Every minor leaguer must go through it. You spend the bulk of your life collecting New Era hats from all ranks of the baseball world, and then, the second you get drafted, these lids become useless. Sure, you'll snap a few photos wearing the home cap of your new team on Draft day, and perhaps even one more time when you sign your first contract- assuming you're not too embarrassed to ask the scout signing you for a posed handshake, a smile, and a 'Cheese'- but once you begin your professional career, those hats are out.
I grew up with a baseball cap on my head, but it wasn't until college that my relationship with New Era really blossomed. These were the real deal. The 59Fifty was the model seen atop every Big Leaguer's head- the look was authentic, and naturally, I had to be a part of it. My collection grew, and although I continually added more hats, I did my best to incorporate all of them into my wardrobe- careful not to let any feel left out.
My collection was well-rounded. I had the classics- Dodgers, Tigers, Red Sox (never had a Yankees lid, figured I couldn't sport both, but I obviously consider it a classic)- along with some fun alternates- the Clemens era Blue Jays, the royal blue Brewers, and the red 'TC' Twins. Mix those with some throwbacks- the Mo Vaughn Angels, a two-toned Expos, and an old 'Devil' Rays- and you've got a pretty complete MLB collection.
I've always been a sucker for the navy and light blue combo. The Corpus Christi Hooks have a winner with this home cap- great colors complemented by a fun logo:
the staples of a good Minor League hat.
Is it me or does that little guy look more cute than intimidating? Kind of a little brother 'trying to prove himself' type of look he's got goin' on- maybe it's just the way he's wearing his little red hat. Either way, this Hooks lid is one of my favorites.
*The Corpus Christi Hooks are a Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros.
(In case you missed it, check out SMALLS TALK: Minor League hats are the way to go)
Previous Hats of the Week
Montgomery Biscuits
Looking for a fresh new look? Introducing MLU's Hat of the Week. Every Sunday we will showcase a favorite lid from the Major League, Minor League, or College ranks. These are personal favorites, sure to catch the attention of any baseball fan or female observer.
I cannot look at this hat without smiling. The Montgomery Biscuits alternate hat is hilarious, take a peek: it's literally a biscuit- buttered in the middle, of course- with eyeballs, big white gloves, and a pair of spikes. Come on, that's classic.
The logo is fun and I like the navy and yellow combo: eye-catching, but in a subtle way. Most importantly, this hat is a conversation-starting machine. Who is going to see this hat and not 1) chuckle, and 2) ask what team it is? Better yet, anyone who knows what hat you're wearing, regardless of whether you know the person or not, is gonna greet you with a "Montgomery Biscuits!" and a high-five. It simply can't miss.
*The Montgomery Biscuits are a Double-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays.
(In case you missed it, check out SMALLS TALK: Minor League hats are the way to go)
