I dare not try to describe the appeal of baseball. However, from little league to the majors there are three common elements that delight players and fans alike  – a sense of heritage, a powerful passion and a touch of magic. May the following American-made products (re)inspire your appreciation of the game.

Heritage: The following products help to connect us with the long and storied history of baseball — who and how it was played.

LemonBall - Made in Glen Rock, New Jersey

Meet a true baseball superstar!

Handsome and handmade. The LemonBall is a true standout. Made in much the same way today as the classic lemon peel ball of the 19th century was, this ball is worthy of a pedestal, but it was made for the diamond.

Expertly cut and stitched by former baseball researcher, editor and lifelong sports enthusiast, Paul Cunningham, each LemonBall is meant to be put through its paces (or perhaps, bases). Not only can this ball withstand the rigors of your slider, it is also designed to get better with age.

Cunningham’s LemonBalls are constructed of top quality leather that will develop a rich patina as they are handled. Hard to imagine but your LemonBall will be even more beautiful in the months and years to come than it is the day you get it!

It is not enough to have a ball – you must have a LemonBall!

Available at www.lemonpeelbaseballs.com for $30-35 (depending on choice of leather).

Chetlenham Road – Made in Los Angeles, California

How well do you really know your favorite team? Do you know every starting pitcher? Can you name the top scorers of all-time?

Even if you can’t, you are probably (and rightly) proud of your team’s history. David, the artist behind Chetlenham Road, can help you capture some of that rich heritage and even put it on your table.

David is interested in vintage images, including vintage baseball images. Using these, he makes decoupage coasters that are both nostalgic and practical. Each coaster measures 3.5″ x 3.5″ and has a cork back so it can both be enjoyed and used.

Practical and beautiful. How do you top that? Well, with your beverage of course.

Available on etsy for $16 (set of 4).

Passion: The following products celebrate the devoted baseball fan and are a great way to show undying allegiance without painting your face or getting a tattoo (of course, those are nice options too!).

The Belted Cow – Manufactured in Maine

Worn with shorts, jeans or khakis, this belt will let everyone know that you are a student and fan of the art and history of the game. It’s easy, relaxed style is not preachy, but definitely says you’re serious about both your appearance and your baseball.

Made of ribbon over 100% cotton webbing with classic d-ring closure.

This one’s a cinch.

Available from www.beltedcow.com for $35. (Pattern also available in children’s belt, dog collar and dog leash.)

Josh Bach – Manufactured in New York City, New York

The perfect tie for any type of baseball fan.

The studious fan will wear this tie to study the finger positions depicted in pattern’s different pitches. (Just try not to get caught in a meeting!) The casual fan will wear it because it is a handsome tie, so much more fun than stripes, and is a great conversation piece. (If he just happens to impress anyone with his knowledge of the game, well now that is just a bonus!)

Handcrafted of 100% silk (56″ l x 3.5″ w).

Buttoned-down but unexpected.

Available at www.joshbach.com for $45.

Tervis – Manufactured in North Venice, Florida

What could be smarter than the Tervis MLB Ice Bucket? After all it’s from Tervis. You already know you can rely on the quality of their products and in the dog days of summer don’t you always need another ice bucket? So declare your affection for your favorite team by using this ice bucket everywhere from at-home cookouts and backyard playdates to picnics and tailgates.

The perfect addition to the understated fanatic’s collection.

Available at www.tervis.com for $50.

Magic

The following products capture some of the tastes and smells that make ballparks such places of wonder.

Ferdies - Manufactured in Courtland, Virginia

Since peanuts are an important part of the baseball experience, these are serious peanuts.

For over 35 years the Riddick brothers and their families have been roasting Virginia peanuts in 100% peanut oil. (Their peanuts are OU Kosher Certified.)

In case like me, you are under the false impression that “Virginia peanuts” are simply peanuts grown in Virginia. Here is a little peanut lesson:

First of all, just so we are clear, peanuts are not nuts. Unlike nuts, they do not grow on trees. Instead peanuts are harvested from the ground and as such are legumes (like peas). There are four common types of peanuts — the Runner, the Spanish-type, the Valencia and the Virginia-type.

• Runners are the most common variety and are often used for peanut butter, candy and snacks.
• Spanish peanuts are small and have reddish-brown skin and are often crushed and used as peanut oil due to their higher oil content.
• Valenicas have a bright-red skin and sweet flavor and are often roasted or boiled in the shell.
• Virginias are the largest and crunchiest of all making them the perfect choice for a delicious treat. (Oh! and by the way, they are grown most often in southeastern Virginia or northeastern North Carolina!)

You’d be nuts not to try Ferdies!

Available in salted or unsalted cans — 9 oz for ($5), 18 oz ($9.50), 40 oz ($15).

Dale and Thomas Popcorn – Manufactured in Englewood, New Jersey

Popcorn, Dale and Thomas’, is a delicious way to bring a little of the park home. (Let’s face it Cracker Jack’s cannot be considered a food group! But it is important to note that these classics are still made in the US.)

Using only choice Indiana corn, Dale and Thomas produce gourmet popcorn the Today Show called “the Rolls Royce of popcorn.” Whether your popcorn tastes run toward the simple, the sweet or the savory, one of their 18 flavors is sure to put a smile in your stomach. Actually, Dale and Thomas guarantee it. If you are not happy, let them know.

So good, it will pop your sox off – be they red or white!

Available at www.daleandthomaspopcorn.com. $49.95 for 12-bag Sampler pictured. Features (12) foot-long bags. Each bag is a different flavor and serves 2-4.

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As always, hope you enjoy.

Please let me know what you like, what you’ve tried and/or what you are thinking.