1955-57 Ted Williams Boston Red Sox Game-Used Bat

Theodore Samuel Williams: A Batting Legend’s Artifact

An Icon of Baseball History

Theodore Samuel Williams, affectionately known as “The Splendid Splinter,” is a name that resonates with reverence in the annals of baseball history. A two-time American League MVP, Williams led the league in batting six times and was a two-time Triple Crown winner. His career, marked by a remarkable .344 batting average and 521 home runs, earned him a rightful place in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1966. Williams was not just a hitter; he was a phenomenon, recording a hit 34 percent of the time and reaching base an astounding 48 percent of the time.

The Legendary .406 Season

In 1941, Williams achieved what no player has since replicated: batting over .400 in a single season. Entering the final day of the season with a .39955 average, Williams could have opted to sit out and still be rounded up to .400. However, his integrity and passion for the game led him to play a doubleheader against the Athletics, where he went 6-for-8, finishing the season at .406. This decision and performance are testaments to his character and skill.

The Bat: A Testament to Greatness

The bat in question is a piece of baseball history, a relic from the years 1955-57, crafted by H&B Signature Model with the model number W183. Measuring 35 inches in length and weighing 32.7 ounces, this ash wood bat is in uncracked condition, showcasing visible ball and hit marks on the right, left, and back barrel. A moderate coat of olive oil rosin, preferred by Williams over pine tar, graces the upper handle, as confirmed by Johnny Orlando, Jr., a Red Sox bat boy. The bat is adorned with Williams’ number “9” on the knob end in black paint, and it exhibits evidence of tremendous use.

Why This Bat Matters

• Historical Significance: Represents the era when Williams was at the peak of his career.
• Unique Provenance: Presented to us as game-used, this bat is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA, grading it a GU10, the highest possible grade.
• Condition and Story: The bat’s condition and the story of its use add to its allure and historical value.

A Legacy Preserved

This bat is not merely a piece of wood; it is a fragment of baseball history, a symbol of Ted Williams’ enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the game. For those interested in exploring more about such iconic pieces, our baseball memorabilia auctions offer a treasure trove of history. Whether you are looking to consign baseball jerseys or sell MLB items, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in preserving and celebrating the legacy of sports legends.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.