This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/30/2012
Advanced bat collectors will appreciate the link between this store model bat and use in the professional leagues.
Born on October 11, 1878 in Chicago, IL, Frank Roth excelled in sports and became a professional baseball player. Mainly a catcher, Frank Roth did play some infield during his major league career which dated from 1903-10. He bounced along the big leagues, playing with the Phillies, Browns, White Sox, and Reds. In between, he played for the Milwaukee Brewers AAA team at Borchert Field during the 1906-08 seasons.
This bat was uncovered in Milwaukee, WI as a recent MEARS Auction consignment. It is safe to assume the bat was used during Frank Roth’s career with the Brewers. The provenance comes in the form of his leather bat case, which was engraved, “Frank Roth”. The leather is severely deteriorating, but the brass name plate with his name remains intact and in excellent condition.
Since great care was taken to protect this bat, it may have been used during Roth’s stint in the major leagues.
The bat itself is a standard Wright & Ditson Napoleon Lajoie Double Knob bat. Thick handled as was Lajoie’s style, this bat measures 34" and weighs 43 ounces. On one surface in excellent black screening is “Patent Applied For, Wright & Ditson, Boston”. On the reverse side “LAJOIE” is deeply factory stamped.
Bat remains uncracked and in excellent condition, despite its probably major league use. A very unique Lajoie bat with true provenance. The original bat bag with Frank Roth's name is included. LOA Troy R. Kinunen / MEARS
(A0559)