Baseball is a sport that has been around for centuries, and it has evolved over time. Throughout the evolution of the game, certain rules have been established to keep the game fair and to protect the players. One of the most controversial rules in baseball is the prohibition of pine tar. This rule has been around for decades and still remains in place today. In this article, we’ll take a look at why pine tar is illegal in baseball and why it remains a contentious issue.
What is Pine Tar?
Pine tar is a sticky, tar-like substance made from the resin of pine trees. It has a range of uses, from woodworking to preserving rope and fabric. In baseball, however, it has a very specific purpose: it is used to improve the grip of a player’s bat.
Why is Pine Tar Illegal in Baseball?
The main reason why pine tar is illegal in baseball is because it gives players an unfair advantage. By using pine tar, players can get a better grip on the bat and therefore hit the ball harder and farther than they would without it. This gives them an unfair advantage over those players who are not using it, which is why it is prohibited in the sport.
The other reason why pine tar is illegal in baseball is because it can damage the ball. When a player applies pine tar to the bat, some of it can rub off onto the ball, making it harder and less bouncy. This can make it difficult for pitchers to control the ball and could even make it dangerous for batters to hit. For these reasons, pine tar is strictly prohibited in baseball.
The History of Pine Tar in Baseball
Pine tar has a long and storied history in baseball. It was first used by players in the early 1900s and quickly became a popular way for them to improve their grip on the bat. However, in 1983, Major League Baseball banned the use of pine tar on bats, citing the unfair advantage it gave players and the potential damage it could do to the ball.
Since then, the rule has remained in place, although there have been some notable exceptions. In 1984, George Brett of the Kansas City Royals famously hit a home run with a bat that had pine tar on it. The umpires initially called him out for using an illegal bat, but the decision was overturned after a lengthy appeal process.
Why is Pine Tar Still Controversial?
Despite being banned in 1983, the use of pine tar in baseball is still a contentious issue. Some players argue that the rule should be changed to allow the use of pine tar, as it can help them to improve their performance and make the game more entertaining. Others, however, argue that it should remain illegal, as it gives players an unfair advantage and can damage the ball.
Conclusion
Pine tar has been illegal in baseball since 1983, and the rule remains in place today. The main reason why it is illegal is because it gives players an unfair advantage and can damage the ball. Despite this, the use of pine tar is still a contentious issue, with some players arguing that the rule should be changed to allow for its use. Ultimately, it is up to Major League Baseball to decide whether or not to allow the use of pine tar in the sport.