The Joe Pomp Show MLB’s Baseball Factory in Costa Rica Matters More Than You Think
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Apr 17, 2025 Dive into the intriguing world of Major League Baseball production! Discover how baseballs are manufactured in Costa Rica and the controversies surrounding their performance. Explore the debates over 'juiced' versus 'dead' balls and the impact of MLB's acquisition of Rawlings. Learn about the game day ritual of placing baseballs in a humidor and rubbing them with special 'magic mud.' This lively discussion reveals how these elements can influence the integrity of the game.
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MLB's Unique Baseball Rubbing Mud
- MLB baseballs are rubbed with a special mud sourced from the Delaware River since the 1930s.
- This mud dulls the ball's sheen, improving grip without damaging the leather, and remains irreplaceable despite modern attempts.
Baseball Manufacturing Precision
- Making an MLB baseball is a detailed handmade process taking about 10 days.
- The balls undergo strict quality inspections including bounce tests and even x-rays to meet precise standards.
Humidity and Mud Standardize Baseballs
- MLB mandates humidors and mudding of baseballs before games to standardize ball performance.
- Humidifying balls reduces home run rates, showing environmental factors crucially affect gameplay.