This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/28/2019
Arguably the most unforgettable moment in the post-war era of America's pastime was Kirk Gibson hobbling around the bases in euphoria after delivering his miraculous pinch-hit, game-winning home run off Dennis Eckersley in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series. The sight of Gibby's double arm pump to the sound of Vin Scully's iconic call will forever give every Dodgers fan goosebumps. Presented here is the same style bat Gibson used for that clutch blast. Order records date this Worth WC137 pro model bat to 1988-89.
Gibson signed with L.A. before the '88 season as a free agent and proved well worth the investment as he won National League MVP honors with a .290 average, 106 runs, 25 homers, 76 RBI and 31 steals. More importantly, the grit and determination provided sound leadership in the clubhouse and helped the Dodgers turn in a magical season. Injuries began to take their toll on Gibson starting in '89 and he was never quite the same. His legend, though, will never die in the hearts of Big Blue Nation.
Measuring 34.5 inches and weighing 34.8 ounces, the two-toned ash Worth Tennessee Thumper bat is un-cracked and shows outstanding game use, with ball marks and stitch impressions on the barrel and blue bat rack streaks also visible. The handle has been scored to improve grip and it carries a moderate coat of pine tar. The bat length ("4 1/2") is stamped on the knob end along with Gibson's uniform No. "23" in black marker. John Taube of PSA/DNA has given this awesome specimen a 9.5 game used grade, making it a clear second to the '88 World Series GW-homer bat that we sold in 2010 for a post-war record $575,912.