Can you guys help me with some questions?

[ipspecialist]

Just have some questions about this Cal Ripken bat that my friend won off ebay. I know that usually the '125' on the LS means that it was either a show bat or maybe store model? The bat in question is here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/290931556214...84.m1439.l2649

Does this seem like it may have been game used or used at all by Cal? I see the '8' on the knob but not sure if this is how Cal would have written his 8 there or not, also appears to have some cleat marks along the bat but just not sure at all what this bat could be.

Thanks for any help!

[maverick14]

The 125 doesn't mean that it's a store model however the line underneath the 125 does.

[coxfan]

I know very little about bats, but a general point I've noticed is that clubhouse attendants, usually doubling as bat boys, typically write the numbers for the players on the end of the knobs. I could be wrong, but I think MLB players often have bats that are cupped on the end, whereas bats not intended for game use typically aren't cupped.

[SSB15]

The line under 125 means Ripken did not use it.

[metsbats]

I know very little about bats, but a general point I've noticed is that clubhouse attendants, usually doubling as bat boys, typically write the numbers for the players on the end of the knobs. I could be wrong, but I think MLB players often have bats that are cupped on the end, whereas bats not intended for game use typically aren't cupped.

Players can order bats for use cupped or un-cupped. It's a personal preference.

I think what you are alluding to is that store model bats typically are not cupped.

[metsbats]

Seller listed another Ripken (or is it the same bat relisted?). From the photos of the center labeling looks like someone attempted to blacken it out.

[metsbats]

I was interested in the R221 Piazza. The seller indicated it has a underline beneath the "125" and it's a show bat too.