2008 Alex Rodriguez Game Used & Signed Home Run Bat - HR #548 - Tying Mike Schmidt! (JSA + PSA Graded 9)

Bidding

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/16/2011

Pitchers get a little jittery when Alex Rodriguez settles into the batter’s box. It doesn't matter if a pitcher is on top of his game because A-Rod has no weaknesses. A three-time A.L. MVP, Rodriguez became the youngest man ever to club 500 home runs. 2008 was yet another All-Star season for Rodriguez as he finished with a .302 batting average, 35 home runs and 103 RBIs while finishing up his tenure at the original Yankee Stadium. This exact Louisville Slugger model C271 bat (34” and 30.5 ounces) accompanied Rodriguez to the dish when he hit career homer #548. In the eighth inning, the future home run king connected on an Jason Hammel offering for his 30th homer of the season. Adding to the historical significance of the homer, the blast tied A-Rod with Mike Schmidt for 12th on the All-Time Home Run list.

This uncracked piece of lumber exhibits great use with ball/hit marks on all angles of the barrel and cleat marks throughout. Blue bat rack marks are visible on the back and front barrel. Moderate pine tar application appears on the handle. A-Rod signed the barrel and provided the noteworthy inscription "Game Used 9-2-08 Career HR 548 vs. J. Hammel, Tying Mike Schmidt." PSA/DNA bat authenticator John Taube gave this specimen a solid grade of GU 9. Further authentication comes via a COA from James Spence Authentication (JSA). A PSA/DNA sticker is affixed on the barrel end, with a JSA sticker affixed to the knob. Accompanied by a detailed Letter of Authenticity from John Taube/PSA/DNA.