This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/22/2019
Continuing the long tradition of New York immortals that played a starring role in "The House that Ruth Built", shortstop Derek Jeter earned the nicknames “Mr. November” and “Captain Clutch” while enjoying a 20-year career, all with the Yankees. Posting a career .311 batting average with over 3,400 lifetime hits, #9 on the all-time list, Jeter became the captain of the Yankees in 2003 and his presence in the lineup played a pivotal role in the continuing legacy of what is the New York Yankees dynasty, helping secure five World Series Championships while being named to the All-Star game 14 times. It was fortunate that the Yankees had a shot to add Jeter at all, selected #6 in the first round of the 1992 MLB Amateur draft. The top pick that year, Phil Nevin, had a few good seasons but three of the other four players selected ahead of Jeter went on to nothing more than marginal careers while the fourth never made it to the big show at all. The featured game-used bat is one of the most recognized pieces of lumber from the 21st century, a black Louisville Slugger Model 72 stick used by Derek Jeter during the 2002 season. Measuring 34 inches and 32 ounces, the bat is uncracked and shows tremendous game use with ball hit, stitch, and paint transfer marks covering the barrel as well as a healthy layer of remaining pine tar on the handle. Just to the left of the facsimile signature on the barrel is the real McCoy, a stunningly bold silver marker signature that is a virtual twin to the facsimile. A ball-point pen signed letter from Jeter is included, affirming that he did use this bat during the 2002 season. With Jeter a virtual lock to enter the Hall of Fame next year, the opportunity to add this timeless piece to your collection is right now! LOA from John Taube - PSA/DNA with a grade of GU 9 and LOA from Steiner.