October Legends Closing October 29
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2016
No player has a more mythical and saintly quality about him than Roberto Clemente. As the first Puerto Rican-born superstar, Clemente became the idol of millions of Hispanics, and baseball fans in general admired the drive and determination he displayed in every game he played. Teammates couldn’t help but be inspired by his example and his charity work in Latin America during the off season made him a hero among the impoverished and disadvantaged.
The world lost a truly great and kind soul when he was killed in a plane crash delivering relief supplies to Nicaragua on New year’s Eve, 1972. Clemente’s legacy didn’t end there - the Hall of Fame waved their waiting period and immediately voted the Puerto Rican superstar a plaque to join the other greats of the game. For all his fame, popularity, and more than 18 years in the Majors, Clemente game used items are surprisingly hard to come by.
This Hillerich & Bradsby U1 model bat was ordered by and manufactured for the great one in the years just prior to his tragic death. From the style of center brand it can be determined that this bat dates from the 1970-72 period, which includes the unforgettable 1971 World Championship season and 1972, his final year and the one during which he recorded his 3,000th hit. PSA/DNA has determined that while this bat was manufactured for Clemente’s use, they cannot confirm game use by him. In their words: “We can identify this bat as being an authentic Roberto Clemente bat, ordered by him during the reference labeling period. However condition of the bat today does not allow us to confirm game use by Roberto Clemente. It is clear that since the bat was originally acquired, it has seen additional use.”
Measuring 36” long and weighting 36.7oz, the U1 model bat shows outstanding use. The backside of the handle has been cracked and repaired with small nails. This repair is not visible when displayed with the centerboard and facsimile signature side showing. There is the residue of adhesive tape on the upper handle and there are many bat rack paint streaks visible. The barrel shows many ball marks and scuffs on all sides along with cleat imprints. This is a great bat from a man whose impact truly transcends the game of baseball and continues to inspire millions around the world. This bat comes with a letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA (1B10360).