This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2011
Offered is a signature model K55, 34 5/8”-33.2 oz bat with light game use mainly above the barrel stamps, deep markings and a perfect finish. It has his uniform number, 9, in black marker on the knob as well. Earl wore number 9 with the Braves in 1947 through 1957 with the Tigers. In addition, he was on both the 1959 White Sox pennant winning team as well as a member of the famed 1961 Yankees. Orders for this bat are found from 4-24-56 through 1958. Clifford Earl Torgeson (born January 1, 1924 Snohomish, Washington - died November 8, 1990 Everett, Washington) was a left-handed hitting and throwing first baseman in Major League Baseball. He had a 15-year career (1947-1961), playing for the Boston Braves (1947-1952) and Philadelphia Phillies (1953-1955), both of the National League, and the Detroit Tigers (1956-1957), Chicago White Sox (1957-1961) and New York Yankees (1961) of the American League. He was known by his middle name, Earl, and his nickname was the “The Earl of Snohomish,” a nickname originally owned by Hall of Famer Earl Averill, also of Snohomish, Washington. Earl was a regular player for 9 years, and he would have been a regular in 1949 if not for an injury. Then he played another 5 years as a role player, in particular being a rugged batter to bring in off the bench. As a pinchitter, as per earlier in his career, his batting eye was key to his value. Even when his hits were few, he still got on base. In 1961, for example, playing out the string for the New York Yankees, he hit only .111 in 18 at-bats, but drew 8 walks for a .385 .OBP. Graded a MEARS A7.