Baseballs

Evolution of a Baseball

Ever wondered how baseballs are made? Well, today's MLB official baseball, made exclusively by Rawlings, has 108 hand-woven stitches, a weight of 5-5.25 ounces and a circumference of 9 inches - but it hasn't always been this way. Pitchers used to make their own baseballs and it wasn't until 1870 that a regulation ball was introduced, with the rules stating that balls should be spherical, made of cork, yarn and leather, and stitched together.

Highest Selling Signed Balls

The highest selling signed baseball of all time was signed by Babe Ruth. It s auctioned for $388,375 in 2012. The ball, signed by the Sultan of Swat, who broke numerous records between 1914 and 1935, is one of the most valuable autographed items in the world. Another particularly cherished piece of baseball memorabilia is the ball signed by Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe at a Yankees' training session in 1961. 45 years later, a collector spent $191,200 to add it to his collection.

Top Baseball Brands

The top baseball brand is Rawlings, the manufacturer of the MLB’s official baseball. Outside of Rawlings, SKLZ and Wilson are also quality retailers of baseballs. SKLZ Reduced Impact baseballs are inexpensive and extra-cushioned, meaning they are great for using in Little League games, while Wilson A1010s Blem baseballs are designed for practice. Rawlings Rcal1 Cal Ripken League baseballs are the most popular choice among Little League teams.