Each fur baby you raise has their own set of special skills. One may be a pro at standing on their hind legs and closing doors, and another may be able to fetch you — and them — snacks from the pantry when needed.
A Black Labrador Retriever called Champ has stepped up to the plate and claimed the role of Bat Dog for the Durham Bulls minor league baseball team in North Carolina. And he’s living every dog’s dream in this TikTok video posted by @espnatbat. Can you feel the anticipation as this Black Lab patiently waits to complete his job during the team’s latest game?
@espnatbat When Champ hears the crack of the bat, he knows what time it is! The best bat boy around 🐶 (via @Durham Bulls) #dog #baseball #doggo
Seriously, there isn’t a more perfect job for a Labrador Retriever! He gets the opportunity to fetch bats, and he gets applauded by tons of adoring fans for doing a good job. As shown in the video, Champ is ready and alert the second the batter is up. The video post caption said it best, “When Champ hears the crack of the bat, he knows what time it is!” A few seconds later, he sprints off to grab the discarded bat and bring it back.
If you scan the comments, it’s clear Champ is about to be a few people’s new reason to tune in to more summer baseball games. “This should be mandatory for every team,” said TikTok user @hoosti2 about Champ’s obvious contributions to the game.
“Champ is the MVP of bat boys; that crack means it’s playtime!” wrote @ariaxvadams, and this dog is a very special member of the team.
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“I absolutely love the way the crowd gives Champ a big round of applause,” added @johnforbes451, and he’s not alone in that sentiment. Many other comments agree that Champ deserves every clap and cheer.
How did Champ get to be a Bat Dog?
Well, the athletic gene apparently runs in the family. His older brother was Ripken The Bat Dog. Unfortunately, the Associated Press reported Ripken passed away a few months ago “from a serious undiagnosed medical condition.” Champ has been trained, and MiLB.com announced he would be able able to honor his big brother’s legacy by taking up the mantle.
He’s been at it for a few months, and it seems like this Black Lab is doing well. Take a look at footage from the @durhambulls TikTok page of one of Champ’s first games.
@durhambulls Welcome to the team, Champ! Your brother would be proud! @Ripken The Bat Dog @Naturally Healthy Pets #MiLB #MLB
Champ is stealing hearts and swiping up bats, and fans can’t wait to see him in action at the next game. He’ll be at select ones throughout the year, so don’t miss out. Champ is one of the greatest Bat Dogs around!