This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/31/2011
Offered for auction in this lot is an autographed Alex Rodriguez Louisville Slugger professional model game bat from early in his career with the Seattle Mariners. This black Louisville Slugger has model number C271 imprinted on its signature model cupped barrel. A-Rod has also signed the barrel in silver sharpie and added the inscription "HR Post Season 97." While images from the 1997 postseason verify Alex Rodriguez using black Louisville Slugger bats MEARS is without independent means to verify Alex Rodriguez’s HR post season inscription.
Bat exhibits heavy game use. From the knob extending 23” upwards past the right edge of the centerbrand is an application of pinetar. In an area about 6” near the centerbrand is a concentration of heavy pinetar. The entire 360 degree area of the barrel is covered with multiple ball marks, stitch marks, and deeply embedded stitch marks. Cleat marks are also found in the area, and several have penetrated the black finish of the bat. Handle remains uncracked.
Bat receives 5 points for matching factory records, 3 points for heavy use and 2 points for player traits/HR inscription resulting in a final grade of MEARS A10.
(M0172)
LOA Troy Kinunen / MEARS
(MEARS LOA; JSA Auction Letter)