This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/4/2017
Former New York Yankees Captain and Hall of Fame shoo-in candidate Derek Jeter burst upon the major league scene in 1996 as a wide-eyed rookie playing shortstop for the Bronx Bombers. Not only did Jeter have himself a stunning debut season (.314 batting average, 10 home runs and 104 runs scored), but he helped the Yankees win their 23rd World Series title. All in all it was an eye-opening beginning to what became a career in which he tallied the most hits ever (3,465) in Yankees history!
This lot features a very rare game-used bat from Jeter’s incredible rookie campaign. The black Rawlings Adirondack professional model bat, which measures 33.75” long and weighs 29.3 ounces, shows excellent evidence of game use with several ball marks and stitch impressions on the barrel as well as some cleat marks and a light coat of pine tar. What’s more, this particular bat was from an early Rawlings production run of Jeter bats from his rookie season as it is engraved on the knob with model number “225S” and order number "377" plus “96” for the year. This is before Jeter committed to Louisville Slugger as his bat of choice going forward. The barrel of the “Big Stick” bat includes “DEREK JETER” and “YANKEES” in white block lettering. A rare and highly coveted example from the first season of Jeter’s remarkable career in pinstripes.
Includes LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA confirming its game use during Jeter's 1996 rookie season. COA from All American Collectibles.
This lot has a Reserve Price that has not been met.