1999 Jim Leyritz San Diego Padres Game-Used Bat

Jim Leyritz’s Historic Home Run Bat: A Piece of Baseball Legacy

A Moment Frozen in Time

On the evening of October 27, 1999, during the eighth inning of Game Four of the World Series, Jim Leyritz stepped up to the plate and etched his name into the annals of baseball history. With a powerful swing, he sent the ball soaring over the fence, extending the New York Yankees’ lead to four to one against the Atlanta Braves. This pivotal moment not only secured the Yankees’ victory in the game and the series but also marked the last home run of the 20th century. This bat, with which Leyritz hit that historic home run, stands as a testament to his remarkable achievement.

The Bat’s Unique Characteristics

The bat used by Leyritz is a McGwire model Adirondack, a favorite of his, even after his transition from the San Diego Padres to the Yankees. It bears the team name “Padres” on the front barrel, a nod to his previous team. The bat showcases extensive use, with hit marks on both the left and right hitting surfaces of the barrel. Black rack streaks adorn all sides, while a dark blue ball transfer mark graces the back barrel, complemented by white ball markings on the barrel end and front.

• Model: MAC 25
• Order Period: 1999
• Length: 34.5 inches
• Weight: 32.7 ounces
• Wood: Ash
• Finish: Natural

On the barrel end, “MAC 25” and Leyritz’s player number “13” are inscribed in black marker. The knob end features the bat measurements “34 1/2 – 33” and the player number “13,” also in black marker. A heavy coat of pine tar on the handle and a small piece of missing wood from the back barrel, along with some checking, add to the bat’s character and authenticity.

Provenance and Accompaniment

This extraordinary piece of baseball memorabilia is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from PSA/DNA, as well as a letter from the Leyritz family, ensuring its impeccable provenance. Additionally, it comes with a photograph capturing the moment Leyritz hit this historic home run, further cementing its place in baseball lore.

A Legacy of Historic Proportions

Jim Leyritz’s home run in the 1999 World Series was a repeat of his 1996 World Series performance, where he also hit a crucial home run in the eighth inning against the Braves. This bat not only symbolizes Leyritz’s personal triumphs but also represents a significant chapter in the storied history of the New York Yankees. As a piece of sports memorabilia, it offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a fragment of baseball history, a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the game’s most memorable moments.

For those interested in acquiring this remarkable artifact, it is available through our baseball collectibles for sale at Grey Flannel Auctions. This bat is not just a piece of wood; it is a symbol of a bygone era, a relic of the last home run of the 20th century, and a cherished memory for baseball enthusiasts worldwide.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.