Few rookies put forth the type of season that Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim outfielder Mike Trout did in 2012. To say Trout's first season was spectacular doesn't even do it justice, as he led all rookies in nearly every offensive category and was a unanimous choice for the American League's Rookie of the Year and runner-up for league MVP. Trout also became the first player in major league history to steal 45 bases, score 125 runs and hit 30 home runs in a single season. Additionally, he is the only player to hit .320 or above with 30 home runs and 45 stolen bases in a single season. All that with missing most of the first month of the season.
Although demand for Mike Trout memorabilia is ravenous, very little game used material has made its way to the marketplace. In fact, it's important to note that Trout only ordered 60 bats for his entire rookie campaign, which is a fraction of what most players order for a season. From Trout’s sophomore season we present this is this 33.5 inch, 32 ounce Old Hickory model J 143 Mike Trout professional model bat.
Aside from the usual desirability of a Trout gamer, what makes this bat great is the fact that the exact usage is known. This particular bat was used by Trout during a 1st inning at-bat, on June 20, 2013 in a game between the Angels and the Seattle Mariners in Anaheim. Facing the M’s ace, Felix Hernandez, Trout used this bat to slug a first inning single. Upon the conclusion of the at-bat, this bat was ushered into the dugout and handed off to a Major League Baseball (MLB) representative who authenticated the bat and applied the coveted MLB Authentication hologram. Further research photo matches this bat to the aforementioned game and at-bat, as proven by Getty Images photo number 173145177. Capping off this terrific game used relic is a beautiful silver metallic marker autograph from Trout across the black barrel.
The bat shows light to moderate use. The lower handle and knob have been taped to enhance the grip and there is a light application of Mota Stick on the handle. With Trout offering up what may be yet another MVP season in 2015, the demand for his early career bats continues to far surpass the supply. Nice gamer with rock-solid provenance! Bat includes a detailed serial-numbered hologram from Major League Baseball (MLB) Authentication.