BMH - Cal Ripken 1998

[seven4five20]

Can anyone let me know what model and finishes Cal Ripken Jr. ordered in 1998? Thanks in advance and I look forward to any feedback.

[MSpecht]

In 1998 Ripken ordered the following Louisville Slugger bats (model and finish):

P72 Black / 35 inches / 33 oz / 105 bats.

All of Cal Jr.'s P72 documented orders for his personal professional use in 1998 were 35 in / 33 oz / Black Finish. Several orders of P72 promo bats (ordered without specified weight) were also ordered in 1998 with Black Finish and Walker Finish. The last documented orders of FT Finish P72 Ripken signature model bats are documented in in 1995 and 1996 (34 inches) and invoiced to Ike Co. Ltd (promo bats).

Note that model P72 was Cal's preferred model during his career. In fact, from 1990 to the end of his career over 98% of the bats he ordered were P72 models, with only a handful of C271 (1991 and 1992) and S188 (1990 and 1999) models.



Mike jackitout7@aol.com

[seven4five20]

Thanks a bunch. Did he ever use P72's with a clear coat? Thanks again in advance

[MSpecht]

P72 models with Natural, or Regular, Finish are documented in 1981, 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1999. There are also orders throughout his career for No Finish and Flame Burned Finish which may be confused with Natural Finish. Also, in the case of Ripken Bats, Many promo bats were produced in a variety of dimensions and finishes --- knowledge of Ripken's specific game used bat characteristics and the provenance of any specific bat are absolutely essential when considering a Ripken gamer.

Mike Jackitout7@aol.com