This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/4/2012
As a young rookie, Mel Ott was supporter of Spalding bats. This is the second Spalding professional model bat to enter the hobby. This is the first with the intial, "MO" on the barrel. The previous example simply read "OTT" on the barrel end.
The reason for the coded "MO" may be pressure from the increasingly litigious Louisville Slugger Company. The initials only may have been an attempt to provide Ott with game used bats without infringing on the patented autograph branding on H&B bats.
This bat measures 34 1/2" and weighs 35 ounces, acceptable for Ott bats. The initial EK are carved on the reverse of the bat.
Grade MEARS A7: 5 base points for bat meeting Ott professional model dimensions, 3 points for use, minus 1/2 for repaired handle, minus 1/2 for carving on reverse.
Y0601