When it comes to America’s favorite pastime, baseball, the type of baseball used is a crucial element that often goes unnoticed by fans. Major League Baseball (MLB) has stringent regulations on the baseballs used in games to ensure fairness and consistency. So, what brand of baseballs are used in MLB games?
The official baseball supplier for MLB is Rawlings. Rawlings has been the exclusive provider of baseballs for MLB since 1977, and their baseballs are carefully crafted to meet the standards set by the league. Each baseball used in an MLB game is made to exact specifications to ensure uniformity and performance on the field.
Rawlings constructs their baseballs with a core made of cork and rubber, which is then surrounded by layers of wool and polyester/cotton yarn. The leather cover of the baseball is made from full-grain cowhide and is hand-stitched to perfection. This meticulous construction process ensures that each baseball used in an MLB game is of the highest quality.
The baseballs used in MLB games are slightly different from the ones used in other leagues or levels of play. MLB baseballs have a slightly higher seam height, which allows pitchers to have better control and movement on their pitches. The raised seams also help batters grip the ball better, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Rawlings produces two types of baseballs for MLB games: the official game ball and the practice ball. The official game ball is used exclusively during games and is subject to strict quality control measures to maintain consistency. On the other hand, practice balls are used during warm-ups and batting practice sessions.
In addition to the construction of the baseball itself, MLB also has regulations on the storage and handling of baseballs during games. Umpires are responsible for inspecting and rubbing down each baseball before it is put into play to ensure that it meets the league’s standards. The rubbing process helps remove the slickness of the ball and gives pitchers a better grip.
Furthermore, MLB teams are required to store baseballs in a climate-controlled environment to maintain their quality. Extreme temperatures can affect the performance of the baseballs, so teams take special care to store them properly before games.
Rawlings works closely with MLB to ensure that the baseballs used in games meet the league’s standards and specifications. The partnership between Rawlings and MLB has led to innovations in baseball manufacturing, resulting in high-quality baseballs that are used in professional games around the world.
So, the next time you watch an MLB game, pay attention to the baseball being used on the field. It may seem like a small detail, but the brand of baseball used can have a significant impact on the game. Rawlings’ dedication to quality and consistency has made them the trusted supplier of baseballs for MLB, ensuring that every game is played with the best equipment available.