Baseball legends hit with Louisville Slugger bats
Before the turn of the century, block lettering was used for famous players. These included: Willie Keeler, a Hall of Fame member who played with the old Brooklyn Dodgers, among other teams. Hugh Duffy, Hall of Fame member, who played with the Chicago Nationals, among others. Pete Browning, who of course launched the "Louisville Slugger" custom made bat. John McGraw, Hall of Fame member, who was a star third baseman for nine seasons with the Baltimore Orioles. Hugh Jennings, Hall of Fame member, who compiled a .406 batting average during his career with Louisville, Detroit and Brooklyn teams. Honus Wagner, who was called "the greatest shortstop in baseball history." The Delahanty Brothers, five brothers who played with Cleveland, Detroit, Louisville, and other teams.
Bud Hillerich earned a partnership in his father's business in 1897, when he was 31. The company name changed to "J.F. Hillerich and Son," where young Hillerich directed the expanding bat department.
On September 1, 1905, "The Flying Dutchman," Honus Wagner, signed a contract giving J.F. Hillerich and Son permission to use his autograph on Louisville Slugger bats. Wagner's signature was the first to be used on a baseball bat, and established the now-widespread practice of endorsement advertising, which Hillerich & Bradsby Co. still employs.
Many baseball legends have signed with H&B and used Louisville Slugger bats to advance their careers. These greats include Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Hank Aaron, Johnny Bench and George Brett, to name just a few.
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