Ripken 84-85

[JETEFAN]

Any chance that a Cal Ripken Jr. 84-85 Blonde L.S. Currently weighing 31.1 ozs. and 35" long be a real gamer. I understand that a bat can lose oz's over the years and this bat is almost 23 years old. What could I look for to determine gamer vs. Promo or Misc.???

Thanks
George

[MSpecht]

Hi George--

Between 1/18/83 and 12/19/85, the overwhelming (most characteristic) orders of 35-inch bats of any model that were shipped directly to Ripken (Balt. Orioles) had either a Hickory Finish or a Walker finish--- The exceptions that were shipped to him were the following orders:
4/25/83 R161 / 35 in / 35 oz / Flame tempered finish / 12 bats
5/24/83 P72 / 35 / 34 / FT / 12 bats
3/23/84 P72 / 35 / 34 / FT / 36 bats
6/20/84 O16 / 35 / 33 / FT / 6 bats
2/15/85 R161 / 35 / 34 / Natural / 18 bats
2/15/85 P72 / 35 / 33 / Nat / 18 bats


Other "blonde" (Natural or FT finish) were shipped to BB Miscell throughout the label period, with a specified weight, which is 'presumptive" as ordered for Ripken's professional use. Additional orders without specified weight were also shipped to BB Miscell, thus are classified as promotional bats.

Ripken bats are found with and without a uniform number, a medium pine tar appliocation, occasionally (rare) with taped handel, cleat marks on the barrel end, consistent in length and weight, with most models being of a thin handle and a barrel further down on the bat (i.e. P72.)

Good Luck

Mike Jackitout7@aol.com