From the Sidelines: A pitch for baseball studies

But despite these many connections, Yale consistently strikes out in recognizing the academic importance of the grand old game. That is why we humbly propose the creation of a baseball studies department and major.

So many Yale courses have no real-world applicability. But baseball studies students could apply knowledge acquired in the classroom 162 times a year. Baseball studies courses could overlap with, and count toward, many preexisting Yale majors. We have devised a list of potential courses to help the Administration create the badly needed, intellectually stimulating baseball studies program.

Baseball Studies 244a/Film Studies 279a: Pride of the Yankees to Little Big League

This class explores the question of what makes a good baseball movie. Is it the presence of hunks like Kevin Costner and Robert Redford? The class will also discuss age-old issues, such as the religious symbolism of "angels" in the outfield.

Psychology 341b: The Psychology of Baseball

Have you ever wondered how Bill Buckner felt as the ball rolled between his legs? What's the pressure like when one plays in front of all 42 die-hard Expos fans? Does Randy Johnson really have the power to put batters in a hypnotic trance? This class will answer burning questions like these.

Biology 432b: Baseball Injuries

For all you Group IV nuts, this class will help you figure out exactly what a rotator cuff is. Before you know it, you'll be doing Tommy John surgery on your roommate.

English 123a: Matthew Christopher

We all read Matthew Christopher, but have you every really heard him? Learn to "hear" his classic works, such as Catcher with a Glass Arm, The Kid Who Only Hit Homers, and Shortstop from Tokyo. We'll also look at unpublished works such as Look Who Defected to Our Team
and The Left Fielder With the Trick Knee.

Clearly, there's already room for many baseball-related courses within Yale's current departments. But many others just won't fit. That's why a specialized department, with new faculty, is needed to fully develop the sensibilities of the Yale undergraduate. Here are a few suggestions for the advanced studies of baseball at Yale.

Baseball Studies 401b: Difficult Baseball Concepts: The Infield Fly Rule, the Save, and the Double Switch

Visiting Professor Peter Gammons

When ESPN announcer Joe Morgan tries to talk about the infield fly rule, it's clear he has no idea what he's talking about. Does anyone know what this obscure concept really is? This class will elucidate the intricacies that prevent the casual fan from being a truly educated observer. Prerequisite: Baseball Studies 320,"The Double Steal and the Suicide Squeeze."

Baseball Studies 429b: The Bunt

All too often, players such as Marty Barrett and Rafael Belliard go unnoticed in the annals of baseball history. This course corrects that vicious slight. It will also foster a deeper understanding of "sacrifice."

Baseball Studies 420a/Philosophy 316a: Yogisms

Spend countless hours debating whether "it's over when it's over" and whether it is, in fact, possible to hit a ball with one's face. Also, contemplate the just course of action upon reaching "a fork in the road"--should one really "take it?"

Baseball Studies 217b: The Steinbrenner Years

Explore the reign of King George: his ups and downs, his rants and raves. Will he ever be forgiven for the Buhner-for-Phelps trade? Was Billy Martin just a patsy? Guest lecturers include Willie Randolph, Rudy Giuliani, Wayne Tolleson, and Mikey from the Bronx.

The choices for courses are vast, and this list is just a start. We've planted the seed--now it's your job to help this great idea become a reality. Let the Administration know how you feel. E-mail, picket, tell your parents to stop their checks. Only you can make the dream come true. To paraphrase the immortal words of Field of Dreams: if you build it, everyone will come.

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