6/6/1998 Ken Griffey Jr. Seattle Mariners Game-Used & Autographed Home Run Bat
(Full JSA LOA • PSA/DNA GU7• Griffey Jr. LOA • HR No. 23 • AL Home Run Leader)
Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1998 Home Run Bat: A Piece of Baseball History
An Iconic Season for a Legendary Player
On June 6th, 1998, the baseball world witnessed a moment of brilliance as Ken Griffey Jr., a first-ballot National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee, launched his 23rd home run of the season against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This remarkable feat was part of a season where Griffey led the American League in home runs, a testament to his extraordinary prowess at the plate. Not only did he dominate in home runs, but Griffey also earned the prestigious Silver Slugger and Gold Glove Awards, further solidifying his status as one of the game’s greats. His triumph in the Home Run Derby and selection to the MLB All-Century Team underscore his enduring legacy in the sport.
The Bat: Specifications and Condition
The bat in question, manufactured by H&B, is a model C271 with a length of 33 7/8 inches and a weight of 29.8 ounces. Crafted from ash wood with a sleek black finish, this bat was used during the 1998 season. It bears the marks of heavy game use, with ball and hit marks visible on all sides of the barrel, complemented by blue and white ball transfer marks and cleat impressions. The handle shows significant pine tar use, indicative of Griffey’s grip and style. The bat is cracked on the handle, a testament to its extensive use during that iconic season.
- Manufacturer: H&B
- Model Number: C271
- Length: 33 7/8 inches
- Weight: 29.8 ounces
- Wood: Ash with black finish
- Condition: Cracked on the handle, heavy game use
A Signature of Excellence
Adding to the bat’s allure is Ken Griffey Jr.’s signature on the front barrel, inscribed with “98 – HR 23” in silver pen. This autograph, in our opinion, rates a 7 overall, enhancing the bat’s value and desirability. The bat exhibits atypical Griffey Jr. attributes, possibly due to use by another legendary player, Alex Rodriguez. The presence of a PSA/DNA sticker “1B11637” on the knob further authenticates this exceptional piece of baseball memorabilia.
Accompanied by Certificates of Authenticity
This extraordinary bat comes with a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, PSA/DNA, and a signed Ken Griffey Jr. Certificate of Authenticity (COA), ensuring its provenance and significance in the realm of baseball memorabilia auctions. Such documentation not only verifies the bat’s authenticity but also enhances its appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
For those interested in acquiring or selling similar items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a platform for consigning baseball jerseys and other memorabilia. Our expertise in appraising MLB items ensures that each piece is valued accurately, reflecting its historical and sentimental worth.
Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1998 home run bat is not merely a piece of wood; it is a fragment of baseball history, a symbol of a season where Griffey’s talent shone brightly. This bat represents the pinnacle of his career, a testament to his enduring legacy in the annals of baseball. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this bat offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of the magic that is Ken Griffey Jr.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.