Lot # 3: 1930 Hank Greenberg Detroit Tigers True Rookie Sidewritten Game- Used Bat (PSA/DNA GU 8 • The Earliest Known Greenberg! • Hobby Fresh)

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The beginning of one of the greatest power hitting careers of all time. A prodigious home run hitter, Greenberg narrowly missed breaking Babe Ruth's single-season home run record in 1938, when he hit 58 home runs, leading the league for the second time - he even had one discounted from a rainout. He was the first player in history to win MVP at two different positions. Greenberg lost some valuable time to service in WWII. Upon his physical, he was originally classified and recommended for “light service” due to flat feet. After some media blowback likening this to fighter Jack Dempsey in WWI, the mensch that he was, he requested to be reexamined, ultimately being reclassified serving as an anti-tank gunner and sergeant, eventually receiving honorable discharge on December 5th, 1941 - two days before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. During a game in 1947 against the Brooklyn Dodgers, he collided with Robinson while covering first base. Afterwards, Greenberg asked if Robinson was alright and encouraged him to "Stick in there. You’re doing fine. Keep your chin up." Robinson later praised Greenberg, saying, "Class tells. It sticks out all over Mr. Greenberg." Greenberg was one of the only players to welcome the culture shift, because he unfortunately went through similar hostilities to Jackie when he was coming up. This is a Hillerich & Bradsby Hank Greenberg professional model bat, measuring 36” x 28.2oz. Evidence of outstanding use with a handle crack. Left barrel checking has been repaired. Many ball marks are visible on the left and back barrel. Cleat marks can be seen on the front, right and left barrel. The factory “grease pencil” side writing on the right barrel is no longer legible. Accompanied by a full PSA LOA, grading the bat GU 8. Wow.