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How has the business of baseball evolved over time, and what impact has this had on the sport and its fans?

Kelton Sayse

The business of baseball has evolved significantly over time, and this has had a profound impact on the sport and its fans. The evolution of baseball business can be traced back to the early 20th century. At that time, baseball was primarily a recreational activity, and the business aspects of the game were relatively limited. However, the growth of the game's popularity soon led to the emergence of a formal structure around it. This structure included the establishment of organized leagues, salaries for players, and revenue sharing among teams.

During the post-World War II period, the business of baseball began to take on a more significant role. This era saw the introduction of television broadcasts, which allowed the game to reach a wider audience. The increased exposure led to a surge in ticket sales and merchandise sales, which further fueled the game's growth.

The 1980s and 1990s saw the emergence of bigger contracts, higher salaries, and a more globalized business environment. With the growth of the game's popularity came a surge of investment from companies looking to capitalize on its success. The creation of the new franchise teams and divisions, baseball academies, training sessions and other similar activities have become a source of revenue for the business.

However, the evolution of baseball's business has not come without consequences. The increasing commercialization of the game has led to higher ticket prices, which has priced many fans out of the ballpark. Moreover, some fans see this commercialization as a detriment to the purity of the sport, as elements of performance and money may at times become more important than the aesthetic enjoyment of the game.

In conclusion, the business of baseball has undergone significant changes in modern times. Its evolution has taken it from a recreational activity to a multi-billion dollar industry, influencing not only the sport itself but the fans that follow it. While the growth of the game has provided many benefits, such as increased exposure and investment, it has also come with significant challenges, such as pricing out some viewers and detracting from the beauty of the game. Overall, the impact of business on baseball can be seen as both a blessing and a curse.