How Do Bats Get Photo Matched?
 

I am not a big bat collector, but I am wondering how this process works. I know that one might get lucky and find a match themselves, then submit it with the bat to PSA or Mears.

Short of that, do PSA and/or Mears look through a photo database as part of a submission?

Are there independent groups that do this type of thing? If so, do they need the bat in hand?

Thanks in advance

Most collectors photo match their own bats by pouring over game photos from sites like Google, Getty images, AP Images, etc. There must be exacting, identifiable marks on the bat that cannot be replicated. Often times people will look at a grip tape style or brand name and think that they have a “photo match” when what they really have is what we call a style match. A photo match must be a specific mark that matches up exactly. There are some companies that offer the service as well.

Photo Matching
 

Listed below is an excellent source for photo matching Game Used Bats and other items.

@endtoendphotomatch • Instagram photos and videoshttps://www.instagram.com › endtoendphotomatch

^^THIS^^

The only thing I can add is be very careful of those that that do what the above poster calls "style match" and call it a photo match. One of the big AHs have a LOT of style match photos they call photo matches.

I know the guy that got me into collecting bats has spent insane hours searching the internet and contacting museums for pictures. He has found proof for some amazing bats doing it.

Photo matches
 

One thing to be very careful of if you look for photos yourself is to make sure you do not get too excited if a photo comes back as close, but not exact enough to make a definitive call. In my experience, I can totally talk myself into believing that a photo is a match; when in reality, there is just not enough there.

I recommend getting an objective, trusted buddy to look at comparisons for you and play devil's advocate a little for any potential matches you find; before submitting to PSA or MEARS.

Yep. It's frustrating to see folks misuse the term, "photomatch," when describing items for sale. Some folks may be ignorant about the meaning, but then they shouldn't be using terms they don't understand.