Babe ruth wore a cabbage leaf under his cap to keep his head cool he changed it every two innings

Babe Ruth’s Cooling Secret: The Cabbage Leaf

When it comes to legendary baseball players, one name that often stands out is Babe Ruth. Known for his tremendous skills and larger-than-life personality, Ruth captivated the hearts of millions of fans during his illustrious career. However, there’s an interesting fact about this iconic figure that often goes unnoticed: Babe Ruth wore a cabbage leaf under his cap to keep his head cool, changing it every two innings.

This quirky habit of using a cabbage leaf might seem peculiar at first, but it served a practical purpose for Ruth. Baseball games can be grueling, lasting for hours under the scorching sun. In order to maintain focus and endure the heat, players often seek innovative methods to cool themselves down. And that’s where the cabbage leaf comes into play.

Cabbage leaves have a natural ability to retain moisture, making them an ideal choice for a makeshift cooling device. By placing a cabbage leaf under his cap, Babe Ruth could benefit from its refreshing properties. As he ran the bases, swung his bat, or chased down fly balls, the cabbage leaf would provide a much-needed respite from the heat, keeping his head cool and his performance at its peak.

But why did Babe Ruth change the cabbage leaf every two innings? The answer lies in the natural degradation of the leaf. Over time, as the cabbage leaf was exposed to heat and sweat, its cooling properties would diminish. By changing the leaf every two innings, Ruth ensured that he always had a fresh, cool leaf on his head, maximizing its effectiveness.

While wearing a cabbage leaf under the cap might seem unconventional, it was just one of the examples that showcased Ruth’s unique personality and willingness to go to great lengths for his performance on the field. But this quirk didn’t hinder his abilities; in fact, it only added to his mystique and endeared him even more to his fans.

As we explore the fascinating life of Babe Ruth, we discover that his legacy extends far beyond his impressive baseball career. From his record-breaking home runs to his astonishing charisma, Ruth left an indelible mark on the sport and popular culture. And let’s not forget his cooling secret: the humble cabbage leaf. It serves as a reminder that even the greatest athletes innovate and adapt to ensure they are always at the top of their game, even if it means wearing a vegetable on their heads.

Source: Biography.com - 10 Things You May Not Know About Babe Ruth