Baseball is a beloved American pastime, and a key component of the game is the ball. Over the years, the color of the ball has been a contentious topic, with some believing that the ball should have a different hue. However, the traditional white baseball has been the norm since the mid-1800s, and there may be some good reasons for this.
History of the Baseball
Baseball has been around since the mid-1800s, and its roots are linked to the English game of rounders. The first official baseballs were brown and were made from the hide of cows. As the game became more popular, manufacturers began to produce a variety of balls with different colors, including white, red, and blue.
The Adoption of the White Baseball
In 1857, the National Association of Base Ball Players (NABBP) was formed and it standardized the size, shape, and color of the ball. The organization chose white as the official color and this decision was likely influenced by the fact that the ball was easier to see on a sunny day.
Advantages of the White Ball
The white baseball has some distinct advantages that have made it the preferred color of major league baseballs. One of the most important benefits is that it is easier to track the ball’s trajectory and spin. The color helps players and umpires to keep track of the ball, as well as to identify if a pitch is a strike or a ball.
In addition, the white ball reflects light better than other colors, which reduces the amount of strain on players’ eyes. This is especially important during night games, as the white ball is more visible against the dark sky.
The white ball also does not absorb heat as much as darker colors, which helps to keep it cooler. This is beneficial for pitchers, as a cooler ball has less drag and is easier to grip.
Durability of the White Baseball
The white baseball is also known for its durability, as the color does not fade easily. This is particularly important in professional baseball, as players need to be able to identify a new ball from an old one.
The white color also helps to keep the leather of the ball intact for a longer period of time. The leather is more resistant to scuffs and scrapes, which helps to maintain the ball’s shape and structure.
Conclusion
The white baseball has been the standard color for professional baseballs since the mid-1800s. The color is easier to see, provides a better reflection of light, and is more durable than other colors. These advantages have helped to make the white ball the preferred choice for major league baseballs.