Sluggers Bar is in the process of replacing its iconic neon sign after more than three decades, but the new one is sparking mixed reactions due to both a grammatical error and its resemblance to male anatomy.
While some may perceive the new sign as reminiscent of certain anatomy, that’s not the reason the baseball-bat-shaped LED sign arrived at the bar this week, only to be sent back for a quick edit.
Zach Strauss, who operates Sluggers World Class Sports Bar and Grill alongside his siblings, clarified that the sign issue is simply a misplaced apostrophe in “dueling piano’s” that needs correction before installation. Strauss anticipates the new sign will be up in the next few weeks, just in time for the opening day at Wrigley Field according to Block Club.
Addressing the feedback, Strauss shrugged off the criticism, emphasizing that it’s a sports bar, not a hospital. He acknowledged the jokes about its appearance but attributed them mostly to regular patrons of Sluggers.
The unveiling of the sign will be marked with a celebration, where drink prices will harken back to 1985, when Strauss’ father established the bar. Over the years, Sluggers has become renowned for its dueling piano shows, batting cages, and vibrant ambiance.
The decision to replace the current sign was driven by its deteriorating condition, with rust and flickering issues, exacerbated by rain. As finding neon gas for refurbishment became more challenging, the Strauss brothers opted for a new sign, sourced from Omega Signs & Lighting Inc.
Despite the viral attention on social media regarding the new sign’s phallic shape and the nostalgia for the old marquee, the Strauss brothers remain unperturbed.
David Strauss highlighted that change can be difficult, acknowledging people’s attachment to the familiar. However, the family endeavors to maintain Sluggers’ classic charm while making necessary updates, such as installing a taller fence around the patio for the upcoming summer season.
The sentiment is echoed by Zach Strauss, who fondly recalls accompanying his father to select the original Sluggers sign over three decades ago. As for the old sign’s fate, it won’t be discarded but repurposed in a manner that honors the bar’s legacy.
Reflecting on their journey, Zach Strauss expressed pride in their multi-generational customer base and a commitment to perpetuating Sluggers’ legacy.
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