Baseball’s Uninvited Guests: A Look at the Wildest Animals That Have Graced the Dugout and Diamond
Baseball may be a game of strategy, skill, and split-second decisions, but sometimes the most unexpected moments come courtesy of creatures that have no business being on the field at all.
Rally Animals: A Time of Good Fortune
The snake that appeared in the dugout of the Los Angeles Dodgers during Game 2 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets is just the latest in a long line of unexpected visitors. From cats to squirrels, birds to reptiles, animals will always seemingly find their way onto the field of baseball stadiums.
Strange Encounters: Wildlife on the Field
Some animals are lucky for the teams they visit, while others can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game. Take the "Rally Cat" that appeared on the field at Busch Stadium in 2011, which became a symbol of good luck for the St. Louis Cardinals. After the cat’s brief cameo, the Cardinals’ Yadier Molina hit a grand slam, sending the stadium into a frenzy and securing a win.
Tale of the Uninvited
The Dodgers’ Jack Flaherty recalled the famous "Rally Cat" and its brief but memorable appearance. "The real magic, though, came after the cat’s brief cameo. Right after play resumed, Molina launched a grand slam, sending the stadium into a frenzy and giving the Cardinals the win," he said.
Fauna Found in the Dugout
Animals can find their way into the most unexpected places, like the Tampa Bay Rays’ pitching coach, who once spotted a possum in the dugout. "Must’ve jumped on the charter from Oakland," he joked.
Squirrels and Snakes: A Look at the Strangest Animals to Invade the Dugout
Recent examples from the Dodgers include a family of raccoons that made the visiting dugout their home and had to be trapped and released, and a goose that landed on the field during the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres.
The Wild Side of Baseball
While animals may not always bring good luck, they certainly spice up the game. Whether it’s a swarm of bugs that invade the field, a pigeon that causes a commotion, or a snake that finds its way onto the dugout, animals add a touch of unpredictability to the game.
Conclusion
From cats to squirrels, birds to reptiles, animals will always find their way onto the field of baseball stadiums. These unexpected visitors leave a mark on the game, creating unforgettable moments that fans talk about for years to come. For the players and teams, these surprising visitors bring an element of unpredictability, while for the fans, it’s all part of the magic of baseball.
FAQs
Q: What is the most unusual animal to appear on the field of a baseball game?
A: A cheetah was seen in the dugout during a game at Target Field in Minnesota in 2015 as part of a National Wildlife Day pregame celebration.
Q: What is the most common type of animal to appear on the field or in the dugout?
A: Squirrels and birds are the most common, with reports of rabbits, raccoons, opossums, and snakes also being common.
Q: Do animals always bring good luck to the teams they visit?
A: Not always. While some animals may be seen as omen of good luck, others can have an impact on the outcome of a game.
Q: Can animals be found in the dugout or on the field during regular games?
A: Yes, reports of animal sightings are common, with players and coaches often sharing stories of unexpected visitors on social media.
