Eye black is a grease or wax substance used by athletes to reduce glare and reflections that can disrupt their vision. It is often made of beeswax, paraffin, or a mixture of vegetable oils, and is applied in a thin strip across the bridge of the nose and below the eyes. It has been used by athletes in many different sports, including baseball, football, lacrosse, and soccer.
History of Eye Black
Eye black has been used by athletes for centuries, as far back as the ancient Greeks. The Greeks believed that smearing a black substance on the face would give athletes an advantage over their opponents, and it was a common practice in the Olympic Games. Over time, this practice spread to other sports, and by the 19th century it was being used by football and baseball players in the United States.
Eye Black in the MLB
Eye black has become an iconic part of Major League Baseball (MLB). It is often used by players to make a statement, show team spirit, or just look cool. Some of the most famous MLB players to wear eye black include Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Ted Williams.
Types of Eye Black Used in MLB
The most common type of eye black used in the MLB is a black, semi-transparent grease that is applied directly to the skin. This type of eye black is often made of beeswax, paraffin, or a combination of vegetable oils. It is applied by rubbing it on with a fingertip, and it is easy to remove with soap and water.
Another type of eye black used in the MLB is a non-greasy, adhesive strip that is applied directly to the skin. This type of eye black is often made of a synthetic material, such as rubber, and is applied by pressing it onto the skin. It is more difficult to remove than the greasy type and usually requires a solvent, such as rubbing alcohol, to remove it.
Benefits of Eye Black for MLB Players
The primary benefit of eye black for MLB players is its ability to reduce glare and reflections that can disrupt their vision. By blocking out bright light, eye black can help players better focus on the ball and pick up on subtle details that might otherwise be missed. It can also help players better track the ball while running or batting.
Eye black can also help reduce sweat in the eyes, which can cause irritation and blur vision. By blocking out sweat, eye black can help keep players’ eyes dry and focused.
Eye black can also be used for aesthetic purposes. Many MLB players use eye black to make a statement, show team spirit, or look cool. It has become an iconic part of the game, and many fans recognize it as a sign of a true MLB player.
Eye Black Regulations
MLB players are allowed to wear eye black, but there are certain regulations they must follow. According to the MLB Official Rules, eye black must be applied in a single, solid color and cannot have any designs, symbols, or lettering. It must also be applied in a thin strip across the bridge of the nose and below the eyes.
In addition, eye black must be applied in a manner that does not unduly interfere with the pitcher’s view of the batter. If a pitcher feels that a batter’s eye black is interfering with their view, the umpire may ask the batter to remove the eye black.
Popular MLB Eye Black Brands
There are many different brands of eye black that are popular among MLB players. Some of the most popular brands include:
• Rawlings: Rawlings is a popular brand of eye black that is designed to reduce glare and reflections. It is made of beeswax and paraffin, and is easy to apply and remove.
• Wilson: Wilson is another popular brand of eye black that is made of a synthetic material and is applied with an adhesive strip. It is designed to stay on longer than traditional eye black and is more difficult to remove.
• Under Armour: Under Armour is a popular brand of eye black that is designed to reduce sweat and irritation. It is applied with an adhesive strip and is designed to stay on longer than traditional eye black.
• Mizuno: Mizuno is a popular brand of eye black that is designed to reduce glare and reflections. It is made of a combination of beeswax and vegetable oils, and is easy to apply and remove.
Conclusion
Eye black has been used by athletes for centuries, and it is an iconic part of Major League Baseball. It can help reduce glare and reflections, reduce sweat in the eyes, and make a statement. MLB players are allowed to wear eye black, but there are certain regulations they must follow. There are many different brands of eye black that are popular among MLB players, such as Rawlings, Wilson, Under Armour, and Mizuno.