You’re invited to witness history come alive, thanks to Kentucky to the World, a nonprofit that strives to lift up stories of innovation, legacy and creativity! On Thursday, Feb. 27, the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory Theatre presents “Behind the Bat,” where Jack Hillerich, fourth-generation leader of Hillerich & Bradsby Co., will share his journey of the triumphs and challenges that came with shaping this historic baseball brand over the decades.
The Louisville Slugger is bigger than just a bat—it’s iconic and central to baseball itself. And Jack’s story is bigger than baseball, representing how a resilient spirit and powerful vision can inspire innovation. What started with his grandfather’s first bat in 1884 grew into partnerships with legends including Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth, transforming alongside the sport through innovations like patented gloves and aluminum bats. At only 28, Jack took on leadership roles to carry out his family legacy, building up The Louisville Slugger brand as we know it today.
Rick Redman, the evening’s interviewer, is Vice President of Corporate Communications at Hillerich & Bradsby Co. and KTW Board Member. In a press release, he stated, “As someone who has worked closely with Jack, I can say this program will reveal a side of Louisville Slugger and Jack Hillerich that many people have never heard before. His passion for innovation and his deep connection to the game of baseball make his story both fascinating and inspiring.”
So baseball fans, innovators, and lovers of legendary stories alike, come get inspired! The cash bar reception starts at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program at 6:30, and is sponsored by the Republic Bank Foundation as well as support from Hillerich & Bradsby Co. Buy tickets at kentuckytotheworld.org.
Press release provided by Nora Bryant at Kentucky to the World.
This article appears in Feb 14-27, 2025.
