Did You Know - Big League Chew Gum Edition

Things You Didn't Know About Big League Chew

2. A real-life ball player invented the stuff

• Inspired by the game he loved and the players around him, Portland Mavericks ball player Rob Nelson first came up with the idea for Big League Chew in the summer of 1977. Almost 40 years later, Nelson continues to stand behind his creation and maintains full rights and creative control over the product. And you better bet that come Halloween, his door is the best one to knock on.

8. The first batch was made in a 15-year-old's kitchen

• Todd Field first attended Nelson's baseball camp in Portland and soon after became the Mavericks' batboy. Nelson didn't have a kitchen of his own, so he employed Field’s kitchen to test out his concept. Nelson also happened to be dating Field's older sister at the time. Todd Field has since gone on to become an actor and three-time Academy Award-nominated filmmaker. Chew on that.

12. It's in the Baseball Hall of Fame

• Informally inducted in November of this past year as part of the Whole New Ballgame exhibit, Big League Chew proudly sits on display, featured under the baseball advertising section. The new exhibit covers baseball history from the 1970s onwards. Be sure to check it out during your next trip to Cooperstown.

Complete list (Thrillist.com)