Big League Chew – Man Sized Wads of Gum

Aug 16, 2007

Ah, 1980 – the year when Wrigley, that iconic company, introduced us to one of the most ingenious mock-tobacco treats ever created: Big League Chew. Crafted by the minds of baseball players Jim Bouton and Rob Nelson, this gum sensation found its home under the wing of Amurol Products, a part of the Wrigley family. And from the moment it hit the market, it became an instant sensation, sweeping everyone off their feet. They say the rest is history, and boy, what a sweet history it is.

Initially, Big League Chew only came in the classic bubble gum flavor, but oh, it didn’t stop there. Over time, the flavor arsenal expanded, treating us to a delightful array including cotton candy, strawberry, watermelon, sour cherry, sour apple, and let’s not forget my personal favorite – grape.

Now, let me confess my peculiar habit. I had this odd ritual of buying a pouch of grape-flavored Big League Chew and indulging in it one strand at a time. And when I say indulge, I mean indulging to the extreme – I practically ate the gum instead of just chewing it. Picture this: buying a pouch of grape goodness and savoring it all day long. My mother and sisters were both horrified and amused by my unusual snack choice. To this day, they tease me, claiming my digestive tract is probably still clogged with gum.

Now, fast forward to today, and not much has changed. Just last night, I found myself at Walgreens, unable to resist the temptation. I bought a fresh pack, tore out a man-sized wad, and popped it into my mouth. And, as if it were second nature, I ended up swallowing the gum without even thinking twice. Isn’t it funny how old habits die hard?

As I write this article, I’m making a valiant effort to nurse this second wad of Big League Chew, but truth be told, I don’t think it will last long. Why did I start this quirky habit in the first place, you ask? Was it because I was an aspiring baseball star, aiming to emulate my heroes? Not at all. I'll let you in on a little secret: I’m a total sucker for a good commercial with a catchy jingle. There’s just something about a well-executed ad that can make even a grown adult indulge in childhood delights. And so, here I am, relishing my Big League Chew, one strand at a time, all thanks to the power of a catchy jingle and a grape-flavored temptation that's simply too hard to resist.

Sit back, pop in a man-sized wad, click play and sing along.

You’re in the big league — damn, swallowed by gum.