6/4/1986 Barry Bonds Pittsburgh Pirates First MLB Home Run Game-Used Baseball

Barry Bonds’ First Home Run Baseball: A Piece of MLB History

An Iconic Moment in Baseball

On June 4th, 1986, a young Barry Bonds stepped up to the plate against the Atlanta Braves and launched the first of his 762 career home runs. This monumental event marked the beginning of one of the most storied careers in Major League Baseball history. Bonds’ first home run was hit off Braves pitcher Craig McMurtry, sending the ball deep into left field during the 5th inning. This moment not only signaled the emergence of a future home run king but also laid the foundation for a career that would captivate baseball fans for decades.

A Baseball with Unmatched Provenance

This historic baseball was gifted by Bonds to his financial advisor, Mel Wilcox, the man who played a crucial role in executing Bonds’ premarital agreement. Accompanied by a notarized letter of provenance from Wilcox’s daughter, Nicole Wilcox, this baseball is steeped in authenticity and history. Mel Wilcox is even mentioned in the book “Barry Bonds And The Making Of An Antihero” by Jeff Pearlman, further cementing the baseball’s storied past.

In a recent video interview, Bonds expressed his deep connection to this baseball, stating, “My most important one will always be my first one. So if I could ever get that ball from my very first home run that would be huge.” This auction presents a rare opportunity for Bonds to reclaim a cherished piece of his legacy.

Physical Characteristics and Authenticity

The Rawlings manufactured ONL Feeney baseball exhibits scuffing, hit marks, heavy toning, and game-use throughout, all of which attest to its storied past. Handwritten on a side panel in blue ink, likely by manager Jim Leyland, is the inscription: “First Major League Home Run Against Craig McMurtry 6-4-86.” This unique piece of baseball history is accompanied by a JT Sports LOA and a notarized Nicole Wilcox LOA, ensuring its authenticity and significance.

• Historical Significance: Represents Barry Bonds’ first career home run, a pivotal moment in MLB history.
• Unique Provenance: Gifted to Bonds’ financial advisor, Mel Wilcox, and accompanied by a notarized letter of provenance.
• Physical Condition: Displays game-use characteristics, including scuffing and hit marks.
• Authenticity: Accompanied by a JT Sports LOA and a notarized Nicole Wilcox LOA.

A Rare Opportunity for Collectors

This baseball is not just a piece of sports memorabilia; it is a tangible connection to the legacy of Barry Bonds, one of baseball’s most iconic figures. For collectors and enthusiasts, this is a chance to own a fragment of MLB history, a testament to Bonds’ enduring impact on the game. Explore more about such exclusive items in our baseball memorabilia auctions and discover the stories behind each piece.

If you have your own piece of history, consider our consignment services to share your treasures with the world. For those looking to sell sports memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a platform to connect with passionate collectors. Additionally, our appraisal services ensure that your items are valued accurately and fairly.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.