Baseball players have been using a black substance known as “stickum” for decades to improve their grip on their bats and to help them swing the bat with more force. Stickum is a sticky substance that is applied to the bat handle or the player’s hands in order to increase friction and improve the grip. Stickum is a very popular product among baseball players, but what is it exactly and how does it work? In this article, we will discuss what stickum is and how it can help baseball players improve their game.
History of Stickum
Stickum has been used by baseball players since the late 1800s. It was originally used to help players grip the bat more securely, but it was soon discovered that it also had the potential to increase the power of a swing. Stickum was first developed in the US by a company called Rawlings in the late 1880s. The company began producing the product in various forms and sizes, and it quickly became a popular tool for baseball players.
Types of Stickum
There are several different types of stickum available on the market today. Most stickum products are made from a combination of paraffin wax, petroleum jelly, and other ingredients. These ingredients create a sticky, oily substance that can be applied to the bat handle or the player’s hands to increase friction and improve grip. In addition to the traditional stickum products, there are also newer products on the market that use a combination of synthetic rubber and adhesive to create a stickier and more durable grip.
Benefits of Stickum
Stickum can be beneficial to baseball players in several ways. The most obvious benefit is that it helps the player get a better grip on the bat, which can improve their performance at the plate. With a better grip, players can swing the bat harder and more accurately, which can lead to more success in the game. Stickum can also help reduce the risk of injury as it helps to keep the bat handle from slipping in the player’s hands. Finally, stickum can help to keep the bat handle from becoming slippery due to sweat or other moisture, which can lead to a better overall performance.
Potential Drawbacks of Stickum
Although stickum can be beneficial to a baseball player’s performance, there are some potential drawbacks to using it as well. For one, stickum can be difficult to clean off of the bat or the player’s hands, as it can be quite sticky and can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Additionally, stickum can leave a residue on the bat or the player’s skin, which can be irritating or cause allergies. Finally, stickum can be messy and it can be difficult to apply evenly, which can lead to an uneven grip on the bat.
Stickum Regulations
Although stickum can be beneficial to a baseball player’s performance, it is important to note that it is not allowed in professional baseball. Major League Baseball (MLB) has banned the use of stickum, as it is considered to be a form of cheating. Stickum can be used in some amateur leagues, however, it is important to check with the league’s rules and regulations before using it.
Conclusion
Stickum is a sticky substance that has been used by baseball players for decades to improve their grip on the bat and to increase the force of their swing. Stickum is made from a combination of paraffin wax, petroleum jelly, and other ingredients, and it can be beneficial to a baseball player’s performance in several ways. However, it is important to note that stickum is not allowed in professional baseball, as it is considered to be a form of cheating. Stickum can be used in some amateur leagues, but it is important to check with the league’s rules and regulations before using it.