Pesapallo is the Finnish version of baseball and also known as the national sport of Finland. This is a fast-moving game in which players zigzag between bases. Technique, strategy and physical strength are traits required for play. Pesapallo is primarily enjoyed in Finland, but it has a presence in the following countries as well:
- Germany
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Australia
- Canada
History of Pesapallo
A Finnish student who studied in America is credited with introducing pesapallo to Finland in 1922. While in America, this student also became acquainted with baseball. She revised that sport to establish modern-day pesapallo.
Ball batting games can be traced in Finland as far back as the 17th Century. However, none were as well received as pesapallo. Professional pesapallo leagues were established throughout Finland during the 1940s and 1950s. In 1992, the first World Cup of Pesapallo was held in Helsinki.
Overview of Pesapallo
This game, on the surface, appears much like American baseball. Those elements shared between the two sports are as follows:
- The infield is comprised of three out-bases and a home-base.
- Offensive players use a bat to hit a ball pitched to them and then run from base to base in order to score a run.
- Nine defensive players are on the field during play.
- Traditional baseball equipment of helmet, glove, ball and spikes is employed by players.
The rules and strategies of pesapallo are vastly different from baseball. This includes most elements, from the layout of the bases to the way in which outs occur. Also unique is the scoring of runs, the strategy of batters, the way the ball is pitched to batters and the strike zone. Moreover, pesapallo games are played in two periods of four innings. As such, pesapallo is quite singular among other sports.
Betting Options for Pesapallo
Betting online for pesapallo games is similar to that of other sports. An individual can review odds for a championship pesapallo team and then place a wager accordingly. Online betting sites that feature pesapallo wagers are increasing in number. This is a result of the growing popularity of pesapallo.
Odds as to which Finland team will win season playoffs are available for betting enthusiasts every year. The World Cup of Pesapallo is played every three years. Odds that pertain to the World Cup champion are available in the same year that the Cup is scheduled.
