October Legends
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/2/2013
Though not a household name today, in 1941 Hoot Evers was the hottest prospect in the minors. Coming out of the University of Illinois, Evers was snatched up by the Tigers and played exactly one major league game before he enlisted in the Army Air Force. After the war, Evers rejoined Detroit where his talents were the talk of the league. Veteran outfielder Doc Cramer said “He had all the fundamentals—the build, a good head, speed, and an arm, with good eyes at the plate.” Great things were expected from Evers but fate had other plans. Injuries compounded and though he had some .300 seasons in the late ‘40’s, he never played up to his potential. This Hillerich & Bradsby dates from the 1939-1943 period, which when compared to Evers’ playing history means it dates from his college season in 1940, his minor league season in 1941, his war-shortened 1941 season with the Tigers or his short 1942 minor league season. The bat shows excellent use and has a cracked handle. Adhesive tape is wound around the handle. Ball and stitch marks can be seen on the barrel along with bat rack paint streaks. Checking from repeated ball contact is visible on the back barrel. The bat has “EVERS” in block letters on the barrel. PSA/DNA sticker number 1B05752 is affixed to the barrel end. Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA who have given this bat a grade of GU 8.