Babe Ruth is one of the most iconic figures in the history of baseball, and his legendary bat is a symbol of baseball’s golden age. Many people wonder what type of wood was used to make the bat that powered some of the most legendary home runs of all time. The answer is surprisingly simple.
The Type of Wood Used in Babe Ruth’s Bat
Babe Ruth’s bat was made from a type of wood called white ash. White ash is a hardwood that is native to the eastern United States and is prized for its strength and flexibility. It is a popular choice for baseball bats due to its ability to absorb the impact of a ball without breaking. White ash is also relatively lightweight and has good shock absorption properties, making it a good choice for bats.
The History of White Ash in Baseball
White ash has a long history in baseball. It was used to make bats as early as the 1700s, and it was the most popular wood for bats until the 1970s. White ash was the wood of choice for many of the most famous players of the era, including Babe Ruth. Its popularity began to decline in the 1970s, however, due to the emergence of aluminum bats. Aluminum bats were lighter, cheaper, and more durable than wooden bats, and they quickly gained popularity among players.
Advantages of White Ash
Despite the emergence of aluminum bats, white ash remains a popular choice among professional players. White ash bats are strong and durable, and they are known for their “sweet spot”—the area on the bat that is most likely to hit the ball with maximum power. White ash bats also have a natural flexibility that helps reduce the shock of impact when making contact with the ball. This helps reduce the risk of injury to the player.
Disadvantages of White Ash
Although white ash is a popular choice for baseball bats, it does have some drawbacks. White ash is a dense wood, which makes it heavier than other woods. This can make it difficult for players to generate speed when swinging the bat. White ash is also more prone to cracking than other woods, which can reduce its lifespan.
Conclusion
Babe Ruth’s legendary bat was made from white ash, a hardwood that is native to the eastern United States. White ash is prized for its strength and flexibility, and it was the most popular choice for bats until the 1970s. Although aluminum bats are now more popular among professional players, white ash remains a popular choice due to its strength and its “sweet spot”. White ash bats do have some drawbacks, however, such as their weight and their susceptibility to cracking.