Despite his long list of impressive career accolades and lasting impact on America’s Pastime, the late Frank Robinson remains one of the more underrated and underappreciated Hall of Famers. A member of the 500 Home Run Club with 586 career dingers, Robinson holds the distinction of being the only player ever to win MVP honors in both leagues – 1961 with the Cincinnati Reds and 1966 with the Baltimore Orioles when he also won the Triple Crown. Robinson made more history in 1975 by becoming MLB’s first African American manager. His playing career lasted through ‘76 as he served the final two years with the noble “player/manager” tag. Starting in 1977, Frank focused strictly on being a manager and coach for 20 more seasons with four different franchises, concluding his baseball career as honorary president of the American League.

Offered here is a high-grade Frank Robinson game-used bat dating to his 1973-75 era with the California Angels and Cleveland Indians. The pounded Hillerich & Bradsby ‘R182’ professional model ash bat, measuring 35" long and weighing 33.4 ounces, remains un-cracked with outstanding use. Ball marks and stitch impressions cover the barrel. There is a light coat of pine tar on the mid-handle and blue bat rack streaks are visible on all sides. Robinson's uniform number ("20") is written on the knob in faded black marker over the “R182” model stamp. On the front barrel, Robinson has signed in bold 9/10 black marker with “N.L. MVP 1961” and “A.L. MVP 1966” inscribed. Includes two LOAs from PSA/DNA, one from bat expert John Taube grading it a near-perfect GU 9.5 and another for the autograph and inscriptions.