This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/30/2012
Starting in 1933, baseball elected the best of the best to play in the annual All Star game. Competing bat manufactures Louisville Slugger and Adirondack rewarded player participation by producing specially branded All Star bats. By 1960, Mazeroski had emerged as a bonafided National League Star, and was elected to his 3rd straight All Star game. For his participation, he was issued this exact bat for use in the midsummer classic. Two All Star games were played in 1960, and Mazeroski participated in both. Details are as follows:
Starting Game 1, July 11, 1960, Municipal Stadium: Contributing to a 5-3 National League triumph in the opener of the All-Star "twin bill" that year, Mazeroski singled off Baltimore's Chuck Estrada which scored two.
Game 2, July 13, 1960, Yankee Stadium: In the "nightcap" (two days later), the Pirate infielder went 0-for-2 with a pop foul and a groundout to shortstop.
The bat exhibits heavy use when judged by All Star game standards. In the area above the barrel stamping, there are 14 ball marks, and trailed by deep visible stitch marks. Since the game was played in an American League city, blue Reach ball marks are present.
In the area of the revere barrel, approximately 14 more ball, stitch, and blue Reach marks are visible. No less than 4 bat rack marks can be seen on the handle. Documentation of exclusive All Star game use could not be verified but the fact Maz used it cannot be denied. These bats were thought of as trophies, and the choice of using them in the actual event was a matter of personal preference.
The manufacturer’s traits are consistent with the introduction of the 1960 style transition center brand. Details of note include the 1958-60 style of the block letter “ADIRONDACK”, lines found around the center brand, WHIP ACTION is found alone with “Flexible” removed. The lettering is white, which became standardized in 1961.
Length: Bat measures 35” and is consistent with Mazeroski’s ordering patterns.
Weight: Bat currently weighs 32.5 ounces and is consistent with Mazeroski’s ordering patterns.
Wood: High grade professional grade ash with a flame tempered finish.
Signed by Mazeroski at a later date, the barrel is home to a blue Sharpie inscription that reads: "1960 W.S. Game Winning Homer - Bill Mazeroski."
Final Grade MEARS A10: Based on All Star Game issuance and factory markings, acceptable length and weight for Maz models, and visible game use, this bat received the highest grade awarded by MEARS, A10. Also, the winning bidder will receive a framed photo of Maz crossing homeplate during the All Star Game. LOA Troy R. Kinunen / MEARS
A0390