5 Most Popular Sports in Ohio

Ohio has many passionate sports fans, and several popular sports draw large crowds throughout the year. From college football to professional baseball, Ohioans love their teams and support them through thick and thin. Here’s a look at five of the most popular sports in Ohio.

Ohio Pro Sports Teams

NFL

NFL popularity has steadily increased over the last decade in Ohio. This may be thanks to the passionate fan base that comes out in droves for each game or tailgate party and the rising attention given to popular teams across the country.

The state of Ohio also has an expansive betting industry and plentiful sportsbooks, making wagering on the NFL accessible and enjoyable for those who indulge. For example, Ohio Sports Betting statistics show NFL as one of their leading participants in sports betting–illustrating just how much of an Ohio pastime football can be for some individuals.

NHL

The National Hockey League has experienced a surge in popularity and exposure in Ohio, particularly over the past few years. Much of the credit for this surge goes to the institutions and organizations that have become involved in growing the game across the state.

There are multiple avenues through which Ohioans gain access to hockey, from schools and colleges to sports teams and arenas. This exposure has led to increased viewership and enthusiasm for professional games and programs at all levels. As such, it is safe to say that in Ohio, NHL hockey is on the rise regarding presence and attendance.

NBA

The popularity of National Basketball Association (NBA) has become increasingly popular in Ohio over the past few years. With multiple successes of recent and former professional teams, basketball admiration has grown throughout the state. From merchandise to local events and ideals to conversations, it’s hard to find an Ohioan who doesn’t have a connection or includes some aspects of modern-day NBA culture in their lifestyle.

Plenty of aspiring athletes and fans continue to support their favorite teams every day across the state. No matter what time of year it is, basketball will forever remain at the top for sport in many small towns, cities, and states all across America.

MMA

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is becoming increasingly popular in Ohio. With its blend of striking and grappling techniques, MMA delivers an entertainment experience for viewers and an opportunity for enthusiasts to test their skills. As people become more familiar with the martial art and gain access to facilities dedicated to practicing it, the number of passionate practitioners grows every day.

Additionally, due to the state’s large population and diverse culture, many people throughout Ohio are drawn toward MMA for its physical and mental benefits. As a result, MMA is on the upswing in popularity in Ohio, making it an exciting time for aficionados and those interested in trying it out.

Cleveland Guardians

MLB

The state of Ohio has a strong affinity and pride for Major League Baseball. With the great American pastime deeply rooted in the heritage and culture of the Buckeye State, this remains true today. Fans flock to stadiums throughout Ohio during the regular season to cheer for their team and witness thrilling, heart-stopping games as players put their talents and skill on display as part of America’s favorite sport.

With a genuine passion for baseball shining through each home outing, these experiences will surely last in memory long after the final inning is complete. As such, MLB popularity continues to soar among residents of Ohio with no signs of fading any time soon.

Conclusion

From NFL to MMA, Ohio has a wide range of popular sports that bring fans together. The state houses many passionate fans, and its growing attention towards various sports teams across the country continues to attract more followers with each passing day. With this in mind, there is no doubt that Ohio will remain a prime destination for all kinds of sporting activities and entertainment.

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The Cleveland Buzzards? I Could Get Behind That

It hurts my heart to think our baseball team may someday soon be renamed but I’ve heard a couple suggestions that give me a bit of promise. How about the Cleveland Buzzards? #cleveland #indians #buzzards #clevelandindians #clevelandbuzzards

WMMS The Buzzard

What do you think? Should Cleveland rename the Indians? 

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Single Game Tribe Tix on Sale March 6th

Spring training is underway and before you know it our beloved Cleveland Indians will be back on the field! Today the Tribe announced that single game tickets will go on sale March 6th!

Tribe Tix
Photo Credit: The Cleveland Indians

I don’t know about you but I can’t wait for some baseball!

That’s Cleveland Baby

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We’re Underway – It’s Tribe Time!!!

With their 7-4 victory over the Tigers on Monday night, the Indians clinched the 2016 AL Central title and they’re back in the playoffs! This is the first time since the 2013 season the Tribe has been to the post season and the first time since 2007 that they’ve won the division.

I ran across this on Facebook this morning when Carrie Nagy Swain added it as her cover photo.

We're Underway
Photo Credit: Carrie Nagy Swain on Facebook

Indians playoff tickets went on sale the other day and sold out within an hour. Progressive Field should be rocking!

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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The One and Only Kenny Lofton

It’s been pretty Cavs-centric here on the site lately (for obvious reasons) so I figured I’d switch it up a bit. Here’s a pic of an awesome life sized Kenny Lofton “baseball card” that hang in Progressive Field. Too cool!

Kenny Lofton

The Indians won their 11th straight last night and are on their longest winning streak in 34 years. It’s a great time to be a Cleveland sports fan!

Got a Cleveland picture you’d like to see featured? Submit it here!

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Tom Hamilton Signs Contract Extension

If you’re a Cleveland baseball fan, you know Tom Hamilton. You may not know what he looks like, but you DEFINITELY know what he sounds like. Tom is the Voice of the Cleveland Indians and today the Tribe announced that he had signed a new multi-year contract extension. Summers at the corner of Carnegie and Ontario never sounded so good. A SWING AND A DRIVE!!!

Tom Hamilton
Photo Credit: Cleveland Indians

The Home Opener is only 12 days away – are you ready for some baseball?

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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We’re Under Way At The Corner…

With the Super Bowl out of the way it’s time to really start focusing on basketball as the Cavs make a run to the Finals. And don’t forget right around the corner is BASEBALL SEASON! I don’t know about you but I get goosebumps thinking about Tom Hamilton uttering those wonderful words: “We’re under way at the corner of Carnegie and Ontario!”

Progressive Field

Do you have a Cleveland pic you’d like to share? Share it here and we’ll give you full credit!

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Indians Batter Up Game Program

As we head into the fall I figured I’d take a look back at the beginning of a summer past. This is my Opening Day program from the 2013 season opener against the New York Yankees.

Batter Up 2013

Do you have a Cleveland pic you’d like to share? Upload it here!

That’s Cleveland Baby!

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Canal Park – Home Of The Akron RubberDucks

Canal Park is a baseball stadium located in Akron, Ohio, that is the home of the Akron RubberDucks of the Eastern League. The team is a double-A minor-league affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. The stadium takes its name from its location adjacent to the Ohio and Erie Canal, which runs behind the left-field wall.

Canal Park

Do you have a Cleveland pic you’d like to share? Upload it here!

That’s Cleveland (ish) Baby!

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Goodbye Mark Shapiro – Thanks

On August 31, 2015, Mark Shapiro announced that he would take over as President and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays at the end of the 2015 season.  Shapiro has been in the Cleveland Indians organization since 1991. He had worked his way up from player development director to assistant GM, and in 2001 became general manager. Shapiro was named Executive of the Year by the Sporting News in 2005 and 2007. At the end of the 2010 season, he became the Cleveland Indians team president.

Mark Shapiro Indians

Thanks for all of your hard work and dedication to Cleveland for the last 24 years. Toronto is lucky to have you.

That’s Cleveland Baby

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100 Strikeouts Times Four = HISTORY

We’re nearly at the halfway point of the baseball season and I think it’s fair to say that the Indians haven’t quite lived up to expectations. That said there are definitely some bright spots. The Tribe is the first team in MLB history to have 4 pitchers with 100 strikeouts or more before the All-Star break! Congrats to Carlos Carrasco, Corey Kluber, Trevor Bauer & Daniel Salazar on a GREAT first half!

Indians Strikeouts
Photo Credit: Cleveland Indians via Facebook

How do you think the Indians will do in the 2nd half?

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Jason Kipnis – The Lone Tribe All-Star

Tribe second baseman Jason Kipnis was named the lone Indian to represent the American League in the All-Star game. The game will be played on July 14th in Cincinnati at Great American Ball Park.

Jason Kipnis
Photo Credit: Chuck Crow / The Plain Dealer

The game will air at 7:00 PM on Fox.

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Hot Dogs At The Ballpark

There’s something special about an Indians day game. For me, the sights and sounds of the game aren’t complete until I’ve got my hot dogs!

Opening Day Hot Dog

And for the love of everything holy… don’t forget the mustard!!!

Do you have a Cleveland pic you’d like to share? Upload it here!

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Slider Says Hello During A Day Game

It’s a great time to be a Cavs fan, but don’t forget we’ve got a couple of other sports teams here in Cleveland! The Indians had a day game yesterday where they beat the Texas Rangers 12-3. The team’s mascot Slider was in the house and threw a wave at Janine!

Slider Waving To Me
Photo Credit: Janine DeFranco Walsh on Facebook

The Tribe is back in action tonight, this time on the West Coast against the Seattle Mariners at 10:10 PM. Roll Tribe!

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Tribe Turning It Around?

In case you haven’t noticed, and judging by the attendance you haven’t, the Indians have managed to win a few here and there, and are threatening to climb out of the cellar. (Yes, I know they’ve been the road, but any chance to quote Harry Doyle and I’ll take it…) The Indians beat the White Sox last night and finished their road trip winning the final 3 in a row.

Tribe Turning It Around
Credit: @officialclevelandsports on Instagram

The Indians are back in action tonight against the Cincinnati Reds for 3 games and follow that up with 3 against the Texas Rangers before going back on the road. Let’s Go Tribe!

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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34 Years After Perfection

34 years ago today on May 15, 1981, Cleveland Indian Len Barker threw a perfect game at Cleveland Stadium. Baseball seating capacity that season was 76,685.  Official paid attendance was 7,290. Yes somehow you can find about 400,000 Clevelanders that “were there”.  Funny how that works isn’t it? 🙂

Len Barker Perfect Game

Len Barker Perfect Game Lineup Card

Regardless of the attendance, it’s an amazing accomplishment. Congrats Len!

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Throwback Thursday – Chief Wahoo

It’s Throwback Thursday here on That’s Cleveland Baby! The city is revolving around LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers these days, but let’s not forget about our beloved Indians! Remember this guy? Ol Chief Wahoo has taken a lot of flack in recent years and while he’s no longer on our uniforms the way he was he’ll live no in our memories.

Old Chief Wahoo
Photo courtesy Lisa Zone

As I post this, the Tribe is currently sitting in the cellar of the division (They’re shitty again…) but I’ve got hight hopes that they’ll turn it around and give us an exciting summer.

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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Zero Days – Baseball Is Back In Cleveland!

I’ve had this one sitting in my drafts for quite some time now… I’m talking years. And while I’m WAY overdue posting it (even for this season) it’s a shot that I absolutely love. Even though we’re not off to a tremendous start, baseball’s back in Cleveland!

Zero Days

That’s Cleveland Baby!!!

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