True sports fan understand the uselessness, yet endless appeal of statistics. The Baseball Project’s driving orchestral rock opener spouts what must be construed as an ironic play from this baseball-loving band—R.E.M.’s Peter Buck and Mike Mills, R.E.M. sideman and The Minus 5 mainstay Scott McCaughey, Steve Wynn and Zuzu’s Petals Linda Pitmon. In fact, 3rd is quirky throughout in exploring America’s favorite pastime and its characters. There’s acid-taking pitcher Doc Ellis, Braves star Dale Murphy, homerun hero Hank Aaron, baseball cards, box scores, and of course, a rousing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” Musically, one should expect nothing less than solid, jangly pop songs with edgy guitars, uplifting organ swells and compelling hooks. “Monument Park” is a bit ballad-y, but otherwise this is a fun, seriously tongue-in-cheek affair.