This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2021
Mark McGwire was named American League Rookie of the Year in 1987 after a spectacular debut season for the Oakland A’s that included setting the then-MLB rookie record of 49 home runs. As his career progressed, it became clear that McGwire was destined to become one of baseball's all-time great power hitters. All doubts were laid to rest when he shattered Roger Maris' single-season home run record in 1998, hitting an unbelievable 70 round-trippers for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Presented here is Big Mac's game used bat from his fairy-tale '98 campaign when he and Slammin' Sammy Sosa captivated the baseball world with a home run chase nearly as thrilling as Maris vs. Mantle 37 years earlier. The 34.5" Rawlings Adirondack professional model ash bat is un-cracked with outstanding game use in the form of ball contact marks, stitch impressions, ink transfers and bat rack streaks. Model number "MAC25", order number "769" and year "98" are stamped into the knob. The weight in ounces ("33") and "McGwire" are handwritten on the knob in black ink. There is a heavy coat of pine tar on the handle and around the center brand. Mac has signed the front barrel with "STL 25, 98" inscribed in thick 9-10/10 black marker.
Full LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA with GU 10 grade. Full LOA from Beckett for the autograph and a Letter of Provenance from former major league all-star catcher Javy Lopez of the Atlanta Braves. McGwire gifted this bat to Lopez during the 1998 campaign and has been in Lopez' personal collection until now.