Hi-Jinks at the Ballpark: Costumed Mascots in the Major Leagues

It is rare today to attend a major league baseball game without encountering a performer wearing a cartoonish outfit of oversized proportions. Indeed, during the past 30 years nearly every team has developed at least one larger-than-life character to help sell tickets, entertain fans, and promote goodwill and loyalty in the community. Surprisingly, however, no in-depth study of these creatures exists. As such, utilizing a team-by-team approach, this Article takes a look at costumed mascots in the major leagues.