drlynn
TPF Noob!
But the mental part of baseball that is really found in no other sport is pitcher vs. batter. A good pitcher and/or his catcher will know that this hitter, f'rinstance, ALWAYS swings on the first pitch, or doesn't cover the outside of the plate well, or can't lay off the curve just off the outside of the plate.
And a good hitter knows, that this pitcher always tips his slider by dropping his front shoulder, or never throws two fastballs in a row, etc.
It's all about which one can outthink the other. And when you add in guys on base, possbile steals, hit-and-run, run-and-hit, drag bunts, etc., then you see that baseball is the most mentally challenging sport.
The "mental side" of hockey as described is less actual thinking, and more reacting. There is a difference between making a conscious decision and having fast reflexes.
Not that I don't enjoy watching hockey. I love it! It's just getting harder to find a game on unless you're willing to fork over $100+ every season.
And a good hitter knows, that this pitcher always tips his slider by dropping his front shoulder, or never throws two fastballs in a row, etc.
It's all about which one can outthink the other. And when you add in guys on base, possbile steals, hit-and-run, run-and-hit, drag bunts, etc., then you see that baseball is the most mentally challenging sport.
The "mental side" of hockey as described is less actual thinking, and more reacting. There is a difference between making a conscious decision and having fast reflexes.
Not that I don't enjoy watching hockey. I love it! It's just getting harder to find a game on unless you're willing to fork over $100+ every season.