Ruth Gamers

[Runscott]

I'm confused. Both Louisville Sluggers, both with the same Ruth signature stamp, but different labels. Are they both actually 'Pro' models?

Per Legendary, here's a 1922-25 'Pro Model' Ruth game-used bat:



And, per Mears, here's a 1921-31 'Pro Model' Ruth game-used bat:

[UnVme7]

I would suggest getting this book:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Louisville-S...item232e5c2a2c

It will go over different labeling throughout the years. You'll be surprised at how many variations there are. Plus, it has the majority of bat records for the HOF'ers.

[Runscott]

Originally Posted by UnVme7

I would suggest getting this book:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Louisville-S...item232e5c2a2c

It will go over different labeling throughout the years. You'll be surprised at how many variations there are. Plus, it has the majority of bat records for the HOF'ers.

Thanks, Nate. I don't collect bats and probably never will, but I always do 'Babe Ruth' searches in auctions, and these two caught my eye.

If anyone has an answer to my question, I would greatly appreciate it.

[ksfarmboy]

I guess the short answer is yes they are both considered pro models. The 40k is a cork grip model. There has been photographic evidence that these were used in games. Matt H. specializes in the 40k models and I'm sure he could expand on this if he reads this.

[UnVme7]

Here's an old thread that may help answer your question.

http://www.net54baseball.com/showthread.php?t=151152

I personally am not a huge fan of 40k bats, but I know some are.

[BigJJ]

Both 125 and 40k model bats were used in the pros. and these models were also sold in stores. There are a few ways to differentiate between pro versus store model. With regard to these two bats, which date to the 20s, both lack inch marks on the bottom knob. Therefore they were both Not intended for stores, and both Were intended for professional use. 40k bats are as professional a model as 125 bats. Ruth has only one recorded order for 40k bats on his Louisville records, on April 10, 1923, 8 days before opening day 1923! All photos I have seen of Ruth at the grand opening of the first Yankee Stadium, show him with 40k model bats. There may have been an additional 40k order for Ruth in 1924, I am beginning to think there was. We do not know as the 1924 Louisville log book went missing some time after a photo shoot in the mid-2000s. Ruth is one of a number of top players who used a 40k at some point in their career in addition to a 125. Both bats, while different models, are pro model.

[Runscott]

Thanks for the lesson, guys - very helpful!