Baseball season is back in full swing! The birds are chirping way above the diamond, the stands are crowded with fans, and the pitcher is at the mound. In preparation for that big opening throw, pitchers will typically resort to a rosin bag which they keep on or near the pitcher's mound. So what is rosin? Why is it in a bag? And, more importantly, what is it used for?

Essentially, resin, which in solid form is referred to as rosin, is formed from materials extracted primarily from plants through an intensive heating process. When rosin is used in bags for baseball pitchers, however, its main purpose is to absorb sweat.

Many high-level competitive sports require dry hands in order to ensure a successful performance. Similar to gymnasts who swing gracefully from uneven bars, baseball pitchers require dry hands to reduce slipping around the ball and ensure crisper pitches, free from the extra weight of moisture.

Learn more about this author, Krystle Hernandez.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Why baseball pitchers need a rosin bag?
We want to hear your view. Write now!