Baseball isn’t just about home runs and strikeouts—it’s about the fans. From singing in the seventh inning to bringing a glove just in case, every ballpark and fan base has its own unique traditions that make going to a game a truly unforgettable experience. Here’s a look at some of the most beloved fan traditions in baseball.
The Seventh-Inning Stretch
Few traditions in sports are as iconic as the seventh-inning stretch. Right before the bottom of the seventh, fans rise from their seats to shake off the stiffness and sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” Whether you’re at Wrigley Field with thousands of Cubs fans or in your own living room, this tradition brings everyone together in a shared love for the game.
Some ballparks even have their own twist:
At Wrigley Field, a special guest leads the crowd in the song.
In New York, Mets fans sometimes belt out “Piano Man” in the eighth inning.
Bringing a Glove to Catch a Foul Ball
It doesn’t matter how old you are—if you bring a glove to the ballpark, you’re hoping to make the catch of a lifetime. Whether it’s snagging a foul ball or catching a home run in the outfield, securing a baseball at a game is a dream moment for any fan.
Some stadiums, like Oracle Park in San Francisco, even have fans waiting in kayaks in McCovey Cove, hoping to scoop up a splash-hit home run.
The Wave
It may be a little controversial—some baseball purists don’t love it—but the wave is a fan-favorite way to show stadium-wide excitement. When one section stands up with their arms raised, and the momentum builds as it moves around the stadium, it’s a thrilling visual that brings thousands of strangers together.
The wave might not be for high-pressure moments, but when it happens, it’s all part of the fun.
Walk-Up Music & Player Anthems
Fans love getting hyped when their favorite players step up to bat. Every player picks their own walk-up song, and some songs become legendary:
Mariano Rivera’s “Enter Sandman” – This Metallica classic signaled doom for opposing batters.
Chipper Jones’ “Crazy Train” – Braves fans loved this Ozzy Osbourne anthem.
Yoenis Céspedes’ “The Circle of Life” – Because why not bring The Lion King to baseball?
At some stadiums, fans sing along to team-specific anthems, like “Sweet Caroline” in the eighth inning at Fenway Park.
The Home Run Hat, Bell, or Celebration
Every team has its own way of celebrating a home run:
The Phillies ring the Liberty Bell at Citizens Bank Park.
The Brewers’ Bernie Brewer slides down into a beer mug after a Milwaukee home run.
The Cardinals fans flap their arms like birds after a St. Louis home run.
At some stadiums, fans create their own home run celebrations, tossing hats, jumping up and down, or high-fiving every stranger in sight.
Throwing Back an Opponent’s Home Run Ball
This one is all about fandom loyalty. If a visiting team’s player hits a home run into the stands at Wrigley Field, Cubs fans have a hard rule: throw it back! Many other stadiums have adopted this tradition, with home fans refusing to keep an opposing player’s home run ball.
(Of course, not everyone follows this—some fans secretly swap it out for a different baseball to keep the souvenir!)
Rally Caps
When your team is trailing late in the game, there’s only one thing to do: flip your cap inside out and wear it backwards. This baseball superstition, known as the rally cap, is believed to bring good luck and help spark a comeback.
Some fans take it even further, standing up, chanting, or even waving their hats to “send energy” to their team. And hey—sometimes, it actually works!
Post-Game Celebrations & Songs
The game might be over, but fans keep the party going:
New York Yankees fans stay for “New York, New York” after every win.
Los Angeles Dodgers fans belt out “I Love L.A.” when they take the victory.
Cleveland Guardians fans dance to “Cleveland Rocks” after every home win.
Even if your team loses, sticking around for the post-game atmosphere is part of the experience.
Baseball Traditions Keep the Game Special
Whether it’s singing in the stands, flipping your cap, or bringing a glove in hopes of catching a foul ball, fan traditions are what make baseball more than just a game. They create memories, bring people together, and keep the sport’s rich history alive.
So next time you’re at a game, join in the fun—because baseball is best when shared.
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The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!