SCP Auctions November 2010 Internet Auction

Dating from the 1970-72 period according to it’s labeling and specifications, this Clemente gamer is among the finest of a scant few autographed examples we’ve encountered. Much of this claim is attributed to the fact that Clemente inscribed and presented this bat to his former Pirates teammate Woody Fryman in 1972, an act that is documented in an accompanying letter from Fryman himself. The Hillerich & Bradsby model G105M professional model bat is un-cracked and shows evidence of excellent use. Several ball marks and ball stitch impressions are visible on the left and back barrel. Also visible on the bat are blue and green bat rack streaks and there is light coat of pine tar on the top barrel, back barrel and handle. The model number (G105M) is stamped into the knob. Clemente's number “21” is written on the knob and top barrel in black marker. The number “35” is written over the “21” on the knob also in black marker indicating the bat was also used by Pirates catcher Manny Sanguillen. In an accompanying LOA from PSA/DNA it is noted that the G105M model is absent on Roberto Clemente's factory ordering records from 1970 to 1972, although the model number G105 appears on the record twenty-six times, leading to the assumption that the omission of the “M” was an oversight or that this model was shipped to him to try at no charge to the Pirates. Most significantly, the bat bears a beautifully rendered Roberto Clemente signature and his added inscription “To My Good Friend Woody with Respect and Admiration-Best Wishes” written on the front barrel in blue ink (8/10). In the accompanying letter of provenance signed by Fryman, he states that Clemente gave him this bat, so inscribed, at a game in Philadelphia in 1972. Fryman had been traded from the Pirates to Philadelphia in 1968. In the letter Fryman misstates the model number of the bat as “U1”. Given the bats player to player provenance, Clemente’s inscription and excellent usage characteristics, we whole heartedly rank this among the premier Clemente game bats in circulation. Includes LOA from Woody Fryman and LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA (Grade GU7). Also includes full LOA from PSA/DNA. (auto.)