Pillbox Bat Company, a baseball bat manufacturer hailing from Winona, Minnesota, has been making a significant impact in the industry for nearly a decade. Established in 2015 by Zak Fellman and Dan Watson, the company has gained recognition for its unique approach to baseball bats, transforming them into art pieces intended for display as sports memorabilia.
The company’s inspiration for its name, Pillbox Bat Company, is a nod to an old St. Paul baseball park, affectionately nicknamed ‘The Pillbox’ due to its remarkably small size. This connection to the historical roots of baseball in St. Paul adds a distinctive and nostalgic touch to the brand.
Pillbox Bat Company distinguishes itself by crafting 200 to 300 art baseball bats weekly, utilizing high-quality maple and ash wood. These bats are not designed for active gameplay but rather art for baseball enthusiasts and collectors.
Co-founder Zak Fellman emphasizes the artistic aspect of their creations, expressing joy in contributing to the world of baseball fandom through their unique approach. The company’s commitment to turning baseball bats into art has resonated with fans.
In a notable achievement, Pillbox Bat Company received approval from Major League Baseball (MLB) last year to license many of its products. This milestone positions the company among a select few globally, with the privilege of featuring the official MLB logo on their bats for retail purposes. Fellman proudly notes that Pillbox Bat Company is one of only two or three companies worldwide with this exclusive authorization, metaphorically stating that they have been “called up to the big leagues” with the recognition and approval of Major League Baseball.
original posting at KSTP