Best Snacks for Baseball Players: Fueling Performance on and off the Field
Baseball has long been a sport rich in tradition, and that extends to what players snack on during games. In the past, players were often seen chewing on simple staples like sunflower seeds, chewing gum, or even tobacco. These snacks became synonymous with the sport, offering something to do during long stretches in the dugout or while on the field.
As nutrition becomes increasingly important in sports, the best snacks for baseball players now include options that boost energy and support performance. While sunflower seeds and gum remain iconic, modern players are also turning to protein-packed snacks like beef jerky, fruit snacks, and trail mix to maintain energy levels and stay focused throughout the game.
The shift from tradition to performance-driven snacks reflects a greater awareness of how nutrition can impact in-game performance and recovery. Here’s a look at both the classic and contemporary snacks that baseball players are known to enjoy during the game.
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#10: Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has become a popular snack among athletes for its high protein content and probiotics that aid in digestion. It’s a great way to stay full between innings, and players often top it with granola or fruit for added energy. Jacob deGrom has been known to enjoy Greek yogurt during games, keeping his nutrition on point while managing his performance on the mound.
#9: Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are one of the most iconic snacks in baseball history. Players can be seen spitting shells from the dugout or outfield, and while they’re fun to snack on, they also provide a boost of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Players like Bryce Harper continue to make sunflower seeds a staple, keeping tradition alive while getting a healthy crunch during games.
#8 Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds, often roasted with a bit of salt, are packed with magnesium, protein, and healthy fats. These seeds offer a satisfying crunch while providing long-lasting energy without the heaviness of some other snacks. Players like Mookie Betts turn to pumpkin seeds for a nutritious, on-the-go option that helps maintain focus during long games.
#7: Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks are the perfect quick, sweet pick-me-up for players needing a fast burst of energy. These chewy treats are lightweight and easy to stash in the dugout, making them ideal for in-game snacking. Even Anthony Rizzo enjoys popping a few fruit snacks to stay energized during long summer games, offering a fun and flavorful alternative to salty snacks.
#6: Granola Bars
Granola bars are a perfect on-the-go snack for players who need a quick energy boost. Packed with carbs, fiber, and sometimes a bit of protein, they’re easy to eat between innings and provide sustained energy without weighing players down. Whether it’s the classic oat and honey or something with a little more flair, like chocolate and peanut butter, granola bars have become a popular dugout snack. Trea Turner has been known to grab one to keep his energy steady during those fast-paced games.
#5: Trail Mix
Trail mix is a great combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, offering players a versatile snack that fuels them with long-lasting energy. The mixture of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit makes it easy to snack on during breaks, and the variety ensures it never gets boring. Some players, like Nolan Arenado, prefer trail mix for its ability to keep them feeling full and ready to perform, especially during doubleheaders.
#4: Dried Fruit
Dried fruit, like apricots, raisins, or mango, is a sweet, nutrient-packed snack that’s easy to eat during a game. It’s loaded with natural sugars and vitamins, giving players an energy boost without the crash that comes from processed snacks. Mookie Betts is known for keeping some dried fruit on hand to give him quick energy while staying light on his feet in the outfield.
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#3: Peanut Butter Crackers
Peanut butter crackers provide the perfect balance of carbs and protein, giving players a satisfying snack to munch on between innings. These crunchy, salty treats keep players full and fueled, making them a staple in dugouts everywhere. Aaron Judge, known for his strength and power, has been seen reaching for peanut butter crackers to stay energized during games.
#2: Pepitas
Pepitas, also known as pumpkin seeds, are becoming more popular in the baseball world. Loaded with magnesium, iron, and protein, these seeds offer a crunchy, nutrient-dense snack that keeps players energized. Christian Yelich, always mindful of what he eats to stay in top form, is known to grab a handful of pepitas during games for that extra fuel and satisfying crunch.
#1: Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is the ultimate no-fuss, protein-packed snack for baseball players looking to refuel during a long game. It’s easy to stash in the dugout and provides a savory hit of flavor without weighing you down. Giancarlo Stanton has been spotted munching on beef jerky during games to keep his strength and focus sharp through nine innings.
