Baseball is a beloved sport with a long and storied history. However, there are still many hidden facts and fascinating stories surrounding the game. Here are 10 things you may not know about baseball:
1. **The first baseball game was played in 1839.** The game was played between two teams of 11 players in Cooperstown, New York.
2. **The original rules of baseball were written by Alexander Cartwright in 1845.** These rules included many of the same elements that are still used in the game today, such as the nine-inning format and the three-strike rule.
3. **The first professional baseball team was founded in 1869.** The team was called the Cincinnati Red Stockings, and they played in the National Association of Base Ball Players.
4. **The first World Series was played in 1903.** The series was played between the American League champion Boston Americans and the National League champion Pittsburgh Pirates.
5. **Babe Ruth is considered the greatest baseball player of all time.** Ruth was a prolific hitter and pitcher, and he helped the New York Yankees win seven World Series championships.
6. **The longest game in baseball history was played in 1984.** The game between the Chicago White Sox and the Milwaukee Brewers lasted 25 innings and ended in a 7-6 victory for the White Sox.
7. **The most home runs in a single season is 61.** This record was set by Roger Maris of the New York Yankees in 1961.
8. **The most stolen bases in a single season is 130.** This record was set by Rickey Henderson of the Oakland Athletics in 1982.
9. **The most wins by a pitcher in a single season is 59.** This record was set by Charles Radbourn of the Providence Grays in 1884.
10. **Baseball is the national sport of the United States, Japan, and South Korea.** The game is also popular in many other countries around the world, including Cuba, Venezuela, and Mexico.