LA Dodgers with surf lifesavers on Bondi Beach (Drew Butera, Tim Federowicz, Mike Baxter, Chris Withrow). PRNewsFoto/Destination New South Wales
[dropcap]B[/dropcap]aseball might be known as America’s national pastime, but Major League Baseball has to decided to open the 2014 season in Australia for a pair of games between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The move isn’t completely unprecedented, as the 2012 MLB season started in Japan. While playing regular-season games overseas might seem like a questionable idea, it’s done a great deal for creating a global demand for baseball.
It’s also a historic anniversary for baseball in Australia and the Sydney Cricket Ground where the games are to be played, because it’s not the first time they’ve hosted a MLB game. In fact, the SCG hosted an exhibition game between the Chicago White Sox and New York Giants 100 years ago.
Besides getting ready for the start of the season, players from both teams also had the opportunity to do some sight seeing. The Dodgers visited Bondi Beach, while players from the Diamondbacks ventured to see Sydney Harbour.
Diamondbacks pitcher Josh Collmenter and friends take in stunning views of Sydney Harbour from the Bridge Climb. PRNewsFoto/Destination New South Wales
New South Wales Premier Barry O’Farrell welcomed MLB and was excited to be able to have the opportunity to host such a historic event. “The MLB Opening Series is one of the most anticipated sporting events ever to be staged in Sydney.”
“It’s been a long-build up since we announced Sydney had secured these matches but the Opening Series is nearly upon us – the amazing transformation of the hallowed SCG into a ballpark is complete and both teams have now arrived in our beautiful city.”
“My Government came to office with a commitment to grow the State’s economy by bringing major events to NSW and there is no surer sign we are delivering on our commitment than the MLB Opening Series.”
