Every role in baseball is important, but losing Layla’s role on the Clearwater Threshers is sure to be a particularly tough loss. In case you didn’t know, Layla is a white Labrador retriever. For six years, she retrieved bats during the team’s games — and she did an absolutely incredible job! It’s clear she enjoyed her time as a bat dog, but after so many years on the job, it’s time for her to retire.
But having this beloved dog retire couldn’t be a small moment. On the contrary, the team made sure to give her the send-off she deserves. This took place during a game against Fort Myers last Friday. This is when Layla performed her job as bat dog for the very last time. Watch the adorable moment in the video below!
@espn Just the best of gals 🐶 (@Threshers) #dog #baseball #Milb ♬ original sound – ESPN
It’s so heartwarming to hear so many folks in the audience cheer Layla on as she retrieves yet another bat after six years on the job. But if you’re feeling a bit down for Layla, don’t worry — this pup is excited for retirement. In fact, she started celebrating right away with a well deserved snack, as seen below.
Bat Dog Layla Retires, Earning Herself a Warm Send-Off and a Tasty Treat
Lots and lots of treats! Dad had to put the bat away is all 🩵 pic.twitter.com/VysHF36ozc
— Malmö Oat Milkers | Clearwater Threshers (@Threshers) July 20, 2024
How did Layla get hired for such a unique role? This opportunity stems from a viral video in 2018. Her owner, Andrew Davis, had taught her how to bring him a beer from the refrigerator. This is what gave Dominic Repper, manager of promotions and game entertainment with the Threshers, the brilliant idea for the role of bat dog.
From there, Layla was trained to add “baseball bat” to the growing list of items she’s able to successfully fetch for humans. It goes to show that even the silliest of ideas can have a lasting, positive impact on countless lives!
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here!
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