Baseball has been played in the United States since the early 1800s. Over the years, the rules of the game have changed, but one thing has remained consistent: the use of mud on baseballs during play. The practice of rubbing mud on baseballs has been used for centuries, but does MLB still rub mud on balls?
History of Rubbing Mud on Baseballs
The practice of rubbing mud onto baseballs dates back to the early 1800s. The custom was used to help keep the ball from becoming too dry and brittle, which could cause it to break or split. It was also thought to improve the grip of the ball, making it easier for pitchers to control their pitches.
In the early years of baseball, the mud used was often taken directly from a local river or stream. It was mixed with water to create a paste-like substance that was then rubbed onto the ball. Over the years, the mud used on baseballs evolved and eventually became a mixture of clay, water, and some other ingredients. This mixture is still used today.
MLB’s Current Rules on Mud
Today, MLB has specific rules and regulations in place regarding the use of mud on baseballs. According to the MLB rulebook, all balls used in play must be rubbed with mud before they are put into play. The mud must be a mixture of clay, water, and some other ingredients, and it must be applied by a designated ball-rubber.
The mud is applied to the baseball in a specific way. It is first rubbed in a circular motion along the seams of the ball, then the ball is flipped over and the process is repeated. Once the ball has been completely rubbed with mud, it is ready to be used in play.
Impact of Mud on Ball Performance
The use of mud on baseballs has been a source of controversy over the years, particularly when it comes to the impact that it has on the performance of the ball. Many people believe that the mud helps the ball to travel farther, while others argue that it has no effect on the ball’s trajectory.
The truth is that the use of mud on baseballs does have an impact on their performance. The mud helps to reduce the amount of friction between the ball and the bat, which makes it easier for the ball to travel farther. Additionally, the mud helps to keep the ball from becoming too dry and brittle, which can cause it to break or split.
Conclusion
To answer the question: does MLB still rub mud on balls? The answer is yes. The practice of rubbing mud on baseballs has been used for centuries and is still used today in MLB. The mud helps to keep the ball from becoming too dry and brittle and also has an impact on the ball’s performance, making it easier for the ball to travel farther.