How Many Stitches Are on a Baseball?

how many stitches are on a baseball

Last updated on November 3rd, 2023 at 07:26 am

A total of 108 double stitches make up an official Major League Baseball, with the first and last stitch hidden on the ball. That means 216 total stitches cover the seams of the ball. Two figure-8 patterns of cowhide covering pieces of material are sewn together before passing the ball into a rolling machine to level out the stitches. The actual stitches use a waxy red thread, which is now typical for every ball in the MLB today.

 

Why are Baseball Stitches Red?

The red stitches on a baseball help hitters pick up the spin from a pitcher’s throw, but those stitches were not always red. Initially, MLB baseballs in the early 1900s had black and red laces in the National League. In the American League, during that same time, balls had red and blue laces. It was not until 1934 when professional baseballs had a consistent red stitch for every ball.

 

What are the Stitches on a Baseball Called?

The stitches on a Major League Baseball are known as virgules. Baseballs are hand-sewn, and there are a total of 216 stitches on a ball. Each stitch is double stitched, and the first and last stitch is hidden.

 

What is the Purpose of Baseball Stitches?

The purpose of having stitches on a baseball helps pitchers throw different pitches to hitters. By gripping the ball differently on or across the baseball seams, they can change their pitch trajectory. The spin of the ball against the air can cause a pitch to break in a specific way, or drop as it comes to a batter. Some pitches that pitchers can throw by gripping the ball differently from one another include curveballs, sinkers, splitters, and sliders.

 

How Many Stitches are on a Softball?

Many people wonder how many stitches are on a softball. For regulation size softballs, you will find 88 stitches on the ball.

 

Similar Posts

What is the Infield Fly Rule?

Baseball Bench Coach

AA vs. AAA Baseball

What is a Hold in Baseball?

What is a Quality Start in Baseball?

Magic Number in Baseball

How Much Do Bat Boys Make?

What is the Rule 5 Draft?

Can of Corn Baseball

What Does Bush League Mean in Baseball?

How to Become an MLB Umpire?

What is a Baseball Ace?

What is a Walk-Off Home Run?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *