In response to the challenge of strangers, sport arose as a sublimated representation of a community's armed might as well as its pride of place and clan.
Yes, we've seen it all before. And yes, those who do not study history are condemned to repeat it. But no, the sky is not falling - baseball is such a great game that neither the owners nor the players can kill it. After some necessary carnage, market forces will prevail.
Why we play as children is not because it is our work or because it is how we learn, though both statements are true; we play because we are wired for joy, it is imperative as human beings.
Whatever else I do before finally I go to my grave, I hope it will not be looking after young people.