see its one thing to have an opinion, but its whack to have a miscontrued opinion, such as yours.
You say that baseball requires no athletic ability. Yes, you said that directly. And certianly during many games, and many innings, there isn't too much going on. But it is quitessential that a player, regardless of position, can react at the drop of a dime, whether on defense or offense. Games change drastically in a split second, and atheleticism really comes into play. It can be running to first, second, third, home, whatever, it could be chasing down a ball in the infield or outfield, where every aspect of time is crucial, so running, throwing, reactions, etc., all are crucial. This may not be the most eloquent argument, but really there shouldn't be one.
If the pitcher is doing his job, most of the time there isn't too much going on. But when shit does happen, like I said, athleticism, as well as precision and skill, are what make or break a game.