SCP Auctions, Inc.
Timed Auction

FALL 2012 Auction

Wed, Nov 14, 2012 09:00PM EST - Sun, Dec 2, 2012 12:00PM EST
Lot 634

LOU BROCK SIGNED BASE THAT HE STOLE ON AUGUST 29, 1977 TO BREAK TY COBB

Sold for
$18,213.60
Sold Price includes BP

Bid Increments

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"Stealing is the most dramatic moment of the game. The pitcher knows you're going the crowd knows you're going you know you're going. When you succeed it's a great feeling. Nothing upsets the other team as much as a stolen base." - Lou Brock

Recognized as one of the most gifted baserunners in baseball Lou Brock helped to revolutionize the art and science of this element of the game as he totaled 938 stolen bases during his 19-year career. None of those stolen bases were more anticipated and celebrated than Brocks career stolen base number 893 the one that broke Ty Cobbs all-time record. The historic milestone occurred on August 29 1977 at San Diego's Jack Murphy Stadium (then known simply as San Diego Stadium). Brock entered the game one shy of Cobb's record of 892. After tying the record early in the game Brock was on base once again in the seventh inning with a chance to steal. Though the Cardinals were playing in San Diego the fans were rooting for Brock. According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch they chanted "Lou Lou Lou. Go! Go!" Padres pitcher Dave Freisleben threw to first trying to get Brock to stick close to the bag. Freisleben finally threw home and Brock took off. Handily he stole No. 893 setting a new major league baseball record. The game came to a halt as the crowd rose for a standing ovation. The offered base was dug up and ceremoniously presented to Brock. It was a historic moment and even Freisleben who'd given away the stolen base remarked "I kind of got goosebumps" according to the Post-Dispatch.

This historic base is the one Brock stole on August 29 1977 to break Cobbs record. An accompanying photo of Brock holding the base moments after the feat provides an irrefutable photomatch. Dozens of matching soiling and scuff marks are identifiable including a distinct linear cut on the upper left side of the base. The underside of the base bears the marking 893 L.B. 8/29/77 in faded ink that was administered after the game by longtime equipment manager Butch Yatkeman. Brock has added his own verification with a large signature and notation #893 on the top. Brock has also signed the accompanying photo of himself holding the base. This Hall of Fame caliber piece is the ultimate representation of Lou Brocks status as The Sultan of Swipe.

Includes LOA from PSA/DNA (auto.).

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