Who Owns That Magical Piece of Wood?
So, you’re wondering who owns the bat that turned Babe Ruth into a home run king, right? Let's dive into the world of baseball's most iconic brand: Louisville Slugger.
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| What Company Owns Louisville Slugger |
The Slugger's Saga
You might think, "Louisville Slugger? That's gotta be a local Kentucky company, right?" Well, you're half right. The magic happens in Louisville, but the ownership story takes a twist.
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Hillerich & Bradsby is the name you need to remember. These folks are the original bat-slingers, the ones who crafted the first Louisville Slugger back in the 1800s. They've been shaping wood into baseball dreams ever since.
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But here's the plot twist: In 2015, Wilson Sporting Goods decided it couldn't resist the allure of the Slugger. They swooped in and bought the brand, making Louisville Slugger part of their sports empire.
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So, while Hillerich & Bradsby still handles the bat-making magic in Louisville (thank goodness!), Wilson is the boss calling the shots. It's like your favorite local bakery getting bought by a giant food corporation. The bread still tastes amazing, but there's a new CEO.
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The Bat That Launched a Thousand Home Runs
It's a classic tale of a young, baseball-obsessed apprentice, a slumping star player, and a stroke of genius. Bud Hillerich, the teenage son of the shop owner, crafted a custom bat for Pete Browning, a struggling baseball player. Browning crushed it with the new bat, and the rest is history.
That's how the legend of Louisville Slugger was born. From humble beginnings in a woodworking shop to being swung by baseball greats like Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, and Derek Jeter, it's a story straight out of a sports movie.
Fun fact: The world's largest baseball bat is located in Louisville, Kentucky. It's a whopping 120 feet tall and weighs over 68,000 pounds. Talk about a home run!
How to... Louisville Slugger Edition
- How to choose a Louisville Slugger: Consider your batting style, weight preference, and desired length. Visit a sporting goods store for personalized recommendations.
- How to break in a new Louisville Slugger: Use a bat wrap or lizard skin for better grip. Hit soft toss or soft-pitched balls to gradually soften the wood.
- How to care for your Louisville Slugger: Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity. Store it in a bat bag or case when not in use.
- How to tell a fake Louisville Slugger: Look for authentic logos, wood grain patterns, and the bat's weight and balance.
- How to visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Check the museum's website for hours, ticket information, and guided tour options.
So, there you have it! The next time you see a baseball game, take a moment to appreciate the history behind that wooden wonder in the batter's hands. And remember, even if Wilson is the boss, Louisville Slugger is still the heart and soul of baseball.
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