Layla: The Legendary Bat Dog of the Clearwater Threshers
For six unforgettable seasons, Layla—a white Labrador Retriever—served as the Clearwater Threshers’ official bat dog, capturing the hearts of fans, players, and baseball enthusiasts across the country. Her legacy is more than just adorable bat retrievals; it’s a story of loyalty, community, and pure joy.
1. What Is a “Bat Dog”?
In minor league baseball, a bat dog is trained to retrieve bats from the field after players drop them. More than just a cute novelty, bat dogs become integral parts of the team, providing entertainment and building stronger bonds with fans. Layla took this role seriously—and joyfully—delighting crowds at every home game.
2. Layla’s Early Days
Layla was adopted and trained by Andrew Davis, who first gained attention when he shared a viral video of her retrieving a beer from the fridge. Her intelligence and work ethic were immediately clear, and she was soon introduced to a new calling: baseball.
In 2018, Layla officially joined the Clearwater Threshers, the Single-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, taking on the bat dog role at BayCare Ballpark. Although she wasn’t initially trained to pick up bats, she quickly learned the ropes.
3. Six Seasons of Bat Dog Glory
Between 2018 and 2024, Layla became a fan-favorite fixture at Threshers games. She would calmly trot onto the field after each at-bat, pick up the wooden bat with her mouth, and return it to the dugout with pride.
Some highlights from her career include:
- Boos for players who retrieved their own bats (fans wanted to see Layla do it!).
- Her final bat run on July 19, 2024, against the Fort Myers Mighty Muscles.
- Hundreds of appearances, with thousands of fans cheering her on.
She also served as a gentle ambassador for the Threshers at community events, meet-and-greets, and social media campaigns.
4. Retirement and the Rise of Lucy May
In July 2024, the Threshers hosted a retirement ceremony for Layla. But she wasn’t leaving the field alone—she brought her 10-month-old adoptive sister, Lucy May, to the event, introducing her as the next generation of bat dog.
Lucy May made her official debut on August 23, 2024, during a special “Beach Dog Friday” game. While she was still young and playful—at one point running freely around the field—fans saw the same spark that Layla once had.
5. Saying Goodbye to a Legend
In July 2025, the Clearwater Threshers shared the heartbreaking news that Layla had passed away. Although retired, she was still deeply loved by the team and community. At 13 years old, she had lived a full and cherished life.
The team and local news outlets celebrated her life, remembering her legacy as more than just a bat dog—she was a symbol of positivity, playfulness, and team spirit.
6. Why Layla Mattered
Layla was more than a gimmick—she was a part of the team.
- For kids, she was a reason to love baseball.
- For adults, she was a reminder of joy in simple things.
- For players, she was a calming and happy presence in a competitive sport.
Her loyalty and charm made her a mascot in spirit, if not in name.
7. What She Taught Us
Layla showed us:
- That animals bring people together.
- That sports can be fun, wholesome, and heartwarming.
- That a dog can become just as iconic as any star player.
She also demonstrated how thoughtfully incorporating animals into public events can elevate community engagement—especially in family-friendly settings like minor league baseball.
8. Her Legacy Lives On
Even though Layla is no longer running across the field, her legacy continues through Lucy May, who now carries the torch (and the bat) in Clearwater.
Fans will never forget Layla’s confident stride, her sweet face, and the way she made every game feel a little more magical.
Sources
- CBS News – Beloved Bat Dog Layla passes torch to Lucy May in Clearwater
- 6ABC – Layla, 13-year-old bat dog for Phillies minor league team, retires after 6 seasons
- WTSP – Clearwater Threshers retired bat dog Layla has died
- Tampa Bay Times – Clearwater Threshers’ bat dog Layla dies after long baseball career
- ABC Action News – Beloved Clearwater Threshers bat dog Layla passes away
- MiLB – Layla to introduce Lucy May at Threshers game
- Bleacher Report – Layla the Bat Dog grabs final bat before retirement
