The Hazard Bombers played in the Mountain States League from 1948 to 1952, a Class D circuit comparable to today’s Rookie League. The team began that first season as the Oak Ridge Bombers in Tennessee, but despite a 24-11 start, poor attendance forced owner Bob Broome to relocate the club 150 miles to Hazard, Kentucky. Nestled in the coal-rich mountains of Appalachia, Hazard welcomed professional baseball with enthusiasm, especially as the town had become more accessible by road since the railroad’s arrival in 1912.
In 1951, playing at their new Bomber Field in sharp white uniforms with blue and red accents, the Bombers exceeded expectations. Cuban pitcher Juan Torres threw a no-hitter on opening day, and by May, future Brooklyn Dodgers star Johnny Podres joined the roster, finishing the year 21-3 with a 1.67 ERA and 228 strikeouts. Fellow pitcher Dan Hayling of Costa Rica added a 21-4 record as the team cruised to a 91-33 finish, earning recognition as one of the top 100 minor league teams of all time.
The 1952 Bombers nearly matched that success with an 87-32 record, but it proved to be their swan song as the Mountain States League folded after the season. Johnny Podres would become the only Hazard player to reach the majors, while Hayling spent nine more years pitching in the Mexican League. For a brief, brilliant period, Hazard, Kentucky, was home to one of the finest teams in minor league history.
Retro Baseball Revival celebrates historic baseball teams with unique apparel, honoring their legacy and bringing history to one-of-a-kind clothing with our old school retro baseball tees from defunct Minor League Baseball teams. All of our high quality apparel is designed, printed, and shipped within the USA. Our Mountain State League collection features 100% original designs based on the history and nicknames of the league's historic teams.
Our premium lightweight shirts are the hugely popular Bella+Canvas brand 3001 tees. They are much lighter and thinner feeling than a traditional heavyweight tee. They also are more form fitting and feel more snug. These are generally 90% to 100% cotton, although please note that heather colors in this item are 52% cotton.
Size Guide: Fit is true to size or a little snug. Considering ordering one size up if you are normally between sizes.
Brand: Bella Canvas | Product ID: 3001
- Made with 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, a lightweight fabric (4.2 oz/yd² (142 g/m²)) that is easy to layer, breathable. Perfect for active and leisure wear.
- The retail fit that is perfect for casual and semi-formal settings. The crew neckline adds a classic, neat style that's perfect for accessorizing.
- Bella+Canvas manufactures all its products in the US and internationally in humane, no-sweat-shop, sustainable way and is part of the Fair Labor Association as well as Platinum WRAP certified.
- The tear-away label minimizes skin irritations.
- Fabric blends: Ash and Heather Prism colors - 99% cotton, 1% polyester; Heather and Solid Blend colors - 52% cotton, 48% polyester; Athletic Heather and Black Heather - 90% cotton, 10% polyester.
