This is a 1956-59 Bill "Moose" Skowron H&B Louisville Slugger Professional Model Game Used Bat. This bat dates to the 1956-59 period based on the Louisville Slugger centerbrand period and the information provided by the Louisville Slugger factory records, which indicates that Skowron first ordered the S180 model bat in the 36" length on March 16, 1956 and last on March 11, 1959 during the 1950-60 centerbrand period. There are several orders during this period, which range in weight from 33 to 35 ounces. The order that most closely fits the specifications of this bat was placed on March 11, 1959 when Skowron made the only order of 36" 35 oz. S180 models bats during this period. Based on the possibility of fluctuation in the weight of this bat over the years this bat has been dated to the entire date range, 1956-59. This S180 model bat currently weighs 35.5 ounces and measures 35.75 inches in length.
This bat exhibits heavy use with ball marks present on top, back, and bottom of the barrel with the majority of use evident along the top back part of the barrel. Grain separation is visible along the top back of the barrel. Several bat rack and cleat marks are evident along the barrel. Dried pine tar is spread over a 10" section extending from the knob of the bat. A 16" H-style handle crack is present along the front, top, and back of the barrel, which has been repaired by 8 vintage nails; A few more nail holes are visible along the handle, but nails are not present. This crack runs slightly into the centerbrand, but does not affect it's visual appeal. Skowron's jersey number, 14, appears in a black paint-like substance on the knob of the bat. This bat has been autographed by Skowron in black marker between the centerbrand and barrel signature.
This is currently only the fourth Skowron bat present within the MEARS Database.
Moose played his first game for the Yankees on April 13, 1954. He wore uniform number 53 in the 1954 season, but switched to #14 in 1955 and stayed with that number for the rest of his years with the Yankees. From 1958 on he became the Yankees' full time first baseman. He played in five All-Star Games as a Yankee (1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, and 1961, three of these years date to the era of this bat) and won four World Series Championships with the Bronx Bombers (1956, 1958, 1961, and 1962). This bat dates to some of the best years with the Yankees that Skowron had.
This bat grades out at the MEARS A7.5 grade with five points for the base grade, three points for heavy use, one point for the documented uniform number on the knob, and a one and a half point deduction for the handle crack and nails. The autograph has been authenticated by JSA Authentication and can be found within the JSA database under the certification number D82602.
Collection of MEARS Staff.