Tortoises are not often associated with professional sports. They aren’t known for their speed, and their collective noun is—appropriately—a “creep.” So, when I saw a sports headline with “tortoise” in the title, I was immediately intrigued.
From Pocket Pancakes to Pocket Reptiles
The tortoise is the latest chapter of a bizarre story that began with “pocket pancakes.” Yes, I was confused, too! It all started with Milwaukee Brewers’ manager Pat Murphy. During an interview, Murphy pulled a pancake out of his pocket for a mid-game snack. This quirky moment went viral, leading to actual “Pocket Pancakes” being sold at concession stands during Sunday games.
Wanting to build on the pancake publicity for a recent interview, Murphy decided to pull something else out of his pocket. You guessed it: he pulled out a live tortoise.
Meet Bobby Jr.
Murphy had originally requested a turtle from the staff. A member of the Kansas City Royals’ crew was tasked with obtaining one—not a figurine, but a living, breathing animal. The closest pet store provided what was actually a 4–5 inch Sulcata tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata). Based on that size, I’d guess the little one is about 1 to 2 years old—just the right size for a pocket, but perhaps not the right place for one.
The team named the tortoise Bobby Jr., after superstar shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (whose father, Bobby Sr., was also a professional pitcher).
The Reality of Raising a Giant
While the players enjoyed interacting with Bobby Jr. in the clubhouse during a rain delay, this “publicity stunt” raises significant concerns for a biologist and reptile enthusiast like myself.
- Safety First: Sticking a live animal in a pocket is risky for the creature. Murphy was also worried about being bitten, though at that age, they are quite docile.
- Rapid Growth: I call the tortoise “it” because they are impossible to sex at that size. However, Sulcatas are the third-largest tortoise species in the world. They can grow to weigh 200 lbs and live for over 80 years.
- Logistical Nightmares: The team quickly discovered that reptiles are not allowed on American Airlines, meaning Bobby Jr. couldn’t fly home with them.
A Lessons in Responsible Ownership
Fortunately, a staff member’s mother stepped up to care for the tortoise temporarily, and the team agreed he needs a “forever home.” As someone who has rescued two adult Sulcatas myself, I know that housing them is a massive challenge. Once they outgrow a backyard, they are frequently surrendered or dumped by overwhelmed owners.
I worry that this stunt may increase impulse buys of these long-lived giants. I truly hope Bobby Jr. finds a responsible, expert home. Sulcatas have wonderful personalities, but they deserve a life that lasts 80 years—not just one baseball season.
Is your child interested in desert dwellers? Download my Tortoise Workbook to learn more about these incredible “tank” like creatures!