A Seattle Mariners fan describes his love of team and the game
Seattle Mariners fan Jack Blake reminds us all that it’s the love of the team and game that counts.
It’s no surprise to many of you reading this article that I am a member of several Seattle Mariners fan groups on social media. I love baseball, and one of the reasons I do what I do is to share some of that passion with the Emerald City. That’s why when I found the following post on social media, I felt compelled to share it with the fans who come to PNWS.
Being a fan
The following is from a fan named Jack Blake. He’s an admin for Seattle Mariners Minors and Rebuild Fans group on Facebook. Recently, Jack shared an interaction he had with another Mariners fan. These words are his, not mine (except for a comma or apostrophe here or there).
I got into a “discussion” with a “fan” yesterday, and I thought I’d share this comment I left with this group. It really did describe how I look at some things, and how I feel I differ from so many fans out there. I think many in this group will understand.
I understand in some ways those that feel as you do. “Win or screw you” is pretty common now. I just don’t feel that way at all. I love the game of baseball for its own sake, and I love the hope every spring brings as a fan… even as a fan of the M’s. You can feel however you like. Your choice. I, however, find my way a lot more enjoyable. I’m 64 yrs old and have been a baseball fan since I was 9.
Every spring I’m 9-years-old all over again. I pity those that can’t just feel the joy of the game without the cynicism, despite playoff droughts and won-loss records.
(The) M’s are gonna be REALLY good very soon. I’m grateful I’m taking it in now as they grow.
Me too
I’m the first person to stand up and say fans have the right to be critical about their team. Let’s face it; everything isn’t sunshine and rainbows with the Seattle Mariners. They are a team that hasn’t been to the postseason since 2001. But Jack is right. When fans are critical, cynical, or just flat-out mad, they often forget about the game itself.
I also feel the same as Jack in another way. That first “thump” of a crisp fastball hitting the catcher’s mitt at spring training takes me back to being a kid, too. I remember how my mom taught me to use the scorebook. Also, the many conversations I had with my dad and him explaining to me why he was a Giants fan and how he couldn’t root for the Yankees because they won too much.
Thanks, Jack, for reminding us that it’s not always about the wins and losses. Instead, it’s the love of the game and the connections we make. I also look forward to the great team the Mariners will have in another year or so and the electric atmosphere at T-Mobile Park.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments section below or on social media.