Hall of Fame Induction Bats
Almost every July, the baseball world turns its collective attention to Cooperstown, New York, for the Hall of Fame induction ceremony. It is then that the immortal stars of yesteryear convene to welcome in their newest members and to share stories of their glory days in the sun. Throngs gather to attend the public events, try to get a glimpse of their baseball heroes (and maybe snag an autograph), and soak up the atmosphere that is unique to Cooperstown.
Over the years, Cooperstown has become a hallowed place for many, and throughout the baseball world many items have been created to also celebrate the chosen masters of the diamond. Some years ago the Hall of Fame began making available commemorative bats for each inductee “class.” These 34-inch bats were crafted by Louisville Slugger, similar in design to that company’s popular black bats celebrating World Series participants, except that Hall of Fame commemorative bats are all produced with a dark cherry color finish with the logos, names and Limited Edition number being stamped in gold. From the onset, only 500 serialized bats were produced each year until 1990 when the number increased to 1000 (it increased again to 1500 by 1999).
These are beautiful items and make a stunning display in a bat case or just leaning in the corner of a baseball room. Genuinely limited by the number made each year, these beauties are more difficult to store than a baseball card, but they are a unique piece when added to any serious baseball collection.
