why do baseball players chew gum

Baseball players chew gum for several important reasons: to maintain focus and concentration during slow parts of the game, to reduce stress and tension in high-pressure moments, and to keep their mouths moist, especially on dry or dusty fields. Chewing gum also helps remove the gritty taste of dirt that players often get from sliding on the field. Additionally, chewing gum has largely replaced chewing tobacco, which was once common but is now banned due to health concerns. Many players also have personal routines or superstitions involving gum chewing, making it a deeply ingrained part of baseball culture.