Why are the called the Reds?
One of the oldest teams, Cincinnati’s baseball club was known as the Cincinnati “Red Stockings” – so named because they wore socks.
Eventually, this name was shortened to “Redlegs” and this then shortened to “Reds”.
Bonus fun fact, in 1953 the team was briefly known again as the “Red Stockings”, and Red removed from all the uniforms.
Why?
As the AP reported “The political significance of the word ‘Reds’ these days and its effect on the change was NOT discussed by management”…….. sure guys
(please note that in no way do I condone or support the “Red Army” – apologies to my Russian readers)
Why am I excited to see their city?
Cincinnati is apparently a pretty fun city to catch a ball game and cross over into the “Southern State” of Kentucky.
But what I’m really excited for, is destroying my guts and trying the famous Cincinnati “delicacy” Skyline Chilli.
Take a look at this stuff? Apparently the locals live on it! Others (mainly the PMT boys), think it tastes like the spaghetti was boiled in toilet water… Guess I’ll find out
What is a tradition at their ballpark?
Every year, millions of baseball fans get excited for opening day around the country. None though, seem to do it quite like the Reds.
Each year, a PARADE is thrown that runs through the city and only finishes when the first game of the season begins. The parade, known as the “Findlay Market Opening Day Parade” has been in existence for over 100 years, and in 1970 was officially declared a holiday in the city!
Who is a famous fan?
Much like their in-state rivals the Cleveland Indians, there is no shortage of famous Cincinnati Reds fans.
From Andy Roddick and Brooklyn Decker, through to David Letterman and NASCAR legend Kurt Busch, there are many who’d rather be Red than dead…. Wait is that ok to say?
But as is tradition on this blog, it’s hard to go past the musical talent. So I’m going with my boy Michael “Flea” Balzary from one of the greatest bands THE RED HOT CHILLI PEPPERS!
Cue the music!
A fun/weird fact about the Reds?
Cincinnati is not only one of the oldest teams, but are also the first team to “go pro” and pay players to play ball for the club.
Because of this, many people feel that Cincinnati is the birthplace of baseball as we know it today!
BONUS FUN FACT:
The Reds mascot is cool. I mean really cool. But again, given the “controversy” around the Reds nickname, is it possible this dude could be mistaken for a Russian Spy? hmmmmmm
BONUS BONUS FUN FACT!
I know we discussed with the White Sox about the gangster connections. But this takes on a whole new meaning with the Reds!
You see, one of the largest street gangs in the United States, “The Bloods” closely identify with the colour red… no surprise then who their favourite team is and which hat they wear to fly their gang colours…..
Thirty before 30 