Debuting with the Cubs when they were still called the “Chicago Orphans”, Frank Chance was the team’s “Peerless Leader”, managing the club through two World Championships and four pennants. Of course, Chance’s greatest fame comes from his position as the final component of baseball’s best-known double play combination: “Tinkers-to-Evers-to-Chance”.

     From 1902 to 1912, the three men held down the infield on a team that won four pennants in five years - baseball’s earliest “dynasty”. After a short stint with Yankees in 1913-14, Chance moved out west for his health and managed in the Los Angeles Angels before being named president of the California Winter league. Chance was coaxed back to the big leagues in 1923 to manage the Red Sox, then hired by the White Sox the following year, but before the 1924 season began, Chase was stricken with influenza and he passed away in September.

     This incredible dead-ball era gamer was used by Frank Chase during the latter half of his player-manager career. The Spalding bat is 35 inches in length and weighs in at a sturdy 45.2 ounces. The barrel has “Frank L. Chance” facsimile signature between “SPALDING” and “AUTOGRAPH” stamping. The bat is un-cracked and displays heavy use. The barrel is covered with ball marks and abrasions and there is some checking present from repeated ball contact. Cleat imprints are in evidenced the barrel and knob ends show scuffs and abrasions from contact with the ground. The handle knob has several chips and there are a few small, light areas on the bat from what may be paint drips. The bat has aged to a deep, very dark brown, which only enhances its vintage visual appeal. About as perfect a dead-ball era gamer as you could ask for. That it is was used by the man who comprised one-third of the most legendary double-play combo in baseball history, makes it all the more extraordinary. One of the rarest hall of fame bats to obtain. The bat comes with a full LOA from PSA/DNA (1B12661) for the game use.

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