Baseball is one of the most popular sports in the US, and Major League Baseball (MLB) is the highest level of professional baseball in the country. As such, MLB players take their equipment very seriously and use a variety of products to keep their bats in prime condition. One of the most overlooked aspects of the game is the use of bat sprays. These sprays are used to reduce friction and keep the bats from breaking, as well as improve performance. This article will explore what do MLB players spray on their bats, the different types of bat sprays available, and the benefits they provide.
What Is Bat Spray?
Bat sprays are liquid products that are specifically designed to help protect and maintain wooden bats. The sprays are typically made of a combination of mineral oils, waxes, and other lubricants. The most popular bat sprays are usually made of a combination of paraffin wax, mineral oil, and silicone.
The sprays are designed to create a glossy, protective layer on the bat’s surface. This layer helps to reduce friction and prevent the bat from cracking and breaking. The sprays also help to keep the bat from becoming too sticky, which can cause the ball to stick to the bat. This can lead to a decrease in power and accuracy.
Benefits of Bat Spray
Bat sprays are beneficial for a variety of reasons. The most obvious benefit is the protection they provide against cracking and breaking. The protective layer these sprays create helps to reduce friction, which can help to prevent the bat from becoming damaged. Additionally, the waxes and oils in the sprays help to keep the bat from becoming too sticky, which can lead to a decrease in performance.
The waxes and oils also help to keep the bat’s weight and balance consistent. This can lead to improved performance, as the bat will remain consistent throughout the game. Additionally, the lubricants in the sprays help to reduce vibration, which can lead to improved accuracy and power. Finally, the sprays help to keep the bat looking clean and shiny, which can help to improve the player’s confidence.
Types of Bat Sprays
There are a variety of different types of bat sprays available on the market. The most popular type of spray is a combination of wax, mineral oil, and silicone. This type of spray is designed to create a protective layer on the bat’s surface, reduce friction, and keep the bat from becoming too sticky.
Additionally, there are sprays specifically designed for aluminum and composite bats. These sprays are designed to reduce the vibration caused by hitting the ball, which can lead to improved accuracy. Finally, there are sprays designed for wooden bats that are specifically formulated to reduce friction and keep the bat from cracking and breaking.
Conclusion
Bat sprays are an important tool for MLB players looking to keep their bats in prime condition. The sprays are designed to create a protective layer on the bat’s surface, reduce friction, and keep the bat from becoming too sticky. Additionally, the waxes and oils in the sprays help to keep the bat’s weight and balance consistent, which can lead to improved performance. Finally, the sprays help to keep the bat looking clean and shiny, which can help to improve the player’s confidence. With all these benefits, it is no wonder why MLB players use bat sprays.