This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/29/2011
From the collection of a prominent Baltimore Orioles collector, this 1980 Louisville Slugger is a perfect specimen of an Eddie Murray bat. Review of Eddie Murray's personal bat records indicate that this bat was one of six ordered by Murray during 1980. The records read:
4-25-80, R161, none, 35 1/2", 35 ounces, (A6). This references on April 25th, 1980, Murray ordered the R161 model, with no finish (none), measuring 35 1/2", weighing 35 ounces. This is the only time Eddie Murray ordered this bat to these specifications.
Player Traits: Bat exhibits and abundance of Eddie Murray documented player traits. First, the 5 separated ringlets of handle tape is a known early trait of Eddie Murray. Secondly, the black 33 with red outline is a identifier found on many authentic Eddie Murray bats. Murray had the tendency to add the 33 on the knob in one color, usually black, and then highlight the number in a second color. In an interview between MEARS evaluator Troy R. Kinunen and Eddie Murray in the cafeteria during the 3,000 hit show, Murray remarked how he personally added the uniform numbers to his bats throughout his career. This number is certainly added in Murray's own hand. Pinetar, another trait of early Murray bats, is found in a 17" area from knob towards the centerbrand of the barrel.
Game Use: Bat exhibits heavy game use. In the area directly below the facsimile Murray barrel signature, dozens of deeply embedded balls marks have penetrated the grain of the bat. A unique concentration of blue American League ball marks have mixed with the lace and seam marks, creating a cluster of heavy game use in the area. In the area above the barrel signature are several black bat rack marks. 10 or more cleat marks are found on the barrel end of the bat.
Final Grade MEARS A10: A base grade of 5 points was assigned for bat perfectly matching factory records, 3 points were assigned for heavy game use, 2 points were granted for documented 33 on knob and Murray consistent tape handle job.
Issued during the 1980-83 label period, this bat can be pinpointed to the 1980 season.
Player: Eddie Murray
Block/Script Name: Script
Label Period: 1980-83
Year/s Used: 1980
Teams Played During Era of Bat: Baltimore Orioles
Mfg: H&B
Model Number: R161
Length: 35.5"
Weight: 34.25 oz.
Game Use: Heavy
Ball Marks: Heavy
Swelling: Yes
Grain Separation: No
Cleat Marks: Yes
Rack Marks: Yes
Cracked: No
Pine Tar: Moderate
Handle Tape: Yes, 5 tape rings
Handle Crack: No
Barrel Crack: No
Dents/Gouges: Yes
Autographed: No
Uniform Number: 33
Knob Markings: 33, red/black marker
Barrel Markings: None
Grade: MEARS A10, 5 base points, 3 use points, +2 #33 on knob and player traits