This is a 1973-75 Dusty Baker Louisville Slugger Professional Model Game Used Bat with Vintage Autographs from Dusty Baker and Mike Lurn. This bat dates to the 1973-75 period based on the Louisville Slugger centerbrand. Baker ordered the M110 model in 35" length and varied in weights between 32.5 and 33.5 ounces, which this bat is consistent with. This bat currently weighs 32.75 ounces and measures 35 inches in length.
This bat exhibits moderate use with a few ball marks present along the barrel of the bat. This bat has a few black bat rack marks running along the barrel. Both Dusty Baker and Mike Lurn have autographed (vintage) this bat in black pen between the centerbrand and barrel signature of the bat. Dusty has also included a "Best wishes" inscription.
Baker was a solid outfielder throughout his 19 year career, not only in the field as he collected a Gold Glove Award in 1981, but also at the plate where he batted .278 throughout his career with 1,981 hits and 242 home runs. Some of Baker's most productive years were from 1973-75 when he recorded career highs in both hits, 174, and RBIS, 99, in 1973, and in doubles, 35, in 1974. Baker gained many awards during his career including a Gold Glove Award, two Silver Slugger Awards, and was one a World Champion, in 1981, with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Baker has continued his legacy in the big leagues as a manager. He has managed for three teams so far in his managerial career, the San Francisco Giants, 1993-2002, the Chicago Cubs, 2003-2006, and the Cincinnati Reds, 2008 - Present. He has been awarded the Manager of the Year, three times during his managerial career, in 1993, 1997, and 2000.
This bat grades out at the MEARS A8 grade with five points for the base grade, two points for the moderate use, one point for the vintage autograph, and no point deductions. A JSA COA, hologram #D82597, accompanies this bat which attests to the authenticity of the autograph.
Collection of MEARS Staff.