Sign of the Times

The umpire makes a gesture and you know if a pitch was a ball or a strike. But have you ever wondered how that simple communication came to be?

William “Dummy” Hoy, a Cincinnati Reds outfielder and Reds Hall of Famer, is widely credited with helping shape the visual language still used throughout baseball today. Hoy, who was Deaf, played 14 professional seasons in the late 1800s. His presence in the game helped influence the use of hand signals for balls, strikes, safe, and out calls – a system that remains central to baseball more than a century later. (Even with the advent of ABS!)

Dummy Hoy Day
Saturday, May 23, 5-7 p.m.
The Banks, ahead of the Reds vs. Cardinals game.

The birthday celebration offers complimentary cookies honoring Hoy, and a meet and greet with Marty Brennaman.

Sign your name for Dummy Hoy to be the Baseball Hall of Fame at signforhoy.com/petition.

Cincinnati celebrates the birthday of one of its most influential yet often overlooked sports pioneers with Dummy Hoy Day on Saturday, May 23.

The family-friendly event honors William “Dummy” Hoy, the Cincinnati Reds outfielder and Reds Hall of Famer, widely credited with helping shape the visual language still used throughout baseball today. Hoy became one of the era’s most respected leadoff hitters.

Event highlights include live “Dummy Hoy” activation featuring interactive storytelling and historical moments from Hoy’s career, mascot appearances with photo opportunities and fan engagement. During the pregame events, local and regional Deaf advocacy organizations will share information, with ASL integration and inclusive programming woven throughout the event 

The celebration comes amid growing recognition of Hoy’s lasting impact on the game and American sports culture. 

The event is led by Deafinitely For All Entertainment, a Deaf founded production company that empowers deaf/hard of hearing talent through film and media.