2012 MLB Season Will Be One of the Most Memorable in Years

With balmy weather stretching the nation, and Opening Day just a few days past, baseball fanatics have slowly readied minds and spirits for the pleasures of America’s pastime. In a rare episode, the birds have migrated northward before the boys of summer could reach the cities they play in. And outdoor stadiums, used to enduring winter’s wrath have enjoyed reprieve. The past few days have witnessed baseball's return, bringing with it breathtaking ballpark views, thunderous roar of crowds and the soul-soothing waft of fresh cut grass and ready to devour hot dogs.

For some reason, this baseball season seems especially special. In Little Havana, the Marlins have opened their super cool ballpark to an ecstatic fanbase. And the Orioles celebrated the 20th anniversary of the grand opening of their beautiful brick and mortar yard. Steven Strasburg started opening day in his return from Tommy John surgery. And Prince Fielder followed in his father’s footsteps, bringing new memories for young Tiger fans, and bringing back glorious memories of Cecil for older Tiger fans.

Even more intriguing, this season brings with it a breed of young players and prospects who could rocket professional baseball to even greater heights. Eric Hosmer has had a terrific spring training for a Royals team that is primed to make waves in the American League Central. As has Brandon Belt, who seems to have put a difficult first season behind him. Add exciting names like Bryce Harper, Jose Iglesias, Mike Trout and now Bubba Starling to the mix, and baseball seems to house a healthy mix of generations across the game.

But for all the talk of new stadiums and rising superstars, there seems to be something especially special about this upcoming season. Fans I have spoken with seem to agree. Perhaps it is the nice weather. After all, April is usually marked by cold that reddens noses and stings batted hands. Maybe it is the thought that, for a first time in a long time, prognosticators have not one iota of a clue who will win the World Series. Like Navy Seals, many try, but most fail.  Or perhaps it is just the fact that baseball is as strong as it has ever been, and sunny skies blended with unprecedented parity has made most of us feel like kids once again.

James Morisette is the Founder and President of the Basebook Social Network (http://www.basebook.mobi). He can be reached at [e-mail]