This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 6/22/2017.
Hank Greenberg was one of the premier power hitters of his generation, hitting 58 home runs in 1938. Greenberg was a five-time All-Star and was twice named the American League's Most Valuable Player. He is the American League record holder for most RBIs in a single season by a right-handed batter—183 RBI in 1937 (a 154-game schedule.) This bat could in fact be from that very year that he had 183 RBI. Greenberg was the first Jewish superstar in American professional sports. He attracted national attention in 1934 when he refused to play baseball on Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement, even though the Tigers were in the middle of a pennant race. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1956. Manuf: Hillerich & Bradsby Model Number: None (Pre Model) Labeling Period: 1939-1941 Length: 35.0 inches Weight: 34.6 ounces Wood: Ash Finish: Standard. This Hank Greenberg professional model bat is uncracked with evidence of outstanding use. Many ball marks and ball stitch impressions are visible on all sides of the barrel. Cleat marks can be seen on the right, left, and back barrel. A notable characteristic of Greenberg is his handle preparation to enhance his grip and this bat has been taped approximately 10 inches in spiral pattern. The labeling period is defined by the center brand and the version of “Powerized” branded to the right of the center brand. The bat displays a C-9 center brand that appeared on Hillerich & Bradsby pro bats from 1938-43 and the P-4 variation of “Powerized” appeared from 1939-43. Greenberg left baseball to serve in the US Army Air Forces from 1942-44, which helps us correctly date the game-used bat to be used from 1938-41. Greenberg was the AL MVP in 1940 so this bat could potentially have been used in his MVP season. This historic relic of baseball is properly marked, was presented to us as game-used and has been graded a GU 9.5 by PSA/DNA.