Pete Rose Game Used Bat 65-68 or 70-72 Labeling

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I am new to collecting game used material, but had picked up a few items here and there in the past. My collection is primarily focused on the Reds. Several years ago I picked up a nice Pete Rose Games Used in Auction. Item came with 2 LOAs. One indicating the labeling period was 1965-68, the other indicating a labeling period 1970-72. Pete Rose first ordered S222 Bats on 4-29-70. The general consensus is that bats manufactured during 1965-68 did not have the cross over of the lower loop of the "P" in Poweized while in 1969-72 it does crossover. There is no crossover in the Rose example. However, in Vince's book, page 37, Example 18, is an example of a Powerized Variation from the 1964 to 1972 Period. I am trying to develop a better understanding of when the Rose Bat may have been manufactured and appreciate anyone's thoughts on the issue. A photo is attached.

[MSpecht]

Using Vince's book as a reference point, this bat appears to have C-20 centerbrand (1969-72) in combination with P-10 Powerized (1964-72) which would put the labeling combination in the date range 1969-72. Looking at Rose's documented H & B records, which document his first order of S222 on 4/29/70, then the date range is calculated as 4/29/70 to 10/10/72 (last order of S222 prior to WS.) The bat dimensions will limit the probable date of manufacture a bit more, as follows:

Between 4/29/70 and 4/5/72, 27 out of 29 orders of S222 were 36 inches in length. Only wo orders were 35 inches. Weights were 33 oz to 35 oz during this period.

Between 4/28/72 and 10/10/72, 9 out of 10 orders of S222 were 35 inches in length. One order on 6/6/72 was 34 inches in length.

If you look closely at the knob, it may be possible to see the bats weight at the time of manufacture written in small numbers on the knob. That weight may also help to focus in on the manufacture date, especially if it is either 33 1/2 or 34 1/2.

To sum up >>

if the bat is 34 inches in length, it is part of a single order dated 6/6/72.

If the bat is 35 inches in length, then it was manufactured between 4/3/72 and 10/10/72.

If the bat is 36 inches in length, the overwhelming probablilty is that it was manufactured between 4/29/70 and 2/1/72 (approx 232 bats of S222 / 36 in during that period were manufactured vs. 12 bats afterward).

Good Luck

Mike jackitout7@aol.com

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Mike, thanks for all of the great information. I believe I now know exactly what I have. Mike

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There is writing visible on the knob. It is the number 33 and a fraction that I am unable to make out.

[MSpecht]

If the bat is 36 inches / 33 1/2 oz (per marked weight) then the date range of manufacture would be between 8/13/70 (maybe a bit earlier, the records are difficult to read for a few orders arounf this time) and 7/12/71. If the bat has been double lacquered, then it is likely from one of two orders dated 5/14/71 or 6/25/71.

Mike jackitout7@aol.com (jackitout7@aol.com)