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Are MLB Games Cancelled if it Rains?
Major League Baseball (MLB) games are an American tradition. The sport has been around for over 150 years, and the league plays a variety of games throughout the summer months. But with the unpredictable nature of the weather, one question is often asked: Are MLB games cancelled if it rains?
The answer to this question is yes and no. It depends on a variety of factors, such as the amount of precipitation, the type of precipitation, and the field conditions. In general, MLB games are usually not cancelled due to rain, but there are exceptions.
Rainout Policy
The MLB has a rainout policy that is put into place to ensure the safety and well-being of the players, coaches, and fans. It states that if the field is deemed unplayable due to rain, the game will be postponed and rescheduled for a later date.
The rainout policy also states that there must be a certain amount of precipitation before a game is considered unplayable. This amount varies from stadium to stadium, but it is typically between 0.5 and 0.75 inches. If the precipitation exceeds this amount, the game is postponed.
Type of Precipitation
The type of precipitation is also taken into consideration when determining whether or not a game will be cancelled due to rain. If it is raining, but the rain is light and steady, then the game will likely still be played. However, if the rain is heavy and accompanied by lightning and/or thunder, then the game will likely be cancelled.
Field Conditions
The field conditions are another factor that can determine whether or not a game will be cancelled due to rain. If the field is already wet and soggy from previous rains, then the game will likely be postponed. This is to prevent players from slipping and getting injured.
The field conditions can also affect the amount of precipitation needed for a game to be postponed. If the field is already wet, then a smaller amount of precipitation can cause the game to be cancelled.
Other Factors
There are other factors that can also affect whether or not a game is cancelled due to rain. If the rain is part of a severe storm, such as a hurricane or tornado, then the game will likely be cancelled. Additionally, if the rain is accompanied by strong winds, the game may also be cancelled.
Impact of Cancellation
When a game is cancelled due to rain, there are several impacts that it can have. The most obvious is that the game will be rescheduled for a later date. This can create logistical problems, as teams may have to adjust their schedules or travel plans.
Additionally, if the game is cancelled due to rain, then any tickets that were purchased for the game will be refunded. This can be a financial burden for the team, as they will lose out on potential ticket sales.
Rain Delay
Another option that the MLB can take when there is rain is to delay the start of the game. This is usually done when there is light rain and the field conditions are still playable. The game will be started when the rain has subsided and the field is deemed playable.
Tarp
If the rain is light and steady, then the MLB can also opt to cover the field with a tarp. This will protect the field from the rain and allow the game to be played as soon as the rain has stopped.
Rainout Nights
Many MLB teams also offer “rainout nights”, which are nights when the game is cancelled due to rain and the tickets are refunded. This is a great way for teams to ensure that fans are not left out in the rain and that they get a refund on their tickets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, MLB games are usually not cancelled due to rain, but there are exceptions. The amount of precipitation, the type of precipitation, and the field conditions are all taken into consideration when determining whether or not a game will be postponed. Additionally, teams may offer “rainout nights” or use tarps to protect the field from the rain.
Ultimately, MLB games are rarely cancelled due to rain. However, rain can still cause delays or postponements, so it is important to be prepared for any situation.