Babe Ruth 100th Anniversary Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2014
By 1952 there was no mistaking that Jackie Robinson was in the midst of a Hall of Fame-bound career. By the All-Star break he was well on his way to hitting .302 and leading the National League in on base percentage. His selection by fans of all colors to the fourth consecutive All-Star Game was proof that he was truly recognized as one of the game’s premier players. Robinson started off that year's All-Star Game with a bang when he sent a Vic Raschi pitch into Shibe Park's left field stands for the National League's first run. On the field he turned the game's only double play as the NL won 3-2. It was a game to be proud of and surely every time Robinson swung this 1952 All-Star Game bat he thought of that day in Philly.
Hillerich & Bradsby supplied each All-Star player with 2 of their model bats stamped with "ALL-STAR GAME PHILADELPHIA 1952". Robinson's Hillerich & Bradsby S100 shows light to moderate game use. A few ball marks can be seen on the right and left barrel along with slight checking (grain swelling) from ball contact. The bat originates from the Robinson family and displays the same halo effect on the barrel that the 1949 All Star bat displayed in his home displayed, indicating they were displayed together in a similar matter. With multiple ball marks appearing on the bat, the fact that this bat was brought home by Robinson after after the game and proudly displayed in his home, and the fact it remains uncracked, it is highly likely (and logical ) to assume that Robinson was proudly displaying his All Star Home Run bat in his home for all those years; this being that very bat. Robinson received only 3 at bats in that rain shortened game, and this bats shows perfect use for all three at bats (the others were a pop out and a strike out).
Model number S100 is stamped into the bat's knob end and its length of 34.5 and weight 35.1oz matches Robinson's specifications. Authenticated Jackie Robinson game used bats are extremely rare and highly desirable, and this one, delivered specifically for his use in the one game that showcases the best of the best, really sets it apart. Letter of Authenticity 1B07656 from PSA/DNA who have examined this bat and graded it a GU 8.