Expert: Steve L - 7/6/2004

Question
I've notices signs that read "No Pepper Games" stenciled on the walls at several ballparks.  They look like they're intended for the players, not the fans.  What is the game of pepper and why is it FORBIDDEN?

tks

kw

Answer
A Pepper Game is a warm-up exercise in which players standing a short distance from a batter field the ball and toss it to the batter, who hits each toss back to the fielders.

Because players stand VERY CLOSE to the batter, there is a chance that an inexperienced fan playing the game could be hurt by a batted ball.  It should only be played by experienced players who have quick reflexes.