1986 Barry Bonds Rookie Pittsburgh Pirates Game-Used Bat
(PSA/DNA)
Barry Bonds Rookie Year Bat: A Historic Piece of Baseball Memorabilia
An Iconic Artifact from a Legendary Career
In the realm of baseball memorabilia, few items carry the weight and significance of a rookie year bat from a player of Barry Bonds’ caliber. This particular bat, documented as being ordered by Bonds in 1985-86, represents the earliest known Bonds gamer authenticated by PSA/DNA. It is a tangible connection to the nascent stages of a career that would redefine the sport.
Specifications and Condition
The bat is a Louisville Slugger, model P72, measuring 34.5 inches in length and weighing 31.6 ounces. Crafted from ash wood, it remains in uncracked condition, a testament to its durability and the care with which it has been preserved. The bat exhibits several ball marks and ball stitch impressions on both the right and left barrel, alongside a light coat of pine tar on the handle, indicative of its game use.
- Manufacturer: LVS
- Model: P72
- Length: 34.5 inches
- Weight: 31.6 ounces
- Wood: Ash
- Condition: Uncracked
Historical Significance
Barry Bonds wore number “7” during the first month of his Major League Baseball career, and this bat bears that number on the knob in black marker. This detail not only authenticates the bat’s use during Bonds’ rookie year but also enhances its historical value. Presented to us as game-used, this bat is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA, graded 9.5, underscoring its exceptional game-use condition.
A Coveted Collectible
For collectors and enthusiasts of sports memorabilia, this bat is more than just a piece of wood; it is a fragment of baseball history. Barry Bonds, a seven-time MVP and one of the most prolific hitters in the game’s history, left an indelible mark on the sport. Owning a bat from his rookie year is akin to possessing a piece of that legacy.
This bat is not just a collectible; it is a celebration of Bonds’ extraordinary achievements and a testament to his enduring influence on the game. As such, it holds a place of honor in any serious baseball collection.
Conclusion
The Barry Bonds rookie year bat is a rare and valuable artifact that offers a glimpse into the early days of a legendary career. Its impeccable condition and authenticated provenance make it a must-have for any collector of MLB memorabilia. As it stands, this bat is not merely a relic of the past but a symbol of the greatness that Barry Bonds would come to embody in the world of baseball.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.