Big League Chew

Big League Chew is a brand of bubble gum that is designed to resemble chewing tobacco. It was created by former Major League Baseball (MLB) players Rob Nelson and Jim Bouton in 1980. The gum is shredded and packaged in a foil pouch, similar to the packaging of chewing tobacco, and is marketed primarily to children.

History

Big League Chew was conceived in the summer of 1977 by Rob Nelson, a left-handed pitcher, and Jim Bouton, a former MLB pitcher and author of the controversial book Ball Four. The idea came about when Nelson and Bouton were playing for the Portland Mavericks, an independent team in the Northwest League. Nelson, who was opposed to the use of chewing tobacco, thought that a shredded bubble gum product could serve as a healthier alternative for players and fans alike.

The duo pitched the idea to the Wrigley Company, which initially showed interest but ultimately passed on the product. Nelson and Bouton then approached Amurol Confections Company, a subsidiary of Wrigley, which agreed to produce and market Big League Chew. The product was officially launched in 1980 and quickly became popular among young baseball fans.

Product Description

Big League Chew is known for its unique shredded texture, which mimics the appearance of chewing tobacco. The gum is available in a variety of flavors, including original bubble gum, grape, sour apple, and cotton candy. Each pouch contains a generous amount of gum, allowing users to pull out and chew as much or as little as they like.

The packaging of Big League Chew features colorful, cartoonish illustrations of baseball players, further emphasizing its connection to the sport. The product has been endorsed by several MLB players over the years and is often seen in dugouts and on the field during games.

Cultural Impact

Big League Chew has become a cultural icon in the world of baseball and beyond. It is often associated with Little League Baseball and other youth sports, where it is seen as a fun and safe alternative to chewing tobacco. The gum has also made appearances in various forms of media, including television shows, movies, and comic books.

The success of Big League Chew has inspired other novelty gum products, but it remains one of the most recognizable and beloved brands in the market. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of its creators, Rob Nelson and Jim Bouton.

See Also

• Chewing gum
• Bubble gum
• Chewing tobacco
• Major League Baseball
• Little League Baseball
• Rob Nelson (baseball)
• Jim Bouton