Zack Hample is a well-known baseball enthusiast renowned for his extraordinary collection of baseballs snagged from Major League Baseball (MLB) games. His dedication to this unique hobby has garnered attention from fans and media alike. As of 2022, Hample claims to have caught over 12,000 baseballs at MLB stadiums.
The Beginning of a Passion
Hample’s journey began in 1990 at Shea Stadium, where he caught his first baseball during a game. This initial experience ignited a passion that has driven him to attend countless games with the goal of adding to his collection. He describes his interest in catching foul balls as “a passion,” stating that after obtaining his first ball, he desired more and more.
Milestones in Hample’s Collection
Hample’s collection has grown significantly over the years, with notable milestones marking his progress:
- 1990: Caught his first baseball at Shea Stadium.
- 2012: Reached 6,000 baseballs.
- 2022: Surpassed 12,000 baseballs.
These milestones reflect Hample’s unwavering dedication to his hobby over more than three decades.
Notable Baseballs in Hample’s Collection
Throughout his ballhawking career, Hample has snagged several significant baseballs:
- Barry Bonds’ 724th Home Run: In 2006, Hample caught this milestone home run ball, adding a historic piece to his collection.
- Mike Trout’s First Career Home Run: In 2011, he secured the ball from Trout’s inaugural home run, marking the beginning of a superstar’s career.
- Alex Rodriguez’s 3,000th Hit: In 2015, Hample caught A-Rod’s 3,000th hit, a home run, which led to significant media attention and negotiations for the ball’s return.
Techniques and Strategies
Hample’s success is not merely a result of attending numerous games; he employs specific techniques and strategies to increase his chances of snagging baseballs:
- Early Entry: Arriving at stadiums early allows Hample to position himself advantageously during batting practice when many balls are hit into the stands.
- Device Creation: He developed a device made from a baseball glove, rubber band, and pen to assist in retrieving balls from inaccessible areas.
- Player Interaction: Building rapport with players and coaches has occasionally led to receiving balls directly from them.
- Stadium Knowledge: Understanding the unique characteristics of different ballparks helps Hample anticipate where balls are likely to land.
Public Perception and Criticism
While many admire Hample’s dedication, he has also faced criticism:
- Aggressive Tactics: Some fans and media outlets have accused him of using aggressive tactics to obtain baseballs, sometimes at the expense of other fans, including children.
- Fort Bragg Game Controversy: In 2016, Hample attended a military-only game at Fort Bragg, acquiring a ticket meant for active-duty personnel and their families, which led to widespread criticism.
Despite these controversies, Hample continues his pursuit, maintaining that he adheres to ethical practices during his ballhawking endeavors.
Beyond Ballhawking: Hample’s Other Endeavors
Hample’s passion for baseball extends beyond collecting baseballs:
- Authorship: He has written several books on baseball, sharing his experiences and offering tips to aspiring ballhawks.
- YouTube Channel: Hample runs a popular YouTube channel where he documents his ballhawking adventures, providing insights and entertainment to his audience.
- Charity Work: He has leveraged his fame to support charitable causes, including raising funds for Pitch In For Baseball, an organization that provides equipment to underprivileged youth.
Conclusion
As of 2022, Zack Hample’s collection exceeds 12,000 baseballs, a testament to his enduring passion for the game. Through dedication, strategy, and a deep love for baseball, Hample has carved out a unique niche in the sport’s culture, inspiring both admiration and debate among fans and observers alike.
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