, the unwritten rule that there is no crying—or sleeping!—in baseball serves as a reminder to players and fans alike of the importance of staying focused and mentally tough in the face of adversity. It may be a lighthearted rule, but it reflects the competitive spirit and unwavering dedication that have made baseball the beloved sport that it is today. So the next time you find yourself at a baseball game, remember: there’s no crying—or sleeping!—in baseball!