Hi all. I found a bat finally, with the help of several Net 54 members. It is a pro 1916-1933 H&B, game used. Key Man Collectibles was invaluable for me getting the dating right (in this case the trademark lettering and position). I got it on eBay for $90 listed as a 1920's bat. Didn't even haggle...it just had the right vibe.
The name branded on barrell is Tillman. I searched and found John "Ducky" Tillman, the only Tillman in the time frame. - a pitcher who batted R&L. He played and managed for lots of Minor League teams for 19 years (figured all this from SABR, Baseball Reference, Wikipedia and Oracle). First team was New England Whalers. Even cooler, is that he was brought up to the Major Leagues for 2 games with the Saint Louis Browns in 1915. Even, more cool is that notations show he rotated in to pitch, and George Sisler moved to the outfield. With a few other notations I found, the dating he could have used this bat was likely 1921-1929 ish. So, it best appears it is a game used pro bat from the 20's.
A couple other interesting things- there are a couple nails holding a grain split (hardly noticable unless you were looking) and taped handle.
And, I can't understand this, the bat appears to have been corked. I studied this and there are bats from 20's corked, but rare. I read even Ruth used glued mixed wood shavings in some of his bats (eventually ruled illegal).
If anyone has thoughts on this mystery I would really appreciate it!!!!
Below are pictures - got the bat today - my vibe was correct. It looks and feels awesome.
BTW, if I am off base on any of this, please feel free to correct me. I did my homework, but you guys are the experts. You will not hurt my feelings if I got any, or all, wrong. I still love it. Thank you so much all NET54 members who got involved with me on this little project. It was a really fun experience. (Now, I have the itch for a bottle bat and I know just the NET54 member who has one...just need to save some more dough).
Blessings, Casey
Last edited by Case12; 10-22-2020 at 05:04 PM.
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10-22-2020, 03:59 PM
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