1971 Roberto Clemente Pittsburgh Pirates Game-Used Bat Attributed to the 1971 World Series

Roberto Clemente’s 1971 World Series Bat: A Testament to Baseball Greatness

A Legendary Career and Unmatched Legacy

Roberto Clemente, an icon of Major League Baseball, dedicated his entire 18-year career to the Pittsburgh Pirates, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. His accolades are numerous: a National League MVP Award in 1966, 12 All-Star Game selections, and 12 Gold Glove Awards. Clemente’s prowess at the plate was equally impressive, as he led the league in batting average four times. Beyond his athletic achievements, Clemente was a humanitarian, delivering aid and baseball equipment to Latin American countries. Tragically, his life was cut short in an aviation accident on December 31, 1972, while en route to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. His posthumous induction into the Hall of Fame in 1973 made him the first Latin American to receive this honor.

The 1971 World Series: Clemente’s Moment of Glory

In the 1971 World Series, the Pittsburgh Pirates triumphed over the Baltimore Orioles in a thrilling seven-game series. Roberto Clemente was named the Series MVP, having hit safely in all seven games, a testament to his exceptional skill and determination. The bat attributed to this historic series is a piece of baseball history, presented to us with impeccable provenance.

Details of the Bat

• Manufacturer: Adirondack
• Model: 129X
• Length: 36 inches
• Weight: 37.8 ounces
• Wood: Ash
• Labeling Period: 1968-71
• Condition: Cracked at the handle into the barrel, with a sliver crack measuring two and a quarter inches. Ball/hit marks are visible on the left and back barrel, and a light coat of pine tar is present on the mid handle. The player uniform number “21” is marked on both the knob and barrel ends in black marker, with the ounces marked on the knob end in pencil.

The bat is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA, graded an 8.5, and a letter of provenance from the consignor, detailing its history and connection to Clemente. The letter states, in part, “I received this bat from Roberto Clemente while attending the World Series games held at Three Rivers Stadium in 1971…The bat was brought to me as a favor from Bob Prince (voice of the Pirates on KDKA) to my father by our usher…the reason I got this bat is simple, my father who was the Chairman of the Allegheny Board of Health for 35 years…one of his best friends was Bob Prince…I hope whoever buys this bat will cherish it as I have for another 40 years.”

A Cherished Piece of Baseball Memorabilia

This bat is not merely a piece of wood; it is a symbol of Roberto Clemente’s enduring legacy and the pinnacle of his career. It represents a moment in baseball history that continues to inspire fans and players alike. For those interested in acquiring this extraordinary artifact, it is a rare opportunity to own a piece of baseball history. Explore our baseball memorabilia auctions to discover more about this and other exceptional items.

At Grey Flannel Auctions, we are proud to offer such significant sports artifacts. If you have your own piece of history, consider our consignment services to share it with the world. For those looking to sell sports memorabilia, we provide expert guidance and a platform to reach passionate collectors. Additionally, our appraisal services ensure that your items are valued accurately and fairly.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.