This is a 1911-19 Vic Saier H&B Louisville Slugger Professional Model Side Written Vault Marked Game Used Bat. This bat dates to the 1911-19 period based on Saier's career. This unmarked centerbrand bat, currently weighs 38.5 ounces and measures 34.25 inches in lengt. It has been attributed to production or at least return to Louisville Slugger based on the traits present, i.e. stampings, side writing, etc.
This bat exhibits heavy use with ball marks present on each side of the barrel with swelling and surface marks evident. The knob has a few minor chips. The knob has "Saier" vault marked on them. Side writing is visible along the barrel of the bat, however, only "Saier" is visible with the return date and team being present, but not legible.
Vic Saier replaced Frank Chance at first base for the Cubs when they began to phase him out of the Cubs lineup in the early 1910s. In 1913, Saier batted a league leading 21 triples and drove in a career high 92 runs, but his career with the Cubs ended in 1917 when he suffered a back injury. Saier would return however, with the Pirates in 1919, but after that season never made it back to the Big Leagues.
This bat grades out at the MEARS A9.5 grade with five points for the base grade, three points for heavy use, two points for the side writing/vault marking, and a half point deduction for the chipped knob.
Collection of MEARS Staff.