All In A Day's Work

The Phillie Phanatic is one of the most lovable mascots in
all of sports. Even after a hot, grueling day full of mini bats
and tail pulling, the Phanatic can still make almost anyone
laugh at his antics.

The next time you think you have the worst job in the world, just remember, it could be worse – you could be a mascot.

While most of us enjoy the luxuries of air conditioning and a stationary lifestyle behind a desk, there are those out there sweating it out in the summer heat, making not much more than minimum wage. Granted, most of those involved are young enough to handle the extreme temperature, but being a mascot is a job I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.

Not only are you having to lug around a 20 to 40-plus pound sweater and oversized shoes – effectively turning the fluffy costume into an oven – but there are plenty of other hazards to look out for. Just ask the Phillie Phanatic.

A few weeks ago the man inside the lovable green goofball was on the receiving end of a foul ball. The ball struck the mascot in the neck – or directly on the man's head. Being the trooper that he is, the actor continued to dance and put hexes on opposing pitchers. But it was to no avail, as two innings later he was taken in for treatment, never to return to the game.

Foul balls aren't the only obstacle mascots encounter. There's also the dreaded kiddos.

While the University of Missouri's Truman the Tiger is known for his tail-twirling ways, other mascots know how kids see tails – as something to be unexpectedly pulled, yanked and twisted at a moment's notice. Many a mascot have lost their hind quarters because an overzealous toddler latched on at an inopportune time. I, too, have been guilty of pulling at the tail of the Omaha Racers' Rowdy a time or two when I was a kid.

As if foul balls and tail pulling isn't enough, there's always one night a year every mascot fears. That's right, I'm talking about mini bat night.

Imagine a bunch of kiddies full of cotton candy and ice cream with mini clubs in their hands. They want to hit something and the only thing they can spot is a giant fluffy creature – turning said fluffy creature into a oversized piñata. Napoleon Bonaparte himself has never faced such a fearsome army.

So the next time you head out to the ballpark, remember all the people behind the scenes that make the game enjoyable. From the beer man to the mascot, they're out there sweating it out and taking lumps with mini mallets so that you and your family can have the ultimate experience. And if you see a mascot trying to entertain you, don't hesitate to laugh. For them, that's the biggest perk of the job.