Unmasking the MLB logo: The story behind the iconic silhouette

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Swing and a miss!

The MLB logo might look like a famous hitter, but it's actually a mystery.

Dive in to uncover the story behind the silhouette and meet a true baseball legend.

Who is the MLB logo?

The Major League Baseball logo is a silhouette of a batter, but it's not actually modeled after any one specific player. There's a popular theory that it's Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew, but the designer, Jerry Dior, has said he intentionally created an ambiguous image. So, while it evokes the idea of a powerful hitter, it leaves room for interpretation.

Who is Harmon Killebrew?

Harmon Killebrew was a legendary American baseball player nicknamed "Killer" and "Hammerin' Harmon." Here's a summary of his impressive career:

  • Powerhouse Hitter: Known for his incredible power hitting, Killebrew was one of the most feared sluggers of the 1960s. At the time of his retirement, he had the fifth-most home runs in major league history.

  • Minnesota Twins Star: He spent most of his 22-year career with the Minnesota Twins, becoming a franchise icon.

  • Home Run King: Killebrew was second only to Babe Ruth in American League (AL) home runs, and held the AL career record for home runs by a right-handed batter when he retired.

  • Award Winner: His achievements were recognized with 13 All-Star selections, and in 1969, he was named the American League's Most Valuable Player after a season with 49 home runs and 140 RBIs.

  • Hall of Famer: Deservedly, Harmon Killebrew was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984.

Who is Jerry Dior?

Jerry Dior was an American graphic designer best known for creating the iconic Major League Baseball logo. Here's a breakdown of his accomplishments:

  • Designer of the MLB Logo: While working at a New York design firm in 1968, Dior created the silhouette of a batter that has become synonymous with Major League Baseball.

  • Recognition After Years: Interestingly, Dior wasn't initially credited for the logo, as it was considered "work for hire." It wasn't until 2009 that Major League Baseball officially recognized him as the designer.

  • Legacy: Despite the delayed recognition, Dior's design has become a timeless symbol of America's pastime.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Is that Babe Ruth? Debunking myths about the MLB logo

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