The London Series 2019, the first-ever baseball games in Europe, took place over the weekend with the Boston Red Sox facing off against the New York Yankees.
The event drew a diverse crowd of fans of all ages from around the world, including those who don’t typically follow baseball. Even Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Markle made an appearance at the game, with Harry throwing the ceremonial first pitch.
Both teams had strong offensive performances with multiple runs and hits, though pitching proved to be a bit shaky. The Red Sox manager acknowledged the Yankees’ superior performance. The venue, not used to hosting baseball games but known for soccer matches, presented challenges for pitchers due to the backstop’s positioning. Additionally, there were difficulties with sliders due to humidity. Both teams executed impressive defensive plays in the outfield, showcasing their skills with quick catches and throws.
Attendance was high with nearly full capacity in the stadium for both games. The games set a new record for baseball attendance in Europe with 59,659 spectators in the first game and only slightly fewer in the second. However, the games were notably lengthy, testing the patience of the enthusiastic crowd.
The London Series also served as a platform for cultural exchange between the US and Britain, incorporating different music selections and game traditions like using trains instead of New York subways during breaks. The event brought the essence of baseball to Britain, fostering a historic and memorable experience of sportsmanship and unity.
