As an expert in sports analytics, I can provide an informed perspective on the popularity of baseball and soccer in the United States. While baseball has historically been considered America's pastime, the popularity of soccer has been steadily growing, especially among younger demographics. Twenty years ago, baseball was indeed America's No. 1 sport, but the landscape has shifted. Currently, around 3 million kids are involved in U.S. Youth Soccer leagues, which is a significant number. When looking at the age group of 12 to 17 years old, Major League Soccer (MLS) is now more popular than Major League Baseball (MLB). In fact, among that age group, only basketball is more popular than soccer. It's important to note that popularity can be measured in various ways, such as participation, viewership, and merchandise sales. While soccer may be leading in youth participation and popularity among younger audiences, baseball still holds a strong following among older demographics and has a long-standing tradition in the country. In conclusion, the popularity of sports can ebb and flow with time and across different age groups. Currently, soccer is gaining ground, particularly among the youth, but baseball remains a significant part of American sports culture. read more >>

Twenty years ago, baseball not football, was America's No. 1 sport. ... Around 3 million kids play in U.S. Youth Soccer leagues. Among 12- to 17-year-olds, MLS is now more popular than MLB. In fact, among that age group only basketball is more popular.read more >>