This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/29/2019
The offered bat was used by the great Frank Robinson during the last chapter of his storied MLB playing career. A member of the 500 Home Run Club with 586 career dingers, he holds the distinction of being the only player ever to win MVP honors in both leagues: 1961 with the Reds and 1966 with the Orioles when he also won the Triple Crown. Robinson made more history by becoming MLB’s first African-American manager in 1975. His playing career was not over until the end of the ’76 campaign, however, as he served the final two years with the noble “player/manager” tag. In 1977 he began his strictly managerial and coaching roles for another 20 seasons among four different franchises, and also served as a league executive.
Outstanding evidence of use is present on this 1974-75 Frank Robinson H&B professional model bat. Robinson’s R161 model bat displays a crack on the upper handle that has been secured. The barrel shows several ball marks and stitch impressions along with black ink transfers. There are red and blue bat rack paint streaks and a light coat of pine tar on the handle. The model number “R161” is stamped into the knob end and Robinson’s famous number “20” is handwritten on both ends in black marker. Frank Robinson’s signature appears on the barrel in black ink. LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA (I02413) (GU 8.5).
Comes with JSA LOA (125982).
Comes with a Beckett LOA (A52325).