Best-In-Class
1984 Mike Schmidt 400th Home Run Bat PSA/DNA GU 10.. ...
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Description
1984 Mike Schmidt 400th Home Run Bat PSA/DNA GU 10.
Best-In-Class Expert Analysis/Summary:
The game of baseball has produced legends at every position on the field. As a result, lively debates often ensue as fans argue over which players are the best at their respective positions. However, few arguments ensue regarding third base as most feel there is only one name to consider - Mike Schmidt. Schmidt excelled on both sides of the diamond. The most dominant power hitter in the National League was also a 10-time Gold Glove winner. Schmidt's balanced performance was on full display in 1984, when the Hall of Famer led the league in home runs (36), RBI (106), and OPS (.919) while earning a Gold Glove for his defensive work.
One of the 36 homers hit that season was number 400 of Schmidt's career, a towering drive to right-center against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This bat has been attributed to that very milestone. In fact, that bat has been marked "HR # 400" above the center brand and is accompanied by a notarized letter of provenance from Schmidt. Along with other items, the legend initially brought the bat to the auction market in 2014. In addition to its ironclad provenance, the bat is an exemplary example of a well-used Schmidt gamer. The barrel is covered in cleat marks, a notable Schmidt trait and the hitting zone is riddled with stitch impressions. His uniform number (20) can be found on the knob and barrel end, while the pattern of pine tar is typical for Schmidt in both amount and location.
The combination of exceptional player characteristics, eye appeal, provenance, and attribution to a historic milestone, makes this Schmidt gamer one of the finest known.