Is Baseball Still America’s Favorite Pastime? [SURVEY]

Is baseball still America's favorite pastime?  You know-- baseball, hot dogs, and apple pie? While the sport remains popular-across the nation and around the world, it just feels like there is some waning interest. Why could this be?

For the sake of this discussion, we are primarily talking about major league baseball.Attendance at major league parks is down so far this season, although it's not a huge decline- about 2%. The reasons for that could be varied. It could be other diversions that are competing for the attention of sports fans. It certainly could be an economic factor. Everyone knows it's not cheap to take your family to a big league game. Not even counting gas, parking, and concessions, ticket prices at a Colorado Rockies' game range from $15 - $72. Multiple that number by 4, or 5, or 6 and it's a good little wad of cash.

Of course, there's the idea that by the time you get to the all-star break, half the teams in the league have essentially been eliminated from post-season consideration. That can definitely squelch fan interest.

In Grand Junction, a couple thousand fans are coming out for $10 a ticket to see the minor league Rockies.

Over the last 10 years, television viewing of baseball has seen significant declines across all networks that carry major league baseball. Who has three hours to sit and watch a game that is moving along at a snail's pace?

The home run derby is tonight. Do you know who is competing? My guess is, no.  Here's the list. Prince Fielder, Chris Davis, David Wright, Bryce Harper, Robinson Cano, Pedro Alvarez, Yoenis Cespedes, and Michael Cuddyer. Casual baseball fans like me probably recognize Cuddyer from the Colorado Rockies, and know that Bryce Harper plays for the Washington Nationals. Beyond that, uh, no clue.

Then there's the matter of Tuesday night's all-star game between the National League and the American League. Will you be watching? Do you know where it's being played? Do you know what network carries the game? Do you care? For me, the answer to all of the above questions is "no".

Here's the deal. I used to  be a big baseball fan. For years, I was a die hard Cincinnati Reds' fan. Somewhere along the way my interest began to wane, and finally got to the point where I just didn't care and stopped following them. For me, a lot of it has had to do with the labor disputes, player strikes, and the ridiculous amounts of money that superstars play for.

Yes, I still root for the Rockies - Colorado and Grand Junction. I want them to win - and generally I want to know how they fared last night. But, to call myself a true fan - a true blue baseball fan, I just can't do it. I'm not the fan I once was. And from all indications, I'm not alone.

Baseball, hot dogs, and apple pie.....I still love hot dogs.