But how about artificial dirt?
It's no joke at Central Michigan University.
The infield and warning track at the school's stadium are now covered with synthetic dirt.
It's made from crushed lava and other ingredients.
Groundskeeper Guy Smith says the artificial dirt has better footing and truer bounces than clay.
He says it also repels water.
Smith tells a local paper the infield can be ready to play, in as little as a-half hour after a good rain.
But don't expect to see a cloud of dust when a player slides into home.
The synthetic dirt is also dust-free.
