Description
Hillerich & Bradsby model R161 was used by Jim Rice in batting practice the day before the 1978 All Star Game in San Diego. The bat shows tremendous use and is not cracked. Many ball marks and seam impressions are visible on the right, left, and back barrel surface. There is grain swelling from repeated contact on the right barrel surface and a bit of separation on the back barrel as well. The handle shows no evidence of pine tar and is not cracked. Rice has placed a large vintage autograph on the left barrel in blue marker. Nothing is written on either the knob or barrel end.
The bat is accompanied by a letter of provenance from the son of the gentleman who originally acquired this bat (and the Fred Lynn) while in attendance at the 1978 All Star Game. The BP session of the 1978 game is said to have been the precursor of what would eventually become the All Star Game “Home Run Derby” that we know and love today.
Rice was named Most Valuable Player for his efforts during the 1978 season.
