Mascots were common among major-league teams as good luck charms well into the 1930’s. They were often men with physical limitations.

This is Al Schact, people called him the Clown Prince of baseball. After his short career as a pitcher he became a mascot for all of baseball. He performed for more than 3 decades.

This is Cal Ripken Jr. after his last game. He was a great shortstop for the Orioles.

This is another picture of Cal Ripken Jr. Catching a ball at shortstop.

This is Randy Johnson. He is one of the greatest pitchers of our time.

This is Cuban-born star Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez. He is one of the great Latin pitchers.

This is a picture of the newer factory-made balls.

This is a picture of the old hand-made balls.

This is a picture of Mark McGwire. He was a star before he entered major-league baseball and was Rookie of the Year in his first season.

This is Sammy Sosa hitting a home run. He is Mark McGwire’s best friend and they are both big hitters.