Tools of ignorance

From BR Bullpen

The tools of ignorance is a nickname for a catcher's protective equipment: catchers mask, chest protector, and shin guards. Different sources have credited Muddy Ruel and Bill Dickey with coining the phrase. According to either version, the usage was meant to be ironic, contrasting the inteligence needed by a catcher to handle the duties of the position with the foolishness needed to play a position hazardous enough to require so much protective equipment.