I went to one of those old-school baseball tourneys today, where they play underhanded according to 1864 rules (where one-bounce catches are outs, you can't run through first base and a walk moves baserunners up). There was also 1898 rules, much the same as today, except for no full windups, no big gloves and foul balls not being strikes. Then, there's a whole bunch of years in-between based on frequent rules changes.
It's fascinating baseball, and the teams get into it, with vintage-looking uniforms, umpires dressed in old-time garb (including a cane in the 1864 version) and address each other, most of the times, as "sir" or "gentlemen."
The only drawbacks? The games are interminably long, as it's difficult to catch barehanded, and even a 2-hour (or nine-inning) limit doesn't keep games from getting into the 20s. It's still exciting, and each version requires slightly different strategy. Most of the clubs there seemed to have a specialty. The underhanded game seems to benefit the older player a bit, as the 1890s rules are too allowing of power (pitching and hitting) for a team without some under-30 stars to do well.
Best of all, it allowed me to see in person what Conan O'Brien did. Much recommended for a day of surprisingly quality ball and nostalgia without the hassles.
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