Roger Hornsby 1927-28 H&B Professional Model Bat

Regarded by many as the greatest right-handed hitter of all time, Rogers Hornsby took special care of his batting eyes, refusing to read newspapers or watch movies. He hit over .400 three times, won seven batting titles, and retired with the second highest batting average in baseball history (.358). As a player/manager with five different teams, he won two pennants and a World Series title with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1926, that team's first championship. Some say Hornsby's scientific approach to the craft of hitting rivaled that of Ted Williams a generation later. An ideal tool of Hornsby's trade is offered here from the 1927-28 labeling period. Measuring 35 inches at a hefty weight of 40.5 ounces, the Hillerich & Bradsby Hornsby professional model shows evidence of heavy use with a handle crack that has been repaired with nails. Several ball marks are visible on the right and back barrel. Also visible on the bat are cleat marks on the right, left and back barrel. Identifiable player characteristics and great visual qualities make this a fine example of one of the more highly sought pre-war player bats. LOA from John Taube of PSA/DNA (Graded GU7).