Article: Milwaukee Brewers: 'Twas the Night Before Opening Day

[Tim Muma]

For some Milwaukee Brewers fans, Opening Day is akin to Christmas morning, with the buildup all year, the excitement of new "toys," and the childlike feeling of happiness they experience. Ideally, that feeling lasts for months, not days. In the spirit of Christmas and Opening Day, it's only fitting to have a poem that mirrors the impact of anticipation.

Image courtesy of © Mark Hoffman / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

 

The 2023 Milwaukee Brewers open the new season at Wrigley Field in Chicago. While it shouldn't be quite as cold as a regular Christmas, there will be a chill in the air and possibly some snow lying around. But that shouldn't put a damper on Opening Day, a traditional date each year celebrated by millions, much like Christmas.

(Read in your best "old-timey" voice, or as Bob Uecker.)

'Twas the night before Opening Day, when all through the park, the stands echoed silence, the diamond laid dark. The pennants and bunting hung stoically still in the air, freshly crisp, with a windy spring chill.

Kids' baseballs have nestled all snug in their mitts, holding bats under pillows while dreaming of hits. Players working all night on the curve of their caps, excited to awaken from their long winter naps.

Soon the fans will gather with a buzz and some chatter, shouting praises and jeers, and "Hey, batter, batter!" The sun's rays creep down the right field line, enriching the green of the outfield's shine.

Each line gently set with an artist's deft touch, like a stud, All-Star hitter coming through in the clutch. The infield is soft with a flawless, smooth finish, ensuring defenders' fine skills won't diminish.

Hours from first pitch, the boys take some grounders, a part of the game left over from rounders. Oh, how I've longed for the sharp crack of lumber and watching fielders give chase, barely seeing their number.

Still filling the lots with cars all around, a rhythm emerges with a harmonic sound. Giddy fans get warmed up in their own unique way by grilling and eating and drinking all day. 

First pitch is approaching as fans make their way to the seats they've staked claim to for Opening Day. The Championship season commences so soon. In the blink of an eye, we'll be wrapping up June.

Lineup exchanges, quick shaking of hands, an aura of hope overtaking the stands. Stars and stripes waving, the Anthem sung proud. Anticipation building - it's about to get loud.

A toss down to second, a brush of the plate. "Play!" shouts the umpire; no longer we wait. The pitcher stares in with cool, anxious eyes. Holding their breath, the spectators rise.

He winds, kicks, and fires - boom, it's strike one! My Christmas is here as the season's begun. Every day now a gift from here 'til November, dreaming this is a year Milwaukee Brewers fans remember.

 

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[Ulice Payne]

3 hours ago, Tim Muma said:

Soon the fans will gather with a buzz and some chatter, shouting praises and jeers, and "Hey, batter, batter!"

Any poem including the line "Hey batter batter!" is a masterpiece.

Happy Opening Day.