As a journalist, I can report that Mexico City’s high altitude has long been considered an advantage for the city’s baseball teams. In fact, it’s one of the reasons why the sport has such a strong following in the Mexican capital.

The city sits at an elevation of over 7,000 feet above sea level, which means the air is thinner and contains less oxygen than at lower elevations. This can have a significant impact on athletic performance, especially for endurance sports like running and cycling. However, it also means that baseballs travel farther when hit, leading to more home runs and higher scoring games.

Mexico City’s two professional baseball teams, the Diablos Rojos del México and the Tigres de Quintana Roo, both play their home games at high-altitude stadiums. The Diablos Rojos’ home field, Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú, is located in the city’s Iztacalco neighborhood and sits at an elevation of 7,350 feet above sea level. The Tigres de Quintana Roo play at Estadio Beto Ávila, which is located in the coastal city of Cancún but still sits at a high altitude of 26 feet above sea level.

But it’s not just professional baseball that benefits from Mexico City’s high altitude. The city is also home to a vibrant amateur baseball scene, with numerous leagues and teams scattered throughout the city. And while the sport has faced challenges in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors, baseball remains deeply embedded in the city’s cultural fabric.

Beyond the sport itself, baseball has also had a significant impact on Mexican-American relations. Many Mexican-Americans have played in the major leagues over the years, including legends like Fernando Valenzuela and Vinny Castilla. And in recent years, MLB has made a concerted effort to expand its presence in Mexico, with games played in Mexico City and other Mexican cities.

Of course, playing at high altitude isn’t without its challenges. Athletes who aren’t accustomed to the thinner air can experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. And while the boost in home runs can be exciting for fans, it can also lead to more lopsided games and a less balanced playing field.

Despite these challenges, however, Mexico City’s love for baseball remains strong. And with the sport’s deep roots in the city, it seems likely that it will continue to thrive for years to come.