Baseball is one of the most beloved American past times and is celebrated by millions of fans across the country. Major League Baseball (MLB) games are some of the most anticipated sporting events of the year, and they often start at 6:30 PM. While this may seem like a strange start time, there are many reasons why MLB games are scheduled to start at this particular hour. In this article, we will discuss why MLB games start at 6:30 PM and what factors go into deciding the start time for each game.
Historical Significance of 6:30 PM Start Time
The 6:30 PM start time for MLB games has a long and rich history. Before the introduction of electricity, most people relied on the sun for things like lighting and warmth. As such, the majority of activities were conducted during the day when the sun was out, and people tended to go to bed shortly after the sun went down.
With this in mind, the 6:30 PM start time for MLB games is actually quite sensible. This start time allows fans to attend the game after work and still have enough time to get home before the sun sets. Additionally, the 6:30 PM start time gives the players enough time to prepare for the game, get dressed, and warm up.
Accounting for Daylight Savings Time
In the United States, daylight savings time (DST) is observed from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November, during which time clocks are set one hour ahead. This means that MLB games that are scheduled for 6:30 PM during daylight savings time will actually start at 7:30 PM.
The reason for this is that MLB games are scheduled to start at the same time regardless of whether it is daylight savings time or not. This ensures that all games are consistent and that fans know exactly when the game will start. It also allows for a better viewing experience, as fans can plan their evening accordingly and know that the game will start at the same time every night.
Advantages of 6:30 PM Start Time
The 6:30 PM start time for MLB games has several advantages. For starters, it allows for more time for fans to attend the game after work. This is especially helpful for families with young children, who may not be able to stay out late on school nights. Additionally, it provides plenty of time for players to warm up and prepare for the game.
Also, the 6:30 PM start time helps to ensure that games will be finished before the sun sets. This is important for both the players and the fans, as it helps to ensure that the game can be played in natural light and that fans will have enough time to get home safely before the sun sets.
Weather Considerations
The weather is also a major factor that influences the start time of MLB games. Inclement weather can cause games to be delayed or even postponed, so it is important to schedule games with enough time to account for potential delays.
The 6:30 PM start time helps to ensure that games will be completed before the sun sets, which is important in case of rain or other inclement weather. Additionally, the 6:30 PM start time gives the teams enough time to make a decision on whether or not to postpone the game.
Factoring in Travel Time
MLB games are often scheduled with travel time in mind. Teams typically play multiple games in a row, or even multiple series, in different cities. This means that teams need to factor in travel time when scheduling games.
The 6:30 PM start time allows teams to play multiple games in a row without having to worry about running out of daylight. This ensures that teams have enough time to travel to their next destination, as well as time to rest between games.
Advantages for Television Broadcasts
The 6:30 PM start time also has some advantages for television broadcasts. This start time allows for games to be broadcast in the evening, when more people are likely to be watching. Additionally, this start time allows for games to be played in natural light, which is important for television broadcasts.
The 6:30 PM start time also allows for games to end at a reasonable hour, which is important for ensuring that fans can watch the entire game without having to stay up too late. This also allows for games to be broadcast in prime time slots, which can help to attract more viewers.
Conclusion
The 6:30 PM start time for MLB games has many advantages. This start time allows for fans to attend the game after work and still have enough time to get home before the sun sets. It also helps to ensure that games will be completed before the sun sets, which is important for both the players and the fans. Additionally, this start time allows for games to be broadcast in prime time slots and for teams to factor in travel time when scheduling games.
Ultimately, the 6:30 PM start time for MLB games is a sensible and practical choice. This start time has many advantages and helps to ensure that games will run smoothly and that fans will have an enjoyable viewing experience.