Bat Facts
A baseball bat is a wooden or aluminum/metal object that is used in the game of baseball. It is used by younger and older players, including those on professional teams around the world.
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Early Bats
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When baseball was emerging as a popular sport in the 1850's, bats came in different shapes and sizes. Some players used bats with a flat surface when bunting. The first regulations on bats were developed in 1859, specifying the diameter.
Louisville Slugger
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One of the most popular brand of bats, the Louisville Slugger, emerged in 1884. John Hillerich, the son of a woodworker, first made a bat for Pete Browning, a professional baseball player, made of white ash.
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Aluminum Bats
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The first patent for aluminum bats was issued in 1924 to William Shroyer, but aluminum bats did not become popular until the 1970's. In amateur and college leagues, metal bats are often allowed.
Material
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Baseball bats are usually made from wood from ash or maple trees. Bats used to be made from hickory, but it is no longer widely used because of its heaviness.
Regulations
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According to Major League Baseball regulations, only wooden bats are allowed. Baseball bats cannot be more than 2.75 inches in diameter and 42 inches in length.
Pine Tar Incident
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On July 24, 1983, a home run was taken away from George Brett of the Kansas City Royals when the umpire determined that the pine tar on his bat went too far up on the handle.
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