This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/1/2010
Kansas-born Walter Johnson was the AL’s premier pitcher in his day, although he played the whole of his career for the lowly Senators. In 21 seasons he won 416 games, amassing a record 110 shutouts and 38 victories in 1-0 games. In the days before electronic speed guns, Johnson was believed to throw the fastest ball in the game, forcing the coined explanation “you can’t hit what you can’t see” from more than one opponent. Johnson’s own experience and adeptness in the batter’s box may have garnered little sympathy for those he faced on the mound. Though justifiably overshadowed by his pitching prowess, Johnson was known as the best hitting pitcher of his era. He was so effective with the bat that the Senators frequently called upon him to pinch hit. The “Big Train” clouted 21 homers during his storied career and in 1925 he batted .433, the highest average ever attained by any pitcher.
Game used bats from pitchers are understandably rare, particularly from the pre-war era. Pitchers typically placed only sparse orders for bats, and those few that were ordered generally lasted much longer than those used by their slugging contemporaries. This is one of only three documented examples of a Walter Johnson professional model game bat. Hand turned by H&B, its labeling dates the bat to the 1917-1920 period. Heavy use is apparent including a handle crack that has been repaired with glue. Many ball marks and ball stitch impressions are visible on the right barrel. Also visible on the bat are cleat marks. Strong manufacturer’s markings include the “dash-dot-dash” centerbrand and Johnson’s last name on the barrel stamped in block lettering. Measuring 34 3/4” and weighing 36.8 ounces, the bat also shows visible factory side writing that reads “3-13-20 39oz. Walter Johnson 3-13-20 Washington AM League.” Remains of an original shipping label are also present. The ideal physical traits of this extraordinary Walter Johnson game bat are only exceeded by its historical importance. It is a monumental rarity that warrants inclusion in any world-class bat collection. Includes LOAs from MEARS (Grade A10) and John Taube of PSA/DNA (Grade GU9).
This lot has a Reserve Price that has not been met.