Dad Writes to All MLB Teams About Winning Infant Son's Fanhood, 13 Make a Pitch

Pete Van Vleet lets his children pick their own favorite teams.

After his daughter, Madeline, chose the Detroit Tigers—because they're fierce—a few seasons ago, Van Vleet reached out to all 30 MLB teams about winning the fanhood of Jack, his infant son. 

Van Vleet told PBS NewsHour's Julia Griffin that 13 have responded. Among those trying to win Jack's support:

• The Houston Astros sent tickets.
• The Milwaukee Brewers gave Jack an autographed ball from pitcher Matt Garza.
• The Miami Marlins pitched their mascot.
• Pittsburgh Pirates team president Frank Coonelly mailed a personal letter.
• Washington Nationals manager Dusty Baker sent some baby-sized gear.
• The Chicago Cubs, with perhaps the best move of all, gifted some World Series gear and even made a play for Madeline to come on board.

The first step in Jack's choice is crucial: learning to walk and talk.

After that, it's anyone's game—though Houston will surely get a boost because it's his dad's team.

[PBS]