Frank Baker Decal Bat

[slidekellyslide]

What do you guys think of this bat? Decal is probably 50%, bat has a crack. The guy wants $395 for it. Good deal or pass?

[vintagesportscollector]

How long is it?

[slidekellyslide]

Not sure...it's not a mini or kid's bat.

[vintagesportscollector]

If it's at least 33" long I think fair deal. I like that it's a 1911-16 label, which dates to the heart of his PHA playing days, which I see fewer of than post 1916 H&B label FB bats. Some speculate these could be major league game used bats. Label is unfortunately worn. The best half of the decal, his head, is showing so that's good. I've seen these go for more or less. In this condition $395 seems OK. I'd offer $300 and see if you can get for less.

[slidekellyslide]

Thanks for the info!

[vintagesportscollector]

Maybe the bat experts can chime in, but if the right size, could be a pro model bat??...in which case, Buy!!

[murphusa]

I agree with Joe

[yanks12025]

I would consider this a pro model one. But depends on what expert you talk to. But I consider them pro models as long as they don't have the 40 in the center. Also depends on the length. If it's 32 inches then it wouldn't meet bakers records.

[slidekellyslide]

33" - 36 ounces (the scale is zeroed out with the box on it, the bat really does weight 36 ounces almost exactly).

[perezfan]

Agree with Brock. This is not the typical Retail Model. If it was, Id pass. But as-is, it could be a great buy. What is the length?

[perezfan]

I was typing when you posted the length. I would buy it and then send to Mears for Authentication.

[yanks12025]

Pretty sure 33 inches is too short for Baker. But I'm sure mears would still call it game used by him. I think they might have sold another baker that was 33 inches long.

[perezfan]

They'll probably say that they have exemplars measuring 33" but that 34" was Baker's more commonly-used length. Either way, this is NOT the Retail (Store) Model Bat.

[slidekellyslide]

I appreciate everyone's help.

[murphusa]

Now just hope the seller has not been reading and ups the price

[slidekellyslide]

I already bought it. :D