If I Was a Major League Baseball Owner...

Usually whenever I watch a baseball game (or whatever game) I start thinking about what I would do if I ran whatever team I am watching. I don't know why I do this, but I do. So I thought it would be fun to daydream about if I was to become a Major League Baseball owner one day,and what I would do.

Feel free to chime in with what you would do, serious or humorous, with the line "If I was a Major League Baseball Owner..." Keep in mind, some of these are serious thoughts, while some are simply wishful humorous thinking.

Enjoy.

Throwback To The Past Day

Make sure every year plan a "Throwback To The Past Day," where fans can come dressed in their vintage and classic shirts, jerseys, caps, and anything else they may have. The players would wear vintage uniforms, from way back. Not just something simple, I mean going all out.

I would have someone design the game's media book to look vintage, like something reminiscent of the 20s or 50s; lower prices on tickets and food; encourage the stadium employees to join in; and even make the umpires participate. If I could, I'd get someone in to reproduce a classic baseball calling, not like the stuff I hear today.

Uniform Pants

Make sure all the uniforms are, well, uniform. It is probably just me and my abnormal self who's bothered or annoyed by this, but I hate when a team has some players who wear their pants like Jeter (left in picture) and others who wear theirs like Rodriguez.

At first I didn't like the pants like Rodriguez, because I usually think of softball players because they wear their pants like that. But the pants and socks combo is a nod to the history of the game. I like both ways (but Jeter's way the best), but wish a team could match.

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/largodeb/2362146384/

Only The Number We Shall See

Speaking of uniforms, no player shall have their name on the back of the jersey. Numbers only. Remember - "the name on the front of the jersey is more important than the name on the back."

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/andrewwinn/3649446006/

Make Passionate Fans

Encourage, encourage, encourage, fans to take the game to the next level and really make the atmosphere. I love fans like the Bleacher Creatures with their singing and Roll Call. If my team has any traditions, I will encourage fans. If there's none, it's time to start doing something. I want my stadium to be something opposing players talk about.

The Stadium

As for my stadium, clean it up and renovate if necessary. And pay close attention to details. And bathrooms! I hate using dirty public restrooms. Mine's would be spotless, mostly. Make the stadium something people want to see and be at, in addition to the game.

And if I'm downtown (which I hope to be or close to), have good surrounding area with plenty to do and public transit for those who don't or can't drive to games. Something like the Chicago Cubs and not the Texas Rangers or LA Dodgers. (No offense to those two teams).

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/devonhaupt/2916580045/

The Community

I will definitely support the community and local baseball/softball scene. I'd try to lower the prices at the ballpark because I know food prices are ridiculous! Family nights need to be there every season. It's a great opportunity for parents and kids to bond and share the baseball knowledge.

While we're at it, a teenager's night would be cool too. All the promotions seem to be targeted towards young kids, so I'd have stuff for adults and teens too. And I'd add plenty of promotional nights and contests; people love free stuff.

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/36096151@N03/3344204219/

Minor League Teams

Building the team is important and I'd make sure my minor league teams are in great shape. I'd also try to grow my own talent and hopefully produce someone with the likes of Derek Jeter, who has came from the Yankees' farm system and now plays for them. I like that.

Team of Champions

Build an All-Star roster who can hopefully become a dynasty or empire like the great teams of the past.

I know, easier said than done. But we're dreaming, remember?

Money Can't Buy Happiness

Lastly, have fun! I'm already wealthy enough so I would be that one crazy owner who puts the team and fans before money. I don't want to make a profit at the expense of the loyal fans. Money isn't everything. It's nice though, but not everything.