The SURPRISING History of Big League Chew Bubble Gum
Video Description:
Big League Chew bubble gum, known for its shredded, chewable form, has been a favorite among baseball enthusiasts since its inception in 1980. The idea for Big League Chew came from former minor league baseball player Rob Nelson, who played for the Portland Mavericks, an independent team in the Northwest League. While sitting in the bullpen with teammate Jim Bouton, a former New York Yankees pitcher, Nelson came up with the concept of a chewing gum designed to mimic the look of chewing tobacco, which was prevalent among baseball players at the time. Both Nelson and Bouton wanted to create a fun and healthier alternative for players, especially young fans, and they saw shredded bubble gum as a way to offer the experience without the harmful effects of tobacco.
Nelson and Bouton refined their idea, aiming for a product that would have the same look and feel as chewing tobacco pouches, which could easily fit into a player’s back pocket. With their vision in mind, they went on to pitch the idea to a variety of companies, and eventually, they partnered with Amurol Products, a subsidiary of Wrigley.
Big League Chew hit the market in 1980 and quickly gained traction, especially among kids. With its bright, colorful packaging, each pouch of Big League Chew was filled with shredded bubble gum that gave kids and fans the playful feeling of “chewing” like the pros. The product became an instant hit, and its success continued to grow. Its appeal was not limited to baseball; the unique packaging, sweet flavors, and novelty of shredded gum made Big League Chew a fun choice for all ages.
Over the years, the brand introduced a variety of flavors, including original Bubblegum, Grape, Watermelon, and Sour Apple, to cater to a wide range of tastes. Additionally, Big League Chew expanded its product lineup with different packaging and promotional efforts, maintaining its popularity and evolving its brand while staying true to its baseball roots.
In the early 2000s, after decades of Wrigley's production, Ford Gum & Machine Company took over the manufacturing and distribution of Big League Chew. This shift helped continue the legacy of the brand, ensuring its availability to both nostalgic adults who grew up with Big League Chew and new generations discovering it for the first time.
Today, Big League Chew is a nostalgic classic, still commonly found in ballparks, convenience stores, and candy aisles, representing an era of fun, innovation, and baseball heritage. Big League Chew is also recognized for its commitment to youth baseball, with the brand supporting numerous little league teams and organizations. Its impact extends beyond the product itself, as it has inspired countless young fans to engage with the game of baseball and created lasting memories for decades. Despite changing trends in both the candy and sports industries, Big League Chew remains a beloved product, symbolizing the playful spirit of baseball and celebrating the joy of the game in a lighthearted, flavorful way.
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