This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/23/2015
A Steel City fan favorite, KiKi Cuyler all but single-handedly powered the Pittsburgh Pirates to the 1925 World Series title, drilling a bases-clearing double off of Washington ace Walter Johnson in the eighth inning of the decisive Game 7. Internal bickering was to follow, however, and less than two years later, Cuyler was no longer in good graces with club ownership. Following the 1927 season he was dealt to the Chicago Cubs— a move that enraged Bucs fans and puzzled the remainder of the baseball world. Cuyler quickly proved that his hitting ability hadn't lessened (as was feared by many following the questionable parting), posting a career-best .360 mark in 1929. Offered here is a Senior Circuit hitting keepsake: a H&B side-written bat wielded by Cuyler during his glorious days at Forbes Field. This 36", 32-oz. white ash, signature model lumber was turned during the 1921-1931 labeling period and can be narrowed to the early portion of that era. In request to obtain additional bats made to the same specifications, Cuyler's grease pencil notation of "H S Cuyler - 6-4-24" (his given name was "Hazen Shirley") is inscribed just above the centerbrand and barrel stampings. The brown-hued relic bears lathe marks and vault stampings of "C115" on both the knob and barrel end. The uncracked item reveals evidence of heavy use, with cleat and surface marks throughout, as well as grain swelling about the barrel and small chips on both the barrel and handle. A Hall of Fame find and welcome addition to any serious arsenal, this is the best documented Cuyler bat one could wish to own!
Includes a LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA (GU10).