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Rangers Fan Dad Helpfully Explains the Finer Points of Playoff Fandom

This Rangers fan helpfully explained to his son how to cheer during a playoff game.

Dan Gartland

Rangers Fan Dad Helpfully Explains the Finer Points of Playoff Fandom
Rangers Fan Dad Helpfully Explains the Finer Points of Playoff Fandom /
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An MLB playoff game is an unforgettable experience for a kid. The atmosphere is so much more energetic than a regular season game, and being part of that raucous crowd is a ton of fun—especially for young fans. But because it’s way different from attending a game in the middle of July, there are different expectations for fans, and sometimes kids need to be wisened up to proper playoff etiquette. 

During Game 3 of the ALCS on Wednesday between the Astros and Rangers in Arlington, Fox’s cameras captured a man and a young boy—apparently a father and son—sharing some baseball knowledge. The kid wanted to cheer and wave his rally towel, but the dad helpfully let him know that it wasn’t the time to get loud. 

“Not with two strikes,” the dad said. 

Look at the fans sitting around them, nervously waiting to see if the at-bat would turn out in their favor. The kid was bringing an energy more suited to the home team being ahead in the count, or a home pitcher on the verge of getting out of an inning. His heart was in the right place, but it wasn’t the right time for it. 

It was a small moment, but it got plenty of kudos from fans on social media. 

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Dan Gartland
DAN GARTLAND

Dan Gartland is the writer and editor of Sports Illustrated’s flagship daily newsletter, SI:AM, covering everything an educated sports fan needs to know. He joined the SI staff in 2014, having previously been published on Deadspin and Slate. Gartland, a graduate of Fordham University, is a former Sports Jeopardy! champion (Season 1, Episode 5).

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