Is there anything more American than baseball on the 4th of July? You've got America's pastime on America's birthday with banners that are star-spangled, hot dogs, beer (American), and public ridicule towards opponents. Francis Scott Key would be proud.

Here are a couple of interesting tid-bits that weave the sport and the day together:

-the US government declared the 4th a federal holiday in 1941. Coincidentally, that's the same year that Joe DiMaggio had his 56-game hitting streak. That record still stands. It's also the same year that Ted Williams finished the season with a batting average of .406. He's the last guy to hit .400.

-better known fact; Lou Gehrig gave his "Luckiest Man" speech on July 4th, 1939 in Yankee Stadium.

So take in a ballgame, hammer down a dog, and feel that patriotism flow through you this weekend. Personally, it's my grandfather's birthday, so the 4th has always had extra special meaning to me.

Have a safe holiday.