To prevent swelling in their hands from catching the balls.
Try catching a few dozen major league fastballs and see if your hand doesn't start hurting like hell.
You can use your hands to grab and insect. You can also use bug catchers.
The earliest recorded use of a catchers mitt is in 1870 when a player used a "pair of buckskin mittens" to protect his hands. Traditionally they are made using leather, with a padded inside to reduce the impact.
It is possible. The ice melts in your hands, and if your hands are dirty, the melting ice may wash the germs into the drink.
Thermal energy will flow from your hands to the ice pack, since your hands are warmer than the ice pack. This will cause the ice pack to absorb heat and melt slightly.
Icecream Hands ended in 2008.
Icecream Hands was created in 1992.
Catchers was created in 1993.
Catchers ended in 1999.
Nope.
silly snaking of course!