This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2016
Cal Ripken Jr. made his Major League debut at the end of the 1981 season, appearing in 23 games with the Orioles before embarking on one of the most legendary careers in sports. In 1983, his second full season in the Majors, he hit .318 while leading the League in runs (121), hits (211) and doubles (47). That performance would help lead the Orioles to their first World Championship in 13 years. Offered is a brown 35", 32.8-oz. Louisville Slugger game bat dating to that early period of his career. The signature-model "M159" bat is composed of top-quality white ash and features a hickory finish with deep and distinct manufacturer's stampings throughout. Ripken's uniform number ("8") is written on the knob in slightly faded silver marker. It is interesting to note that as an early Ripken game bat his facsimile signature on the barrel does not include the now familiar "Jr.," which would appear on all of his later bats. The bat is uncracked and displays light game use, including ball marks and ball stitch impressions on the right and left barrel as well as blue bat rack streaks.
Includes a LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA (Grade GU7.5).