There is a distinctive difference between Japanese, Chinese, and other Asian cultures forms of baseball. These games are more based on slap hitting and deceptive pitching, however the Australian form of the game is more of the United States style of play. The reason that this is, is that many players go to Australia and play during the winter months, those who are fighting for Minor League Baseball spots. The ABL has become a haven for many players trying to revitalize their careers, guys in their late 20s early 30s who just frankly want to play ball. The league is on the same level as that of an Independent League baseball would be. This style of baseball can be seen via the MLB Network during the winter months, when they show the ABL Playoffs. Though the stands aren't as packed as a MLB ballpark would be, though the players aren't as talented, it is still baseball. Teams such as the Perth Heat, have shown that they have the ability to compete with some MLB teams. The game shows the strength and potential for a future of a worldwide baseball league.
American teams going overseas allows the idea of baseball to grow, especially in an area such as Australia. The Dodgers and Diamondbacks will allow individuals from different countries to view the American style of ball, and the strong players that these teams offer. Players such as Puig and Goldschmidt will bring a sense of excitement to those who come out to view these MLB teams take action. This different style of play, such as immense hustle , homerun hitting abilities, and strikeout pitching will help the game of baseball to grow and become a world sport once again. Strides have been made with the creation of things such as the World Baseball Classic, to help spread baseball. However, nothing compares to American baseball, with American teams playing in front of a foreign people. This is what makes the game exciting, and hopefully will help it grow.
With baseball growing in countries such as Australia, Japan, China, Mexico and Korea. Thoughts begin to grow about the future of baseball, and the possibility of a Worldwide Baseball League. The NFL and NBA are both trying to spread throughout the world, with the NFL playing more games overseas in the upcoming season then ever before. The NBA is even hoping to have a foreign team in the near future as well. The world of sport is looking to expand, past the levels of the Olympic Games and the World Baseball Classic. Rather then have people representing their countries, a world league would allow players to be traded with other teams in other countries. This would create several different leagues, rather then just a National and American League. A league like this would allow an actual "World Series", because the best of the best would be competing for the same title. The growing of sport throughout the world is allowing this dream to become more of a reality for baseball fans everywhere.
-Brett
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