• We’re all missing our favorite professional sports leagues since the coronavirus pandemic shuttered the entire United States back in March.
  • While we wait for the action to pick back up, I decided to do some research on the mascots from each team in the Big Four leagues – the MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL.
  • From Mr. Met and the Phillie Phanatic to Benny the Bull and, of course, Gritty, here is my arbitrary yet definitive ranking of all 110 mascots across the biggest sports leagues in America.
  • Visit Business Insider’s homepage for more stories.

110. Al the Octopus — Detroit Red Wings (NHL)

Foto: Zamboni driver Al Sobotka and Al the Octopus. Source: REUTERS/Rebecca Cook

On the one hand, Detroit Red Wings fans’ enduring tradition of throwing live octopuses onto the ice for good luck is both incredibly unique and strangely impressive. The fact that long-time Zamboni driver Al Sobotka whips said octopuses above his head just adds to the hilarity and bizarreness. But, when it comes down to it, animal cruelty is never cool, so the Red Wings mascot gets low marks from me.


109. Raider Rusher — Las Vegas Raiders (NFL)

Foto: Raider Rusher of the Las Vegas Raiders. Source: Hector Vivas/LatinContent via Getty Images

Horrifying.

Let’s hope what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, in this instance.


108. Captain Fear — Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Foto: Captain Fear of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Source: Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

If not for the fact that my editor is a Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan, Captain Fear may have had a shot at the last spot on this list. That said, the thought of Tom Brady cozying up to this guy brings me great joy.


107. The Gorilla — Phoenix Suns (NBA)

Foto: The Gorilla of the Phoenix Suns. Source: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Why, though? The mascot is almost as bad as the team itself, and we all know that's saying something.


106. Rowdy — Dallas Cowboys (NFL)

Foto: Rowdy of the Dallas Cowboys. Source: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Nope. And not just because I'm a New York Giants fan.


105. Lucky the Leprechaun —Boston Celtics (NBA)

Foto: Lucky the Leprechaun of the Boston Celtics. Source: Jim Rogash/Getty Images

No one wants to see a real, human face on their mascot. Sorry to this man.


104. The Swinging Friar — San Diego Padres (MLB)

Foto: The Swinging Friar of the San Diego Padres. Source: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The Swinging Friar is meant to honor the Spanish Franciscan friars who established the mission that eventually formed San Diego. Even though this intention is admirable, the execution is more than a bit offputting. And don't get me started on the fact that I can see his toes.


103. Stinger — Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)

Foto: Stinger of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Source: Jamie Sabau/NHLI via Getty Images

Stinger makes absolutely no sense. According to NHL.com, Stinger - a Yellowjacket who is inexplicably green - represents the "hard work and pride for their team" Columbus fans are known for. I'm not seeing it.


102. Pat Patriot — New England Patriots (NFL)

Foto: Pat Patriot of the New England Patriots. Source: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Pat Patriot - the Revolutionary War soldier who serves as the New England Patriots' mascot - is not my cup of tea. Get it? Revolutionary War? Boston Tea Party?


101. Clutch — Houston Rockets (NBA)

Foto: Clutch of the Houston Rockets. Source: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Clutch is supposed to be a bear, but he looks more like a mouse. Either way, neither mascot has anything to do with the Rockets or the city of Houston. Low marks from me, even if his motorcycle is cool.


100. D. Baxter the Bobcat — Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)

Foto: D. Baxter the Bobcat of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Source: Carlos Herrera/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Arizona Diamondbacks have a mascot that is a bobcat? How does that make any sense? Snake or bust, in my opinion.


99. Pierre T. Pelican — New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)

Foto: Pierre T. Pelican of the New Orleans Pelicans. Source: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Both Pierre T. Pelican's name and genealogy represent New Orleans beautifully, but that's where the beauty ends when it comes to the New Orleans Pelicans' mascot. I'm sorry, but he's scary looking, and I'm not the only one who thinks so.


98. Tommy Hawk — Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)

Foto: Tommy Hawk of the Chicago Blackhawks. Source: Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images

Same thing as Pierre T. Pelican, but he gets the edge because the Blackhawks are amongst the NHL's best.


97. The Coyote — San Antonio Spurs (NBA)

Foto: The Coyote of the San Antonio Spurs. Source: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports

Well, he's unique. That's for sure.

I'll leave it there.


96. Rampage — Los Angeles Rams (NFL)

Foto: Rampage of the Los Angeles Rams. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Listen, I feel for Rampage. I really do. It's tough to rally the fans where there is no fanbase to speak of. Still, those creepy eyes aren't helping the cause.


95. Chance — Vegas Golden Knights

Foto: Chance of the Vegas Golden Knights. Source: AP Photo/Isaac Brekken

Vegas waited years for a professional sports team, and after getting one at long last, the franchise went ahead and flubbed on the mascot. Chance is a Gila Monster, and not only do I hate him and find him scary, but he doesn't even make sense! Gila Monsters are normally orangey-pink and black, but the Golden Knights changed Chance's look to match the team's color scheme. I just don't get it.


94. Steely McBeam — Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL)

Foto: Steely McBeam of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Source: George Gojkovich/Getty Images)

I'm really just not a huge fan of human-based mascots. I will say, though, Steely McBeam could cut glass with that jaw. Good for him.


93. The Oriole Bird — Baltimore Orioles (MLB)

Foto: The Oriole Bird of the Baltimore Orioles. Source: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

I'm sorry, Baltimore Orioles fans. You don't need to endure any more pain and suffering than your team already puts you through. But, frankly, I find The Oriole Bird offputting. I don't know why.


92. Fin the Whale — Vancouver Canucks (NHL)

Foto: Fin the Whale of the Vancouver Canucks. Source: Icon Sportswire / Contributor

I just don't think he really looks like a whale. He also scares perfectly innocent babies. He's canceled.


91. Rangers Captain — Texas Rangers (MLB)

Foto: Rangers Captain of the Texas Rangers. Source: Getty Images

The Texas Rangers mascot, Rangers Captain, is a palomino horse that many fans find quite creepy. I have no plans to travel to Arlington, Texas, to get an up-close look, so I guess I'll have to take their word for it.


90. Jazz Bear — Utah Jazz (NBA)

Foto: Jazz Bear of the Utah Jazz. Source: AP Photo/Rick Bowmer

Jazz Bear kind of looks like a bear. He also kind of looks like a Wookiee. I like his headband, but he's not quite goofy enough for my taste. Sorry, Utah Jazz fans.


89. Grizz — Memphis Grizzlies (NBA)

Foto: Grizz of the Memphis Grizzlies. Source: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Same as Jazz Bear, but with worse eyebrows and a better outfit.


88. Paws — Detroit Tigers (MLB)

Foto: Paws of the Detroit Tigers. Source: Mark Cunningham/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Paws - the mascot for the Detroit Tigers - has a cute name. But his appearance is a bit strange, and I don't like his beard.


87. The Devil — New Jersey Devils (NHL)

Foto: The Devil of the New Jersey Devils. Source: AP Photo/Julio Cortez

I'm pretty much indifferent when it comes to the New Jersey Devil. He's fine. He looks like a devil. The team is called the Devils. It all makes perfect sense, but that's all.


86. Harry the Hawk — Atlanta Hawks (NBA)

Foto: Harry the Hawk of the Atlanta Hawks. Source: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Like the New Jersey Devil, Harry the Hawk makes perfect sense but offers little else. I'll give him the edge because his name is marginally more creative.


85. Poe — Baltimore Ravens (NFL)

Foto: Poe of the Baltimore Ravens. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Poe - the mascot for the Baltimore Ravens - is not incredibly creative in his appearance, but he doesn't exactly have to be. He looks like a raven and that's what counts. Plus, his name is a reference to Edgar Allan Poe, the acclaimed writer who was a Baltimore native.


84. Mick E. Moose — Winnipeg Jets (NHL)

Foto: Mick E. Moose of the Winnipeg Jets. Source: Jonathan Kozub/NHLI via Getty Images

Not to be confused with Mickey Mouse of Disney fame, Mick E. Moose is the faithful mascot of the Winnipeg Jets. His big teeth and bushy, gray eyebrows make him look a bit creepy, in my opinion. That said, his flying hat - which plays on the name "Jets" - is fantastic.


83. Slamson the Lion — Sacramento Kings (NBA)

Foto: Slamson the Lion of the Sacramento Kings. Source: AP Photo/Chris Szagola

Lions are the kings of the jungle, so it makes sense that the Sacramento Kings would recruit a high-flying, dunking big cat as their mascot. Honestly, I think his face a bit too detailed for a mascot, but he's not offensive in any way.


82. Bailey the Lion — Los Angeles Kings (NHL)

Foto: Bailey the Lion of the Los Angeles Kings. Source: AP Photo/Michael Owen Baker

It's not Bailey the Lion's fault that there are two "Kings" franchises in California, but nobody asked for another generic lion mascot. Sorry to this man.


81. Roary — Detroit Lions (NFL)

Foto: Roary of the Detroit Lions. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Another one! Roary looks like he doesn't know where he is 100% of the time. You're in Detroit, Roary! He edges out those other Lions thanks to his clever name.


80. Toro — Houston Texans (NFL)

Foto: Toro of the Houston Texans. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Texans' Toro is a fitting mascot for a team representing the Lone Star State, as bull riding is a Texan staple. Aside from that, Toro doesn't bring too much to the table. He's a standard mascot, and that's that.


79. Wild Wing — Anaheim Ducks (NHL)

Foto: Wild Wing of the Anaheim Ducks. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Wild Wing is supposed to be an intimidating mascot, and his fierce, dark eyes and hockey mask certainly do the job. Personally, however, I wish the Anaheim Ducks had opted for a cuter duck mascot. There's so much potential for him to be cuddly and lovable, but I will concede that his name is pretty cool.


78. Sourdough Sam — San Francisco 49ers (NFL)

Foto: Sourdough Sam of the San Francisco 49ers. Source: REUTERS/Jeff Haynes

Sourdough Sam was mining for gold at Levi's Stadium before he joined forces with San Francisco's best to rep the 49ers. He's still a human mascot, which I don't love, but the full beard and infectious smile give him a bit of a leg up on the competition.


77. KC Wolf — Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)

Foto: KC Wolf of the Kansas City Chiefs. Source: Amy Kontras-USA TODAY Sports

KC Wolf is a bit mousey looking, as far as wolves go. Still, he's the reigning Super Bowl champion, so we have to give him some props. Plus, I hear he and Patrick Mahomes are tight, which ups his street cred considerably.


76. Freddie Falcon — Atlanta Falcons (NFL)

Foto: Freddie Falcon of the Atlanta Falcons. Source: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Freddie Falcon is cute and his feathers help him stand out from the flock of bird mascots in the majors. But I won't like to you - his chicken legs weird me out a bit.


75. Harvey the Hound — Calgary Flames (NHL)

Foto: Harvey the Hound of the Calgary Flames. Source: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

I'm conflicted about Harvey, the official mascot of the Calgary Flames, and the first mascot in the entire NHL. He's a little offputting, but he's simultaneously very endearing. Part of me wants to ruffle the fur on the top of his head, but another part of me fears picking up fleas. I'll put him towards the middle of the pack, and that's exactly where he belongs, as he's a dog.


74. T.C. Bear — Minnesota Twins (MLB)

Foto: T.C. Bear of the Minnesota Twins. Source: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

T.C. Bear - which stands for Twin Cities Bear - is the mascot for the Minnesota Twins. He's essentially an overgrown teddy bear. That's really all there is to him.


73. Franklin the Dog — Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)

Foto: Franklin the Dog of the Philadelphia 76ers. Source: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Listen, I'm really not trying to start anything with the Philadelphia faithful, but Franklin the Dog really, really doesn't look like a dog. Like at all. I know he's a historical figure, but he's decidedly the worst mascot of the City of Brotherly Love. Sorry, Franklin, you're still a good boy.


72. Chomps — Cleveland Browns (NFL)

Foto: Chomps of the Cleveland Browns. Source: Jamie Sabau/Getty Images

Chomps - the mascot for the Cleveland Browns - certainly looks more like a pooch than Franklin. He's done a good job in recent years, as the Browns have begun to salvage their reputation as perennial NFL bottom-dwellers. I don't like Chomps' teeth, but I suppose they complement the name.


71. Bernie the St. Bernard — Colorado Avalanche

Foto: Bernie the St. Bernard of the Colorado Avalanche. Source: AP Photo/David Zalubowski

Bernie the St. Bernard is yet another good boy. Bernie was born on the ski slopes of Colorado but, according to his official bio, he kept running down from the mountains because his true home is on the ice.


70. Swoop — Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)

Foto: Swoop of the Philadelphia Eagles. Source: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Swoop has quite a feisty fanbase to entertain in the Philadelphia Eagles faithful. His name works, and he looks the part.


69. Orbit — Houston Astros (MLB)

Foto: Orbit of the Houston Astros. Source: Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-USA TODAY Sports

Orbit is a cute little alien who cheers for the Houston Astros. I like how his being plays on the team's name and the city's ties to NASA and space exploration.


68. Nordy — Minnesota Wild (NHL)

Foto: Nordy of the Minnesota Wild. Source: AP Photo/Paul Battaglia

Nordy is a solid mascot. He's a fuzzy, fun-loving, "Wild animal" of some variety. He also looks a lot like Crash Bandicoot, which wins him points in my book.


67. Rocky the Mountain Lion — Denver Nuggets (NBA)

Foto: Rocky the Mountain Lion of the Denver Nuggets. Source: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Rocky is very cute. Nobody's questioning that. But what else does he bring to the table? He represents the region, sure, but he's not a nugget. On the whole, I'm not that impressed.


66. Boomer — Indiana Pacers

Foto: Boomer of the Indiana Pacers. Source: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Boomer's cool. He's another big cat, but he gets the edge because he's got blue fur and I like the tuft of yellow on his head.


65. Howler — Arizona Coyotes (NHL)

Foto: Howler of the Arizona Coyotes. Source: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Finally, something other than a big cat. Howler is a Coyote, although he kind of looks like a bear. He does the job, and he does it well, but he's pretty underwhelming on the whole.


64. Spartacat — Ottowa Senators (NHL)

Foto: Spartacat of the Ottowa Senators. Source: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

Spartacat - the official mascot of the Ottowa Senators - is virtually indistinguishable from my reflection in the mirror anytime before 8 a.m., which renders him familiar yet somewhat jarring. As a result, I'm not really sure how to feel about him.


63. Blaze the Trail Cat — Portland Trail Blazers (NBA)

Foto: Blaze the Trail Cat of the Portland Trail Blazers. Source: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY

Blaze is kind of cute. He's also a little strange looking. I like his headband, though.


62. Miles — Denver Broncos (NFL)

Foto: Miles of the Denver Broncos. Source: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Named in honor of the Mile High City, Miles is, well, a Bronco. His smile is a little creepy, as are his orange eyes, but ultimately he represents Denver with valor.


61. The Raptor — Toronto Raptors (NBA)

Foto: The Raptor of the Toronto Raptors. Source: Gerry Angus-USA TODAY Sports

The Raptor is undoubtedly a solid mascot, and he's the center of an enduring Raptors brand. But aside from the dearth of dinosaur mascots in the majors - and his reigning champion status - he's pretty standard.


60. Who Dey — Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)

Foto: Who Dey of the Cincinnati Bengals. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Who Dey is a Bengal Tiger, and he's equal parts intimidating and cute. Extra points to Who Dey for beating the Saints to the punch with the "Who Dey" chant.


59. Screech — Washington Nationals (MLB)

Foto: Screech of the Washington Nationals. Source: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Nationals have a bald eagle as a mascot in Screech. He's something of a baby bird, from what I can tell, but he's a fitting mascot for the capital city's baseball team.


58. SlapShot — Washington Capitals (NHL)

Foto: SlapShot of the Washington Capitals. Source: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

Like Screech, SlapShot is also a bald eagle, and he is a true patriot. His favorite song is the U.S. National Anthem and his birthday is, coincidentally, the same day Congress officially adopted the Great Seal of the United States. His closest friends are Sam the Eagle, Big Bird, and Larry Bird, and I have nothing but respect for the consistency. SlapShot is cool with me.


57. Blade the Bruin — Boston Bruins

Foto: Blades of the Boston Bruins. Source: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

I had no idea a bruin was a bear until now. Well, that's what Blades is. He's a cross between cute and fierce and, lucky for him, represents one of the best NHL teams in recent history.


56. Staley Da Bear — Chicago Bears (NFL)

Foto: Staley Da Bear of the Chicago Bears. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Folks, we've got another bear. Staley Da Bear represents "da Bears," of course. He's named after the franchise's founder, A.E. Staley. I'll give him a pass for being a little mean-looking since I think that's the point.


55. Mr. Met — New York Mets (MLB)

Foto: Mr. Met of the New York Mets. Source: REUTERS/Jeff Zelevansky

I know he's iconic, but Mr. Met isn't a particularly creative mascot. After all, he is just an anthropomorphic baseball. Sorry to the borough of Queens.


54. Mr. Red — Cincinnati Reds (MLB)

Foto: Mr. Red of the Cincinnati Reds. Source: Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Same as Mr. Met. Still, Mr. Red has been around since 1953, so we have to give credit where credit is due and give him the edge.


53. SJ Sharkie — San Jose Sharks (NHL)

Foto: SJ Sharkie of the San Jose Sharks. Source: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

SJ Sharkie is, clearly, a true athlete, and I genuinely believe he'd tear most of these other mascots apart in a fight. In fact, he regularly (lovingly) bites fans heads at San Jose Sharks games. Beware.


52. Sir Purr — Carolina Panthers (NFL)

Foto: Sir Purr of the Carolina Panthers. Source: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

He's Purrfect. Sorry. Very cute though.


51. Hooper — Detroit Pistons (NBA)

Foto: Hooper of the Detroit Pistons. Source: AP Photo/Carlos Osorio

Hooper is a horse, which makes sense given that he represents the Detroit Pistons, but his large, round nose and two-toned mane give him a bit extra flare. 10/10 would pet.


50. Mariner Moose — Seattle Mariners (MLB)

Foto: Mariner Moose of the Seattle Mariners. Source: Joe Robbins/Getty Images

One could argue that the Seattle Mariners' mascot should be a sea creature, but I quite like the fuzzy and adorable Mariner Moose. He's true to the Pacific Northwest region, and anyone would get lost in those big, black eyes.


49. Blitz — Seattle Seahawks (NFL)

Foto: Blitz of the Seattle Seahawks. Source: Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Blitz has a good name and a solid appearance. He actually looks like a seahawk, and those green feathers give him a nice pop of color without compromising his intimidating persona. Plus, his name rules.


48. Gnash — Nashville Predators (NHL)

Foto: Gnash of the Nashville Predators. Source: AP Photo/Mark Humphrey

Gnash really ticks all the boxes: he's got a great name, a cute-yet-fierce appearance, and a backstory that reflects the history of Nashville. Plus, I like it when he rappels down to the ice. High marks for Gnash.


47. T-Rac — Tennessee Titans (NFL)

Foto: T-Rac of the Tennessee Titans. Source: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

T-Rac doesn't not look like he could fit in with the mascots that lurk around Times Square, which makes sense because he's a raccoon. I'm not sure what possessed the Titans to choose such a... unique... creature to represent the state of Tennessee, but I like the ambition.


46. Bernie Brewer — Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)

Foto: Bernie Brewer of the Milwaukee Brewers. Source: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

I'm typically not a fan of mascots that are meant to look like humans, but Bernie Brewer's mustache is surely worthy of an exception. His sweet digs - a dugout in the left-field bleachers - and his tradition of sliding down a slide into the outfield after each homerun push him fairly high up on my list. Plus, he was created to honor Milt Mason, a Brewers superfan who camped out atop the scoreboard at Milwaukee County Stadium for 40 days to help grow the attendance at the team's games.

For that reason, Roll Bernie.


45. Viktor Viking — Minnesota Vikings

Foto: Viktor of the Minnesota Vikings. Source: Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images

The stache don't lie. Viktor is another exception to my "no human mascots" rule, but I can't say no to the flow. Skol, Vikings!


44. Chuck the Condor — Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)

Foto: Chuck the Condor of the Los Angeles Clippers. Source: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Chuck the Condor is unique, smiley, and always rocks a cool outfit. Everyone hated him when he first came on the scene in 2016, but he's really grown on me. Plus, I like that Chuck wears Chuck Taylors.


43. Hunter the Lynx — Edmonton Oilers (NHL)

Foto: Hunter the Lynx of the Edmonton Oilers. Source: Brandon Magnus/NHLI via Getty Images

When it comes to big cat mascots - and, trust me, there are many - a lynx is about as unique as it gets. Hunter has a good name and a solid backstory. Best of all, the people of Edmonton voted for the Oilers' mascot to be a lynx, so he's a big cat of the people.


42. Sluggerrr — Kansas City Royals (MLB)

Foto: Sluggerrr of the Kansas City Royals. Source: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Sluggerrr is the ever-regal mascot representing the Kansas City Royals. He's a lion with a crown embedded into his skull, which is admittedly a bit weird, but it's good that he knows his worth. Extra points for listing his marital status as "on the prowl" in his official MLB bio.


41. Crunch — Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)

Foto: Crunch of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Source: REUTERS/Eric Miller

He's strong. He's fierce. He represents the team and the region. He is Crunch, the mascot for the Minnesota Timberwolves, and he's pretty much all you can ask for in a mascot.


40. Billy Buffalo — Buffalo Bills (NFL)

Foto: Billy Buffalo of the Buffalo Bills. Source: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Billy Buffalo of the Buffalo Bills. Hilarious. He looks like a bear with horns. Also hilarious. He's not at all intimidating and actually quite cute.


39. Ace — Toronto Blue Jays

Foto: Ace of the Toronto Blue Jays. Source: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

A Toronto High School student came up with the name for Ace, the Blue Jays' sapphire-feathered mascot who perfectly represents the team.


38. Clark — Chicago Cubs (MLB)

Foto: Clark of the Chicago Cubs. Source: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Fun, athletic, lively, and jovial, Clark is everything a baseball mascot should be.


37. Stanley C. Panther — Florida Panthers (NHL)

Foto: Stanley C. Panther of the Florida Panthers. Source: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Frankly, I was a bit confused about why a fuzzy jungle cat was the mascot for a Florida-based team, but after a bit of research, I learned the heartbreaking story of Stanley C. Panther. Panthers used to be common throughout the Southeast, but "fewer than 100" remain in the wild of southern Florida today, according to the National Park Service. I can only assume Stanley C. Panther endures the frigid temperature and high volume inside the BB&T Center to combat the much icier sensation of loneliness he feels internally. Pity points for Stan.


36. Stormy — Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)

Foto: Stormy of the Carolina Hurricanes. Source: Jaylynn Nash/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Pity points for Stormy, too. The Carolina Hurricanes chose a pig (yes, that's a pig) as their mascot because the state of North Carolina is known for its (admittedly delicious) pork barbeque.


35. Fredbird — St. Louis Cardinals (MLB)

Foto: Fredbird of the St. Louis Cardinals. Source: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Fredbird has been tasked with pumping up St. Louis Cardinals fans since way back in the 1970s, and somehow, he's still at it. Since then, the team has won three World Series. Not bad, bird.


34. Big Red — Arizona Cardinals (NFL)

Foto: Big Red of the Arizona Cardinals. Source: REUTERS/Darryl Webb

Well, he's more intimidating than Fredbird.


33. Louie — St. Louis Blues (NHL)

Foto: Louie of the St. Louis Blues. Source: Billy Hurst-USA TODAY Sports

He's a cute and cuddly bear who wears a helmet! He's adorable! He's unique because he's blue! And, best of all, he's not a walking music note! Louie gets the stamp of approval from me.


32. Bango — Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)

Foto: Bango of the Milwaukee Bucks. Source: AP Photo/Morry Gash

Bango is adorable, likable, and pure. He's a perfect representation of the Bucks franchise, and I imagine he and Giannis Antetokounmpo get along splendidly.


31. Carlton the Bear — Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL)

Foto: Carlton the Bear of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Source: REUTERS/Mark Blinch

It doesn't make much sense that the Toronto Maple Leafs would opt for a polar bear as their mascot, but I'm certainly not objecting to Carlton the Bear. He's cute and has a fantastic name, so as far as I'm concerned, he can hang around the rink as much as he would like.


30. Stomper — Oakland A's (MLB)

Foto: Stomper of the Oakland A's. Source: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports

It's unclear why Oakland's mascot is an elephant, but Stomper has a very sweet face and a penchant for celebrating sweeps by waving a broom around the field.


29. Benny the Bull — Chicago Bulls (NBA)

Foto: Benny the Bull of the Chicago Bulls. Source: REUTERS/Jeff Haynes

Benny the Bull is a classic. He was the first mascot in the NBA after making his debut in 1969 and has been around the franchise, dunking on the court and interacting with fans, ever since. It's hard not to give high marks to an enduring legend like Benny.


28. TD — Miami Dolphins (NFL)

Foto: TD of the Miami Dolphins. Source: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Look at this guy! He doesn't even have hands, but I'd trust him to haul in the game-winning snag with those slick flippers. Hell, it's in his name. Roll TD.


27. Wally the Green Monster — Boston Red Sox (MLB)

Foto: Wally the Green Monster of the Boston Red Sox. Source: Rich Gagnon/Getty Images

Named after the legendary, 231-foot wall in left field at Fenway Park, Wally the Green Monster is the iconic mascot for the Boston Red Sox. He is said to have spent years living behind the old-fashioned scoreboard displayed on the Green Monster before emerging from his home and becoming an emblem for the franchise. Though his appearance doesn't feature all the bells and whistles that many of his mascot counterparts boast, his legacy is among the most iconic in all of baseball.


26. Moondog — Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)

Foto: Moondog of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Source: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Moondog may not have anything to do with the Cavaliers - he doesn't appear to resemble a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - but he's undoubtedly cute. Look at the way his ears flop when he dunks! Who's a good boy?!


25. The Pirate Parrot — Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB)

Foto: The Pirate Parrot of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Source: Joe Robbins/Getty Images

If dogs are man's best friend, then parrots are certainly pirates'. The Pirate Parrot of the Pittsburgh Pirates is the perfect complement to the Steel City's squad.


24. Gumbo — New Orleans Saints (NFL)

Foto: Gumbo of the New Orleans Saints. Source: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Good boy. Great name. Roll Saints.


23. Champ — Dallas Mavericks (NBA)

Foto: Champ of the Dallas Mavericks. Source: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Let's all agree to never acknowledge MavsMan's existence, okay?

Now that that's settled, may I draw your attention to Champ, the one true mascot of the Dallas Mavericks. I think he's hilarious, and I don't know why. Maybe it's his wild mane or his exasperated expression. Either way, he brings me joy, and that's all we can ask for in a mascot.


22. Southpaw — Chicago White Sox (MLB)

Foto: Southpaw of the Chicago White Sox. Source: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports

Southpaw is a "big fuzzy green dude that loves the Chicago White Sox," according to his MLB bio. Like his squad, Southpaw is a man of the South Side of Chicago, and he derives his name from the area as well as the fact that he's a lefty. He's cute and has a creative backstory. What more can White Sox fans possibly want?


21. Rumble the Bison — Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA)

Foto: Rumble the Bison of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Source: REUTERS/Bill Waugh

If you squint a little, Rumble really looks like a bison. Yet the Oklahoma City Thunder mascot isn't scary or offputting. Albeit a little hairy, Rumble represents a bison from a long-told Native American tale who was given superpowers from the god of Thunder after helping his friends escape a storm. He roamed the hills of Oklahoma alone, the tale goes until a group of men "who carried similar powers" arrived in Oklahoma City in 2009. I'm giving him high marks for having such a heartwarming backstory.


20. Billy the Marlin — Miami Marlins (MLB)

Foto: Billy the Marlin of the Miami Marlins. Source: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Billy is adorable. He makes perfect sense. He's unique. He's doing his best on land. High marks for Billy.


19. Sparky the Dragon — New York Islanders (NHL)

Foto: Sparky the Dragon of the New York Islanders. Source: Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

I don't fully understand how a dragon washed up on the shores of Long Island, but somehow, Sparky is making it work.


18. Victor E. Green — Dallas Stars (NHL)

Foto: Victor E. Green of the Dallas Stars. Source: AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth

This guy rocks. He's fuzzy, he's a man of the people, and he's extremely passionate about his Dallas Stars. In fact, he can often be spotted in the background of professional photos reacting emphatically to what's happening on the ice. Sure, no one knows what he is or where he came from (aside from "galaxy far, far away," per the Stars' website), but that's part of his allure.


17. Youppi! — Montreal Canadiens (NHL)

Foto: Youppi! of the Montreal Canadiens (NHL). Source: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports

Youppi! rocks. His name means "Yippee!" in French and he literally wears an exclamation point on his back instead of a number. We love the enthusiasm. Youppi!'s roots are in baseball, but he transferred his allegiances to the Canadiens after the Montreal Expos moved to Washington D.C. in 2004. I have no idea what he is, but I know for certain that he is mon amour.


16. Lou Seal — San Francisco Giants (MLB)

Foto: Lou Seal of the San Francisco Giants. Source: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports

He's cute and one-of-a-kind and his glasses are adorable. But best of all, his name reminds me of the iconic bit from "Arrested Development."


15. Hugo the Hornet — Charlotte Hornets (NBA)

Foto: Hugo the Hornet of the Charlotte Hornets. Source: AP Photo/Bob Leverone

I like Hugo. I like his name, I like his color scheme, I like his simple face, and I like his disposition. I don't really have any good reason for ranking him this high, but here he is. Deal with it.


14. Sabretooth — Buffalo Sabres (NHL)

Foto: Sabretooth of the Buffalo Sabres. Source: Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images

No braces, no problem. Sabretooth - the orange-furred mascot of the Buffalo Sabres - has a goofy look to him, but as an anthropomorphic saber-toothed tiger, he perfectly represents his team and the icy-cold winters of Buffalo, New York.


13. Slider — Cleveland Indians (MLB)

Foto: Slider of the Cleveland Indians. Source: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

It's unclear what Slider is, but this pink-furred, yellow-nosed delight is all the rage in Cleveland. He normally keeps out of trouble, but he took a legendary tumble out of the stands during the 1995 ALCS and tore both his MCL and ACL. Mascotting is no joke, folks.


12. G-Wiz — Washington Wizards (NBA)

Foto: G-Wiz of the Washington Wizards. Source: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

I just want to boop his nose and give him a hug. Is that so much to ask?


11. ThunderBug — Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)

Foto: ThunderBug of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Source: AP Photo/Chris O'Meara

He's unique, he's fuzzy, and he's got eyes that stare straight into your soul. One time he gave the forecast for a local news channel. ThunderBug boasts that his favorite movie is "A Bug's Life" and that his favorite band is The Beatles, so his brand is extremely strong and also extremely adorable. I love him.


10. Raymond — Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)

Foto: Raymond of the Tampa Bay Rays. Source: Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Somehow, Raymond is nothing and everything all in one. According to Tampa Bay folklore, the fuzzy creature climbed out of the Gulf of Mexico and into Rays fans' hearts back in 1998. Even though that means he's 22 years old, Raymond doesn't look a day younger than 75. I think he's hilarious, and the name Raymond is *chefs kiss*.


9. Burnie — Miami Heat (NBA)

Foto: Burnie of the Miami Heat. Source: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Once again, I have absolutely no idea what Burnie is, but I do know that he's wonderful. He genuinely rocks the famous Miami Vice jerseys better than anyone. My only complaint about Burnie is his lack of a mouth. Oh, and, given his name, his silence in the realm of politics is deafening.


8. Dinger — Colorado Rockies (MLB)

Foto: Dinger of the Colorado Rockies. Source: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Dinger rules, no questions asked. He's a purple Triceratops inspired by a 7-foot-long, 1,000-pound Triceratops fossil recovered at Coors Field while the stadium was being built. There aren't many other major-league dinos in circulation, which is cool. Plus the name Dinger - slang for a home run - is perfect for a mascot living in the Mile High City, where the altitude helps baseballs soar further than parks that are closer to sea level.


7. Iceburgh — Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL)

Foto: Iceburgh of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Source: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Look at this guy! What a goof! He's a silly-looking penguin with an extremely punny name and a darling disposition. He's even a movie star; he was in "Sudden Death" with Jean Claude Van Damme back in 1995.


6. Blue — Indianapolis Colts (NFL)

Foto: Blue of the Indianapolis Colts. Source: Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Blue is a colt, apparently, but in reality, he looks like a goofy, fuzzy dude. He's got quite a jovial spirit and a penchant for changing color when the team is celebrating a special occasion, like pink for breast cancer awareness or army green and camo for military appreciation. Top marks for Blue.


5. Blooper — Atlanta Braves (MLB)

Foto: Blooper of the Atlanta Braves. Source: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Everything about Blooper is perfect. His name encapsulates exactly what a mascot should be. His ears, nose, eyes, and tuft of red hair poking out from under his cap are all flawlessly goofy. Plus, when he (or someone else) boops his nose, his ears pop out like a real-life cartoon. I love him.


4. Jaxson de Ville — Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)

Foto: Jaxson de Ville of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Source: David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Are you kidding me?! This is the coolest cat I've ever seen. The sun never sets on a bada--, unless, of course, he represents a rather pitiful team like the Jacksonville Jaguars.


3. Stuff the Magic Dragon — Orlando Magic (NBA)

Foto: Stuff the Magic Dragon of the Orlando Magic. Source: AP Photo/David Zalubowski

Stuff the Magic Dragon undoubtedly ranks among the mascot elite. His name is a hilarious play on the song "Puff the Magic Dragon" and the act of blocking - or stuffing - a shot in basketball. He is adorable, fantastical, and exciting. He is everything a mascot should be and more, and I would give him a kidney if he needed one.


2. Phillie Phanatic — Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)

Foto: The Phillie Phanatic of the Philadelphia Phillies. Source: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

I don't know what type of creature the Phillie Phanatic was meant to be at his inception (birth?), but I know he has become an absolute legend. The Phanatic may be the most recognizable mascot in all of sports, and there's no question that he's one of the most loveable. There must be something in the "wooder" over in the City of Brotherly Love because their mascots are the best in the business.


1. Gritty — Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)

Foto: Gritty of the Philadelphia Flyers. Source: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

This was never a fair fight, and we all knew it. What is Gritty, you ask? Gritty is an orange-furred, googly-eyed, hot dog-loving ice monster who emerged from the depths of Philadelphia's Wells Fargo Center and captured the hearts of, well, everyone. A bona fide celebrity, a non-binary, leftist icon, a hilarious clutz, and, frankly, the best among us, Gritty defied the odds to become the most beloved mascot on the planet since he hit the scene in 2018. We have no choice but to stan.


Now check out which pets your favorite athletes have at home:

Foto: Tom Brady and his dog, Lua. Source: Stickman/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Top athletes and their furry friends: the 62 best pets in the world of sports