What is Around the Horn?
Around the Horn is a game in baseball that involves throwing the ball from one player to another around the infield. The goal is to complete the throws in the fastest time possible, usually within 20 seconds. The game is usually played by four players in the infield, but can be played by any number of players.
History of Around the Horn
Around the Horn is thought to have originated in the early 1900’s in the United States. It is believed to have been created by the St. Louis Cardinals in the late 1800’s as a way to practice throwing from one player to another in the infield.
When Did Around the Horn Start?
It is difficult to pinpoint the exact date that Around the Horn began, but it is believed to have been played in the early 1900’s. The first documented instance of Around the Horn was in a game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Washington Senators on May 5, 1909. The Cardinals won the game 5-4, and the Around the Horn game was credited as an important factor in their victory.
Popularity of Around the Horn
Around the Horn quickly gained popularity and spread throughout the major leagues. It was adopted by other teams and eventually became a common practice in the game of baseball. In the 1930’s and 1940’s, Around the Horn was a staple of the game and was played by nearly all teams.
How is Around the Horn Played?
Around the Horn is usually played by four players in the infield. The players stand in a line, with the first player in the line throwing the ball to the second, and so on, until the ball is thrown back to the first player. The goal is to complete the throws in the fastest time possible, usually within 20 seconds.
Variations of Around the Horn
Over the years, Around the Horn has evolved and there are now several variations of the game. These include:
- Short Around the Horn: This variation is similar to the traditional version, but the players must throw the ball from one to the next in fewer than 10 seconds.
- Long Around the Horn: This version requires the players to throw the ball from one to the next in 20 seconds or less.
- Reverse Around the Horn: This variation requires the players to throw the ball from the first to the last, then the last to the first, and so on, in 20 seconds or less.
- Single Around the Horn: This version requires the players to throw the ball from the first to the last and back in 20 seconds or less.
Benefits of Playing Around the Horn
Around the Horn is an excellent way to practice throwing accuracy and speed, as well as hand-eye coordination. It is also a great way to practice teamwork and communication between players.
Around the Horn Today
Today Around the Horn is still popular among baseball teams. It is used to practice throwing accuracy and speed, as well as hand-eye coordination. It is also used as a bonding activity for teams, to practice communication and teamwork.
Conclusion
Around the Horn is a popular game in baseball that has a long history. It is thought to have originated in the early 1900’s in the United States, and has evolved over the years to include different variations. Today it is still popular among teams, and is used to practice throwing accuracy and speed, as well as hand-eye coordination.