This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/29/2012
When signing his endorsement contract with H&B during 1977, Molitor was a Louisville Slugger loyalist for over a decade. During 1989, with the commotion created by Ken Griffey Jr., Rickey Henderson, Jose Canseco, and Bo Jackson, Paul Molitor followed his peers and switched to the Cooper brand bat. It is interesting to note that a review of H&B factory records support this change. Prior to 1989, Molitor routinely ordered 3 to 4 models of multiple bats. After, he dropped to only three more models of very limited quantities in 1990 & 1991. H&B was a distant memory to the Ignitor and Cooper would be the preferred brand that Molitor finished out his career using.
The first Cooper model bats used by Molitor were blonde in color (1989). In 1990, Molitor switched to a black finish, exactly like this offered example. Although he switched brands, Molitor did not want to tinker with the model, and Cooper supplied Molly with the same H176 model he had always been using.
Measuring 34” and weighing 32 ounces, the bat perfectly matches known Molitor specifications for the era. Both are factory stamped on the knob. Molitor’s uniform number “4” is applied to the knob in worn marker and is consistent with examined examples, verifying use by Molitor.
Remaining uncracked, the bat exhibits very heavy indications of game use. The handle is covered with an even, heavy application of pine tar. In the area above and directly behind the facsimile barrel signature are dozens of heavy ball marks, deep stitch marks and evidence of deadwood, the repeated contact of bat to ball. In the same area are 7 blue American League transfer marks. Molitor has signed the bat in silver marker.
Grade MEARS A10: Base grade of 5 points is assigned for bat matching model, length and weight. 3 points for heavy game use. 2 points for bat containing documented player use traits including documented uniform number on knob.
A perfect Molitor gamer.