Randall on Baseball

Rick Randall is a Stanwood resident whose passions include his wife and children... and baseball. Beginning with his first Little League baseball game, Randall has been immersed in the sport on all levels. He shares his thoughts with other fan-atics on his blog and in his column in North County Outlook.

Spring baseball leagues have formed and baseball-loving kids in the area are rushing out into the Pacific Northwest sunshine with their friends and classmates turned teammates to play some baseball!

Wait...did I say sunshing?

Yes, it's true; this is actually spring - though the weather of the recently completed winter would have suited outdoor baseball much more. So working around the rainouts, what is the best way to get your kids ready to play outside in the not-so-hot weather?

Here are a few common-sense tips to make sure your kids enjoy this experience the best they can without having to worry about the weather.

Layers: Every kid loves putting on his uniform, but that doesn't mean he has to wear only the uniform. Show your child how to layer underneath the uniform, with a long sleeve undershirt (matching team colors, of course), sliding shorts or even long johns - hey, it is cold - and always think about two pairs of socks.

The right equipment: Batting gloves are also a good idea. They not only work to keep their hands warm, but they also can take some of the sting out of those none-to-pleasant experiences of getting jammed with an aluminum bat. Brings back memories, huh?

Baseball players wear hats, and not only can the hat keep your head and face dry, it also helps keep in your body heat (although you don't truly lose the high percentage of body heat through your head that old wives' tales used to claim).

The right attitude: Last but not least, remind them that this is Washington. If they love baseball and want to play it, this is the weather they are going to have to learn to play in: embrace it! Playing in the rain builds character!

So let's all get out there, and who cares if it's sprinkling and a little chilly - they're kids. Let them play, and let them enjoy baseball and their muddy, glorious childhood.