This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/22/2019
Looking back on the true icons of 20th-century baseball, many have concluded that, although he doesn't have his name atop of many categories in the record books, there may never have been a more complete ballplayer in the history of the sport than "The Say Hey Kid" Willie Mays. Had he not lost almost two full seasons to military service, Willie Mays was a likely candidate to end Babe Ruth's reign as the all-time home run king. Oh, but was far more than a mere home run threat, leading the National League in stolen bases for four consecutive years and winning 12 straight Gold Glove awards, marks that helped coin the phrase "five-tool player." The featured 35", 32-ounce H&B Louisville Slugger was used by Mays during the 1960 season and actually launched a homer while in service. The uncracked "S2" model bat (as stamped on the knob) has block lettering "MAYS" on the barrel (due to an exclusive contract on his signature from Adirondack) and exhibits plenty of game use with ball marks, cleat marks, pine tar and four inches of tape remaining from its time at the Polo Grounds. Signed by Mays in black marker, an inscription on the barrel that read "San Francisco Giants August 13, 1960 Milwaukee County" was placed in green ink, having faded but still leaving an impression upon the wood. To the right of the Mays lettering appears "HOME..." and while the complete legend is not legible, it should be noted that Mays indeed hit a home run of of Bob Buhl in the specified game, his 22nd of the 1960 season and #272 in his career. LOA from John Taube - PSA/DNA with a grade of GU 9. ***ADDENDUM*** - John Taube - PSA/DNA has authenticated this bat as having been used to hit career home run #272 with a grade of GU 9, though the date written on the barrel is indiscernible. Also, the LOA states that there may be a concealed slight crack in the handle.