Dodgers Pitcher Tony Gonsolin's Love of Cats & His Famous Cat Shirt

The Story Behind Tony Gonsolin's Cat Shirt

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tony Gonsolin has become known for more than just his pitching prowess on the mound. He has also developed a reputation for his love of cats and his frequent wearing of a cat shirt during interviews and pre-game warmups.

Tony Gonsolin's Passion for Felines

In a recent interview with Ben Verlander, Gonsolin opened up about his passion for cats. He explained that he first became fond of cats when he got his first kitten named Louie as a child. From that point on, Gonsolin was hooked.

"I've just always loved cats," Gonsolin told Verlander. "They have so much personality packed into such little bodies. And they're so athletic with how they jump and move. I've really just always appreciated cats."

As Gonsolin got older, his love for cats persisted. Whenever he moved into a new place, one of the first things he would do is adopt a new cat companion. At one point, Gonsolin had four cats that he cared for as pets.

The Infamous Cat Shirt

A few years ago, Gonsolin's passion for cats collided with his baseball career in an unexpected way. During spring training in Arizona one year, Gonsolin wore a baseball t-shirt covered in various cat drawings to practice one day. The shirt immediately caught attention from teammates and staff.

"Everyone seemed to get a kick out of the shirt," Gonsolin explained. "Guys were laughing, wanting to check it out up close, saying it was so me. So I just kept wearing it more often when I'd throw or workout."

Before long, Gonsolin's cat shirt became a staple for the budding MLB star both on and off the field. He began wearing it frequently when conducting interviews, drawing increased attention to his feline fandom.

A Social Media Sensation

It wasn't long before Gonsolin's cat shirt captured the imagination of Dodgers fans and cat lovers everywhere. Images and video clips featuring Gonsolin sporting the shirt went viral online, establishing the cat shirt as a key part of his persona.

"I honestly can't believe all the attention my cat shirt has gotten," said Gonsolin. "I have people tweeting pictures of themselves wearing the same shirt while watching Dodgers games from home."

Gonsolin now even sells his own personalized cat shirts in his online store due to popular demand. A portion of the proceeds from each shirt sold goes to animal rescue charities as a way for Gonsolin to give back.

Cats & Baseball: A Purrfect Match

When asked why he thinks cats and baseball seem to go so well together, Gonsolin theorized that it may have to do with both cats' and pitchers' shared athletic talents.

"Cats are quick, graceful, powerful...a lot like pitchers have to be out on the mound," he said. "I think maybe people see the parallels, where the type of focused athleticism it takes to pitch mirrors the natural abilities of cats."

Gonsolin also noted the unpredictable, independent nature of cats mirrors the ups and downs of a long baseball season. "Cats, and baseball seasons, can be unpredictable...you have to be ready to adapt," he told Verlander with a smile.

Gonsolin's Future with Felines

While Gonsolin's baseball future remains uncertain, one thing is clear - his affection for cats is here to stay. Even with the demands of his budding MLB career, Gonsolin plans to continue rescuing and caring for cats in need.

"I'll always have cats in my life in some way," said Gonsolin. "I can't imagine not having them around to brighten my day with their playfulness and affection when I come home."

So whether at home playing with his furry companions or out on the mound sporting his signature cat shirt for the Dodgers, fans can expect more cat-themed antics from Tony Gonsolin for years to come.

FAQs

How did Tony Gonsolin first start loving cats?

Gonsolin first fell in love with cats as a young boy when he got his first kitten named Louie. He enjoyed having a cat companion and liked their athleticism and personality.

Where can I buy the famous cat shirt?

Gonsolin sells his own personalized cat shirts in his online store due to popular demand. A portion of the proceeds goes to animal rescue charities.

Why does Tony Gonsolin think cats and baseball go well together?

Gonsolin sees parallels between the focused athleticism of pitchers and the quick, graceful moves of cats. He also notes the unpredictable nature of cats mirrors the ups and downs of long baseball seasons.

Will Tony Gonsolin continue rescuing cats?

Yes, Gonsolin plans to keep rescuing and caring for cats in need even as his MLB career continues. He says he can't imagine not having cats to brighten his day when he comes home.