The "Bowling Green Bootleggers" identity first debuted in 2016 as a "What Could Have Been" tribute to the rich heritage of South Central Kentucky. Originally a runner-up in the team’s inaugural naming contest in 2008, the branding was brought to life to celebrate the historical connection between the "Hot Rod" and the state’s bourbon industry.
Decades ago, modified hot rods were the vehicle of choice for bootleggers who needed enough speed to outrun law enforcement while transporting moonshine through the Kentucky hills. This rich bourbon heritage has since become synonymous with Kentucky, with over 35 distilleries present throughout the state. To honor this local lore, the branding features a distinctive "bourbon barrel" aesthetic, highlighted by a primary logo of a bearded, jovial bootlegger riding inside a barrel.
Due to the overwhelming demand, the Hot Rods have committed to making "Bootleggers Night" an annual tradition. Since it debuted in 2016, the 2026 season marks exactly a decade since the Bootleggers first took the field.
With a full 10 seasons of the Bootleggers in the book, there is a new look coming to Bowling Green Ballpark in 2026. The bearded bootlegger has returned to the logo, riding his flaming barrel under the wordmark. This is accompanied by a special edition 10th anniversary logo, displaying a custom barrel head for the occasion. Another alternate logo, a flaming alligator coming out of a bourbon barrel is placed on the left sleeve. This, paired with the black base and graphite pinstripes of the jersey, have been used to mimic the look of a “gator char” on the inside of a bourbon barrel, honoring the tradition of putting barrels through a 55-second charring process, creating a cracked and shiny look that shows comparisons to alligator skin.
