The 34-Ton Bat
| Company type | Book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2013 |
| Founder | Steve Rushin |
| Products | Book on baseball culture |
The 34-Ton Bat: The Story of Baseball As Told Through Bobbleheads, Cracker Jacks, Jockstraps, Eye Black, and 375 Other Strange and Unforgettable Objects is a 2013 publication on baseball authored by American journalist and Sports Illustrated contributor Steve Rushin. Rushin earned the title of 2005 National Sportswriter of the Year and has been a finalist for the National Magazine Award on four occasions.
Book summary
Chapter 1. The Baseball Grenade. Rushin delves into the military’s effort to create a hand grenade shaped like a baseball, aiming to capitalize on soldiers’ throwing abilities. This section also recounts memorable baseball feats from the twentieth century.
Chapter 2. Stairway to Heaven. This chapter outlines the history of baseball bats and their makers, emphasizing players’ connections with their bats and the introduction of aluminum bats into the game.
Chapter 3. The Lost City of Francisco Grande. Constructed in 1961 at a cost of $4.5 million by Horace Stoneham, owner of the San Francisco Giants, Francisco Grande functioned as the team’s spring training site complete with upscale features. Rushin reviews the baseball-themed decoration of the facility before exploring glove evolution and how the hinged catcher's mitt revolutionized catching.
Chapter 4. The Men in the Gray Flannel Suits. Here, Rushin chronicles the development of baseball uniforms, including elements such as stirrup socks and caps, as well as innovations like numbering and naming players on jerseys.
Chapter 5. The Beanproof Cap of Foulproof Taylor. Concentrating on player protection, this chapter discusses early adoption of sunglasses and protective headgear in baseball. It highlights James Philip Leo Taylor, an inventor who created one of the earliest protective cups, illustrating how safety gear became commonplace following serious injuries.
Chapter 6. The Decrepit Urinals of Ebbets Field. This segment focuses on restroom design at ballparks influenced by heavy beer consumption, contrasting well-designed facilities with poorly planned ones like those at Ebbets Field.
Chapter 7. "The Redhots Warmed with Mustard Saved Many a Life." Examines concession stands at ballparks—selling hot dogs, peanuts, popcorn—and their significance in generating revenue through food sales as well as souvenirs and apparel.
Chapter 8. Row C, section 42, Seats 3 and 4 at the Polo Grounds. Discusses episodes where stray bullets hit spectators at New York ballparks and traces the origin of the famous New York Yankees interlocking "NY" logo back to a police medal designed by former Yankees owner Bill Devery.
Chapter 9. Recessional. Wraps up with a look at how ballpark music transitioned from organ performances to contemporary rock tunes, paralleling Rushin’s own experience growing up in America.
Reviews
By November 2013, while national media attention was modest, prominent critics lauded Rushin’s narrative style and engaging writing.[1] [2] [3]
The 34-Ton Bat—named after the enormous 120-foot bat displayed at the Louisville Slugger Museum—offers insights that deepen even well-informed fans’ appreciation of baseball and its players. Veteran Sports Illustrated journalist Steve Rushin applies the concept of "material culture," analyzing physical artifacts to uncover wider historical meanings. He narrates baseball’s history through iconic items such as bats and balls alongside lesser-known objects like steel protective cups and ballpark urinals, reflecting the broader culture surrounding the sport.[1]
"Though it may sound clichéd to say everything has a story, in baseball this rings especially true. Even the baseball itself embodies a narrative—one rich in geography and symbolism—almost a sacred emblem in American culture. Steve Rushin captures these tales in his book, The 34-Ton Bat."[2]
With a relaxed tone reminiscent of an easygoing game, Rushin journeys through baseball’s world—from locker rooms to outfields—spotlighting objects that enrich its legacy. His mix of trivia and wit appeals to fans interested in statistics, history, and the finer details of America’s pastime. The 34-Ton Bat serves as an exceptional companion for enthusiasts beyond just the playing season.[3]