Need help - Pete Rose bat, model R79

[tacprc]

I have an unusual Pete Rose bat: large label Louisville Slugger; Hornsby finish; model R79, 33.5 inches long.

See attached pictures: barrel top, barrel bottom, barrel bottom where there is some deadwood, barrel end, center top, center bottom, handle, knob.

The H&B shipping records for Rose do not list this model -- for any year.

I don't have a scale, but the weight seems to be similar to my five other Pete Rose Louisville Slugger bats from the 1979-86 period. Perhaps this R79 is a bit lighter, and perhaps the quality of the wood is a bit less.

I am thinking this R79 may be a store model bat and, furthermore, may have been sold in 1979 -- the year after Rose reached 3000 hits and achieved his 44-game hitting streak.

Does anyone have any good insights?

Has anyone seen an R79 bat for another player (under H&B contract) that typically did not use this model?

Thanks for your help. Chuck

[ironmanfan]

The labeling is 1980-83.......Most likely a team index bat

[cincy13]

I think he used mostly mizuno bats during the eighties.

[tacprc]

Anyone have any other thoughts? Thanks. Chuck

[entitled_nitwits]

Anyone have any other thoughts? Thanks. Chuck

Only worthwhile comment I can add is that "14" on the knob is not written in Pete's hand. That and $3.50 will get you an overpriced Cafe Latte at Starbuck's.