Types of baseballs – Decoding Brands

There are many brands of baseballs available on the market with confusing model names and descriptions.

A.D. Starr

A.D. Starr is part of Dick’s Sporting Goods and Dick’s Team Sports HQ, in charge of bulk baseball and softball equipment side of the business. Plus, A.D. STARR makes baseballs, softballs, and gear for catchers under its own brand.

On April 5, 2018, A.D. Starr was named the official ball supplier of the Little League World Series for all seven baseball and softball divisions. It is also the recommended ball for tournaments at all levels of play.

Baden

Baden Sports, founded in 1979, is a third-generation family-owned sporting goods company based in Kent, WA. Baden Sports is known for its high-quality baseballs suitable for all levels of play, including high school and college. They offer a range of baseballs for game, training, practice, and pitching machine use, emphasizing durability and performance.

Champro

Champro, established by Wilson F. Hunt in 1986, began with a focus on creating high-quality, affordable baseball equipment and has since expanded its product line significantly. Recognized for its comprehensive range in the sporting goods industry, Champro ventured into apparel in 1996 and introduced custom sublimation apparel in 2012.

Champro baseballs are not as well known as Rawlings and Wilson but they produce solid youth baseballs.

Diamond Sports

When it comes to tournament play, Diamond baseballs are a top choice for players and leagues alike. Known for their durability, consistent performance, and quality, Diamond baseballs are engineered to meet the demands of competitive play.

With a focus on superior craftsmanship, these balls offer the perfect balance of control for pitchers and responsiveness for hitters, making them a staple in tournaments across various levels of the sport.

Easton

After being acquired by Rawlings on October 20, 2020, it continues to make baseball and softball related equipment except baseballs.

However, it still manufactures “IncrediBalls” line of baseball and softball training balls under it’s own brand

MacGregor

BRG Sports owned MACMARK Corporation, which in turn owned the trademark MacGregor or McGregor baseballs and other sports  equipment. BSN Sports is the owner of the trademark and produces various baseballs for leagues across north America.

Mizuno

Mizuno Corporation, established in Osaka in 1906 by Rihachi Mizuno and his brother Rizo, has grown into a global entity renowned for its sports equipment and sportswear, including baseball gear. The company began by selling Western sundries, including baseballs, and then moved on to manufacturing athletic wear and eventually, baseballs and gloves.

Mizuno makes Model 701 youth baseballs for Little League, destined for Japan only. Otherwise, it sells baseball glove, apparel, and other baseball related equipment for USA.

You may want to read, What is the difference between MLB ball and Japanese ball post for more information on professional grade baseballs.

Proline

ProNine Sports, acquired by Brad Emerman’s family in 2014 and relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, originally started in 2001 in Los Angeles, California. It’s a family-owned business dedicated to producing high-quality baseball and softball gear, including a variety of baseballs designed for games, tournaments, practice, or training.

Emphasizing high-performance and durable equipment, ProNine has expanded its product line to include new items like batting gloves and team bags, alongside customizable options for personal or league use​​.

Rawlings

MLB and Seidler Equity Partners (SEP) bought Rawlings from Newell Brands in June 2018 for $395 million. Rawlings is the exclusive baseball provider for all MLB games as well as MiLB AAA games.

Spalding

The Spalding trademark is owned by Russell Brands, LLC. Spalding, a company with a long history dating back to its founding in 1876. It had been a significant player in providing baseballs to MLB until it lost to Rawlings. Over the years, Spalding has expanded its product lines to include a variety of sports equipment, including basketball and softball (it produces very popular Dudley softballs)

SSK Corporation

SSK Corporation is a Japan-based company making baseballs for Little League (models LL-10, LL25, and LL-30) and Japanese high school teams.

My post, What is the difference between MLB ball and Japanese ball also has some information on SSK high school baseballs.

Wilson

Wilson Sporting Goods, originally founded in 1913, is currently a subsidiary of the Finnish company Amer Sports. Through its history, Wilson has seen several ownership changes, including being acquired by PepsiCo in 1970 and later by Westray Capital Corporation in 1985. The company became part of Amer Sports in 1989 after a merger. Wilson produces high quality gloves used by MLB players (especially A2000 gloves) and their tournament-grade baseballs are excellent.

Takeaways

In the world of baseball, the quality of the ball can significantly impact the game’s integrity and the players’ experience. As we’ve explored reputable brands like Diamond, Rawlings, and Wilson, it’s clear that investing in balls from established makers is crucial. These brands have honed their craft over years, ensuring that each ball meets strict standards for performance, durability, and consistency.

Opting for cheap, unknown brands might seem like a budget-friendly choice at first glance. However, this can lead to a false economy. Lower-quality baseballs often result in poor performance—they might not pitch, hit, or fly as expected, and they can wear out quickly, leading to more frequent replacements.

While the allure of saving money with lesser-known brands is understandable, the compromise on quality is not worth it. Sticking with reputable brands ensures that you’re getting the best possible product—a crucial factor in a game where precision and performance matter.

You may also want to read How to Buy Baseballs – Guide to Baseball Buying Secrets.