Baseball with improved core and enhanced durability

A baseball capable of being tested under ASTM Standard Test Method F1888-09 for compression-displacement and under ASTM Standard Test Method F1887-09 wherein the baseball is projected at a strike plate at a speed of approximately 60 mph to measure the coefficient of restitution (COR) of the baseball, the baseball comprising:

• a core formed of a diene-based rubber composition, the core having a diameter of less than 2.0 inches and a weight less than 1.5 ounces;
• at least one layer of yarn surrounding the core;
• and
• a cover assembly surrounding the at least one layer of yarn, the baseball having a circumference within the range of 8.85 inches to 9.5 inches and a weight of less than 5.5 ounces, the baseball having an initial compression value obtained in accordance with ASTM Standard Test Method F1888-09 and a second compression value obtained in accordance with ASTM Standard Test Method F1888-09 after the baseball has undergone at least 60 impacts of approximately 60 mph against the strike plate, the second compression value being greater than 75 percent of the initial compression value, the initial compression of the baseball being at least 200 lbs.