The Baltimore Orioles’ official mascot does indeed have a name. The bird mascot has gone by the name “The Oriole Bird” since his debut in 1979.
History of the Oriole Bird Mascot
The concept of a mascot for the Baltimore Orioles first came about in the mid-1970s when the son of traveling secretary Jack Simon saw performer Pat Proft dressed up as a bird at a San Diego Padres game. Simon suggested to Orioles owner Jerold Hoffberger that the team should have a mascot like the San Diego Chicken. In 1979, an orange and black bird costume was created and debuted outside of Memorial Stadium to surprise fans headed into the ballpark. The surprise unveiling was fitting for the Orioles, since Baltimore is also the home of Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “The Raven”. While initially unnamed, by the 1980s the bird had come to be known as “The Oriole Bird.”
Oriole Bird’s Design and Personality
The Oriole Bird’s early costume design was more abstract and cartoonish compared to later versions. Over the years, the costume evolved to look more like a real oriole, with detailed feather markings and a more realistic beak added. The eyes were also made bigger and more expressive. Another notable change was switching from a full head mask with a movable beak to a stationary beak with the performer’s face exposed. This allowed the mascot to display more personality and expression.
In terms of personality, the Oriole Bird brought plenty of humor, mischief, and high energy to engage fans. Some of his recurring gags included shooting hot dogs from a launcher, heckling opposing players, dancing on the dugouts, and participating in skits during in-game breaks. His playful, irreverent attitude echoed the department store stunts of the original San Diego Chicken that inspired his creation.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
Beyond just Orioles fans, the Oriole Bird gained national recognition over the years as one of the premiere MLB mascots. He made regular appearances on nationally televised games, commercials, and blooper reels showing his antics. Some of his accolades and honors include:
- Named “Most Cheered Mascot” by USA Today Fan Poll in 1989
- Winner of the Key to the City by Baltimore mayors on multiple occasions
- Inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in 2005
- Selected as “Favorite Mascot” by Sports Illustrated for Kids magazine in 2007
The Oriole Bird also set several “mascot firsts” that paved the way for other sports mascots:
- First American League mascot in 1979
- First mascot to appear on a national TV morning show (Good Morning America) in 1980
- First mascot to do a TV commercial (Esskay Meats) in 1981
Trademarks and Lawsuits
As the Oriole Bird’s fame grew beyond just the team and city of Baltimore, there were occasions when his image and likeness were used without permission. To protect their intellectual property, the Orioles applied for trademarks and copyrights starting in the late 1980s.
One notable lawsuit occurred in 1992 when the team sued the state of Maryland over an unauthorized Oriole Bird image on brochures and t-shirts promoting the new Camden Yards stadium. The case was settled with the state agreeing to purchase $16,500 in licensed Bird merchandise to distribute instead.
Trademarked Elements
Some of the key trademarks obtained over the years include:
- Name registration for “Oriole Bird” in 1989
- Costume design copyright in 1993
- Exclusive use of the bird name and logo on clothing in 1995
These trademarks allow the Orioles to protect and control commercial uses of the Oriole Bird’s name, image, and likeness.
Oriole Bird Performers Over the Years
While one official Oriole Bird character has existed since 1979, several performers have portrayed the mascot over the decades. They brought their own unique personalities and quirks to the role during their respective tenures.
Performers by Year
| Performer | Years Active |
|---|---|
| John Bailey | 1979 |
| Trish Bankert | 1980–1981 |
| Cheryl Bowers | 1982–1983 |
| Carolyn Grehl | 1984 |
| Kelly Cline | 1985–1987 |
| Greg Winters | 1988–1993 |
| Kenny Magielnicki | 1994 |
| Ernie Tyler | 1995 |
| Kevin Buckner | 1996–1998 |
| Jay Hash | 1999–2001 |
| Brian Billick | 2002–2003 |
| Tom Davis | 2004–today |
Longest Tenures
The longest running performers of the Oriole Bird include:
- Greg Winters: 6 seasons (1988–1993)
- Tom Davis: 19 seasons (and counting!) from 2004–today
Tom Davis holds the record for most years in the role and has become the definitive Oriole Bird for a generation of fans.
Responsibilities and Game Day Routine
Being the Oriole Bird is more than just wearing a costume to entertain fans. It’s a demanding performance role that requires athleticism, improv skills, and organization.
Responsibilities
The Oriole Bird’s main responsibilities include:
- Appearing in the costume at all Orioles home games (80+ per season)
- Interacting with fans of all ages and getting them excited about the game
- Posing for photos and giving autographs for fans
- Performing skits and gags during seventh inning stretches and other breaks in the action
- Dancing on the dugouts to pump up the crowd
- Rallying fans when the team needs motivation
- Participating in community events and promotional appearances
Game Day Routine
On game days, the Oriole Bird has a structured routine to prepare:
- Morning: Eat a good breakfast, pack supplies, review script and gags for the game.
- 3 Hours Before Game: Arrive at stadium to get dressed in full costume and prepare equipment like the hot dog launcher.
- 90 Minutes Before Game: Do a test run on the field to make sure costume and props are working.
- 60 Minutes Before Game: Head out to the gates and plaza to greet fans as they arrive and take pictures.
- First Pitch: Return to the field to perform skits and dances during player introductions.
- Throughout Game: Continue engaging with fans in the stands during breaks in play.
- After Game: Last lap around the field waving to fans as they exit and high five kids.
It’s a tiring process to pump up crowds of tens of thousands for 3+ hours straight. But the Oriole Bird is a consummate professional!
Best Skits and Gags
One of the Oriole Bird’s main goals over the years has been making fans laugh. He has developed signature skits and gags that always get the crowd roaring. Some all-time favorites include:
Hot Dog Launcher
Arguably the Oriole Bird’s most iconic routine – he “shoots” hot dogs from a customized air cannon into the stands for fans to catch (and eat). This combines comedy, skill, and crowd interaction all in one.
Dancing on the Dugouts
During breaks in the game, the Bird will jump up on the Oriole’s dugout roof to show off his dance moves and energize the fans. His uninhibited style gets everyone on their feet.
Pop-Up Antics
The Oriole Bird has mastered the art of perfectly timed pop-ups – peeking over walls or suddenly emerging from hidden areas to surprise fans. His mischievous grin sells the gag each time.
Teasing the Umpires
Like any good Oriole fan, the Bird enjoys playfully mocking the umpires’ questionable calls. Whether gesturing in disbelief or doing slapstick reactions, he captures the crowd’s frustration and joy.
Stealing Opponents’ Hats
When the opposing team is in the dugout, the Oriole Bird will sneak up and nab their hats to show his Orioles pride. But he always returns them – sometimes to the players’ heads directly.
Charity Work and Community Service
In addition to his antics at the ballpark, the Oriole Bird makes appearances year-round at charitable events and community activities. This demonstrates the mascot’s civic-minded side and gives back to Baltimore.
Hospital Visits
For over 30 years, the Oriole Bird has visited children’s hospitals, senior centers, and special needs facilities. These trips brighten patients’ days and spread cheer.
Fundraisers and Awareness Campaigns
You’ll find the Oriole Bird actively supporting fundraisers and awareness campaigns for worthy causes like animal rescue, children’s literacy, fighting homelessness, and more.
Youth Baseball Clinics
As baseball’s ambassador, the Oriole Bird frequently hosts free clinics for kids to teach fundamentals, build skills, and inspire the next generation of O’s fans.
Military and First Responder Events
The Oriole Bird makes supporting our troops and first responders a priority by attending ceremonies, baseball games, hospital visits, and other events year-round for these heroes.
The Oriole Bird takes these volunteer activities to heart. His civic participation demonstrates commitment to Baltimore’s community.
Legacy and Impact on Baltimore
Over 40+ years, the Oriole Bird has become an iconic institution in Baltimore and Maryland culture. His impact goes far beyond baseball into the fabric of the city itself.
Pop Culture Symbol
The Oriole Bird is instantly recognizable to Baltimore natives and fans. He is stamped on merchandise, incorporated into local advertisements, and appears at city events year-round. The Bird is a symbol of local pride.
Tourism Draw
Out-of-town fans make seeing the Oriole Bird a must-do part of their visit to Camden Yards. His nationwide fame as a sports mascot adds to the Baltimore tourism experience.
Civic Ambassador
As Baltimore’s most beloved mascot, the Oriole Bird represents the city’s character traits – charm, resilience, humor, and heart. He’s the civic ambassador fans expect at parades, charity events, and grand openings.
Cross-Generational Memories
Multiple generations of Baltimore families have fond memories of the Oriole Bird entertaining them over the decades. He creates lasting bonds between parents, kids, and grandparents.
The Oriole Bird’s spirit and shenanigans will forever be linked to Baltimore’s history and personality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Oriole Bird has been an integral part of Baltimore Orioles baseball and culture since debuting in 1979. With his characteristic humor, athleticism, and showmanship, the Oriole Bird energizes fans during games and delights the community year-round at events. His iconic costume and antics have earned him recognition as one of the premiere mascots in American sports over his 40+ year history. While several talented performers have portrayed the Oriole Bird, they keep his spirit of fun and hijinks alive. Beyond just entertainment, the Oriole Bird represents Baltimore’s civic pride, brings the community together, and creates cherished multi-generational memories. He will forever be a symbol of the city’s heart and soul. Let’s Go O’s!
