This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/3/2019
Centerbrand (1920-30): Examination of the centerbrand reveals this bat was manufactured during the 1921-1930 era.
Length: For the label period (1920-1930), H&B factory records show bats ordered for Ruth in non-specified lengths with weight listed only, non-specified length with no mention of weight (8/9/23), 34.5 inch, 35 inch, 35.25 inch, 35.5 inch, & 36 lengths. This examined bat measures at 34 inches and is not supported by H&B factory listed lengths of 34.5” to 36” bats as being ordered by Ruth during the 1922-31 era. This bat may have been consistent with the N/S (length not specified) factory record, as H&B recorded the single entry on 8/9/23 with no mention of either length or weight. PSA dates the bat to 19 22-1925.
Weight 33.7 ounces: Available H&B records lists Ruth as ordering bats weighing from 36-52 ounces during the 1920s. With taking known weight loss into effect, this bat is within the tolerance of bats ordered by Ruth during the era.
Game Use: Both PSA and MEARS evaluates the use as “evidence of heavy use”. Handle has been cracked and professionally repaired. “Slight checking (grain swelling) on the back of the barrel from repeated ball contact. Many ball marks are visible on all sides of the barrel. Several cuts and abrasions are also visible on all sides of the barrel. Several dimple impressions, cause unknown, are on the front and left barrel. Several abrasions can be seen on the left, right, and back barrel. MEARS accessed the degree of use as heavy, and finds nothing about it to support Taube’s opinion of “Use cannot be confirmed”.
Conclusion: Per the Taube PSA letter, he states, “After a thorough examination of the George “Babe’ Ruth pro stock model bat and its player use characteristics, it is our opinion the bat is authentic as described. Use by Ruth cannot be confirmed.
MEARS graded this bat an A7. 5 base points assigned for bat being consistent with model and acceptable weight for Ruth bats ordered during the 1920s. The 34” is shorter than known documented examples, but a complete record of lengths for Ruth during the 1920s has not be complied, and many ordered were simply listed as “n/s”, not specified. 2 points for moderate game wear for a final grade of MEARS A7.
(31G0264)