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Baseball Trivia (General)/Batting Helmets

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Expert: - 10/28/2006


Question
what year were batting helmets required and what was the grandfather rule

Answer
Cliff,

The Pittsburgh Pirates were the first team to wear them, in 1952. They became mandatory in the National League in 1955 and in the American League in 1956. The grandfather rule said that if you had not worn the helmet before, you were not required to, i.e., only players coming into the Bigs during and after those years had to. Same rule was in effect when the earpiece on helmets became mandatory in the 1980s.

Cheers,
Tom

Baseball Trivia (General)

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Tom Schott

Expertise

I will deal with the major leagues only from 19th century to present. I`m good on baseball history, records, statistics, ballparks. I don't do off-the-field stuff. Please if you already know the answer to the question, please don't ask it. I don't want to play "stump the expert."

Experience

I've written on the subject, and I have substantial library of resources.

Organizations
SABR

Publications
Numerous encyclopedia, newspaper, magazine articles. One book, several book chapters.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in American history.

Awards and Honors
Bevy of writing awards.

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