Incredible Griffer Gamer Used to Hit The 381st Homer of His Illustrious Career!
Undoubtedly the greatest five-tool player since Willie Mays, the younger Griffey quickly stepped out from the shadow of his famous father to supply more than two decades of brilliant service to Major League Baseball en route to Cooperstown immortality. Griffey Jr. likely also saved baseball in Seattle. Before the Kid arrived in the Emerald City, the M’s were doormats of the American League western division. After he asserted his aptitude, Seattle demonstrated some of baseball’s best performances.
This Louisville Slugger model C271 bat (33-3/4″ and 30.7 ounces) was used by Griffey Jr. when he clubbed his 31st home run in 1999. The game took place July 23, 1999 against Minnesota. Griffey Jr. connected against LaTroy Hawkins in the fifth inning. A crack runs 5-1/2″ on the handle, and there’s a small chip missing from the crack. Numerous ball and stitch marks appear on the right and back barrel. As customary on a Griffey gamer from this time period, zig-zag athletic tape runs for an 8-1/2″ distance on the handle. Cleat marks and teal bat rack streaks also vouch for use. Griffey signed the barrel in silver paint pen and added “HR 31 99.” A PSA/DNA sticker is affixed to the barrel. Junior would finish the 1999 season with 123 runs, 134 RBIs and an AL-leading 48 homers.
The experts at PSA/DNA characterize the use as excellent, referencing ball marks, stitch impressions, blue ink transfers, scuffs, cleat marks, bat rack marks and 8.5" spiral criss-cross taped handle, a Griffey, Jr. trademark.
Acquired direct from Griffey some years back by Unique Sports, the lot is accompanied by a color photocopy of a COA by Ken Griffey, Jr., which certifies the bat as being used by Junior to launch his 31sy homer of the 1998 season.
Accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity for game usage from John Taube/PSA/DNA and for the autograph from Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).