The practice involves a spoken or unspoken supplication, often group-led, that occurs proximate to the commencement of a baseball contest. These invocations frequently petition for safety, fair play, and sportsmanship for all participants involved in the impending athletic competition. An example might be a team kneeling together in their dugout moments before the first pitch, listening to their coach or a designated player offer a few words of hope and protection.
This pre-game ritual can provide a sense of unity and shared purpose among team members, fostering camaraderie and a positive mental state. Historically, such customs reflect the incorporation of personal beliefs into the sporting environment, creating a framework of values that extends beyond the pursuit of victory. These moments of reflection may serve to alleviate pre-game anxieties and promote a spirit of respect amongst competitors.