This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/5/2017
Pioneered by the great Ty Cobb, the cork (Kork) gripped bat was introduced by the Georgia Peach to major league baseball during the 1914 season. It only makes sense that contemporary Napoleon Lajoie would adapt the bat which catapulted Cobb to greatness. Lajoie was still sensitive to the fact Cobb narrowly beat him, .3850687 (Cobb) to Lajoie’s 3840947 during the 1910 American League Batting race.
Bat measures 34” and weights 39 ounces, both acceptable for Lajoie bats during the era. Bat is pounded with game use, cleat marks, and ball marks.
Unique Kork Grip Patent Pending handle stamping: On the area to the left of the centerbrand directly above the Kork Gripping, is the phrase, “KORK GRIP, Patened, Sep. 15, 1914.”.
Final Grade (MEARS A6): a base grade of 5 points was assigned due to the bat being consistent with respect to model, length and weight which would have been used by Lajoie during the era. Minus two points for missing cork on handle & discoloration and deadwood on barrel end.
Rare example of a 40K model Lajoie bat.
08J0110