The American League was once again at a disadvantage in 1965 as the National League assembled one of the most amazing batting line-ups ever to share an All-Star roster. The team that took the field at Metropolitan Stadium in Minnesota included such legends as Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Willie Stargell, Richie Allen, Joe Torre, Ernie Banks, Pete Rose, Maury Wills, Roberto Clemente and Frank Robinson. Still, the '65 game was close and tied 5-5 in the seventh. Then Sam McDowell walked Mays who went to third on Aaron's single and scored on Ron Santo's infield single. The win gave the National League the lead in the series for the first time (18-17-1).
48 years ago, the Twins visiting clubhouse manager was in charge of the National League dugout. Immediately after the game, as a "tip" for the services provided to the N.L. All Stars, he was awarded a large grouping of the Louisville Slugger specially marked All Star game bats that were issued to the N.L. squad. Over the next 30 years, friends,
neighbors and local kids were presented with the various 1965 All Star game bats that he had accumulated. Aaron, Stargell, Rose, and F. Robby were gone, given away as gifts. One such lucky recipient of his generosity received the bats of Roberto Clemente, Willie Mays and this Ernie Banks model. These three bats were previously unknown until they entered the hobby early in 2013, one owner removed from the person who received them right from the dugout.
This 1965 Ernie Banks bat is stamped "1965 ALL STAR GAME, Ernie Banks, MINNESOTA". The bat measures 35" in length, weighs 30 ounces, and has his preferred "S2" model number stamped on the knob. Light game use is evident, consistent with Banks 2-4 performance and likely single game usage. 13 black ball marks are found above the barrel. Lighter stitch marks are also found in the same relative area.
Overall this is an outstanding Banks All-Star gamer with regard to provenance and aesthetic quality.
Includes a LOA from MEARS (Graded A9).