Pine Tar

Pine tar is a sticky, dark substance derived from pine wood that batters apply to bat handles to improve grip. It's been a part of baseball for over a century and was famously at the center of one of baseball's most controversial moments.

What Is Pine Tar?

Pine tar is made by:

• Heating pine wood at high temperatures
• Collecting the sticky residue that oozes out
• Processing it into a usable form

It's dark brown/black and extremely tacky, perfect for gripping a bat.

Legal Use of Pine Tar

MLB Rule 3.02(c) states:

• Pine tar may be applied to the bat
• It may only extend 18 inches from the handle
• Beyond that, the bat is illegal

The Pine Tar Game (1983)

The most famous pine tar incident occurred on July 24, 1983:

• George Brett (Kansas City Royals) hit a two-run homer against the Yankees
• Yankees manager Billy Martin argued Brett's pine tar exceeded 18 inches
• Umpires agreed and called Brett out, nullifying the home run
• Brett charged out of the dugout in a famous rage
• The Royals protested, and the home run was later reinstated
• The game was resumed weeks later, with the Royals winning

Why the Rule Exists

The 18-inch limit exists because:

• Pine tar on the barrel could affect ball trajectory
• It could transfer to the ball, affecting pitching
• It's primarily a grip aid, not needed on the barrel

Pine Tar vs. Other Grip Aids

• Pine tar: Most popular, very sticky
• Rosin: Drier grip, often combined with pine tar
• Grip tape: Modern alternative
• Batting gloves: Also improve grip