The late 1960’s saw “Mr Cub” - Ernie Banks - wrapping up his Hall of Fame career in style. Banks hit 23 home runs in 1967, getting him right to the doorstep of the exclusive 500 Career Home Run Club. These were Banks’ last great years as a full-time player, and Cubs skipper Leo Durocher tapped him to be a part-time coach, letting the future Hall of Famer inspire a new generation of ballplayers. Banks was also selected for his 10th All-Star Game in 1967, the penultimate selection of his legendary career.

This offered Hillerich & Bradsby S2 model bat was used by Banks during the 1967 All-Star Game played at Anaheim Stadium in California. Banks made his present felt right away, when he singled in his only plate appearance in the top of the 10th inning after pinch-hitting for catcher Joe Torre in the sixth slot of the NL lineup. As would be expected with limited game time, this bat displays light game use and is un-cracked. There are a few ball marks and stitch impressions that are visible on the front and right barrel. There are general handling marks on this bat in the form of scuffing and abrasions marks and there are blue bat rack streaks and a light coating of pine tar are on the handle. The bat’s model number “S2” has been stamped on the knob. “1967 – ANAHEIM” is stamped on the barrel and Banks signed his name next to that stamping in black marker and inscribed “Mr. Cub”.

This bat comes with a LOA from PSA/DNA (I02686) for the game use and has been given a very high grade of GU 9. PSA/DNA notes in their LOA in regards to the grading of this bat “This bat is typical of most of the All Star Game bats we have seen. Light use is the norm rather than the exception. Therefore, grading criteria for this special event bat is not dependent on the amount of use present. All Star Game bats are graded based on the amount of use one may expect from the number of plate appearances by the player during the All Star Game.” This bat also comes with a LOA from JSA for Banks’ signature.

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