1999 Tino Martinez Autographed & Paul O’Neill New York Yankees Game-Used Bats
(JSA • Steiner Sports COA • PSA/DNA Graded GU9 & GU7 Respectively)
Paul O’Neill and Tino Martinez: Iconic Bats from the 1999 Season
Paul O’Neill’s Louisville Slugger: A Testament to Precision
In the realm of baseball memorabilia, few items capture the essence of a player’s prowess like a game-used bat. The Paul O’Neill Louisville Slugger, model number C243, stands as a remarkable artifact from the 1999 season. Crafted from flame-burned ash, this bat measures an impressive 35 inches in length and weighs 34.1 ounces, embodying the power and precision synonymous with O’Neill’s playing style.
The bat is presented to us as game-used, exhibiting light game-use with distinctive player use attributes. The right barrel bears ball and hit marks, while black transfer marks and cleat impressions adorn all sides, narrating the story of its time on the field. The handle is meticulously taped in a criss-cross pattern, extending approximately 15 ½ inches, a signature touch of O’Neill. The player number “21” is inscribed in black on the knob, further authenticating its provenance. This bat is graded GU7, a testament to its condition and significance.
Tino Martinez’s Louisville Slugger: A Champion’s Relic
Complementing O’Neill’s bat is the Tino Martinez Louisville Slugger, model number B349, another exquisite piece from the 1999 season. This bat, crafted from ash, measures 34.25 inches and weighs 31.4 ounces. Unlike O’Neill’s, Martinez’s bat exhibits heavy game-use, with a notable crack on the handle, indicative of the intense moments it witnessed on the diamond.
Adorned with the player number “24” on the knob, this bat carries the legacy of Martinez’s illustrious career. The barrel is graced with Martinez’s signature in blue pen, accompanied by the inscription “4x WS CHAMPS,” celebrating his remarkable achievements. The autograph, in our opinion, rates an 8 overall, adding to the bat’s allure. This bat is graded GU9, underscoring its exceptional condition and historical value.
Why These Bats Matter
- Historical Significance: Both bats hail from the 1999 season, a pivotal year for the New York Yankees.
- Player Legacy: Representing Paul O’Neill and Tino Martinez, two stalwarts of the Yankees’ dynasty.
- Unique Provenance: Each bat is accompanied by a PSA/DNA sticker and additional authentication, ensuring their authenticity.
- Condition and Story: The bats’ conditions, from O’Neill’s uncracked to Martinez’s cracked handle, tell unique stories of their use.
These bats are not merely pieces of wood; they are fragments of baseball history, embodying the spirit and achievements of two legendary players. For collectors and enthusiasts, owning such items is an opportunity to connect with the past and celebrate the enduring legacy of the game. Explore more of our sports memorabilia auctions to discover other treasures from the world of baseball.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.