“Going Yard” Bat Blog

Get ready, vintage baseball bat fans, Major League Baseball is taking steps to make sure that our favorite relics are the real deal. Whether they’re hanging in the Hall of Fame or up for auction to hang in our display cases, the new authentication program is designed to be sure that every prized item is legitimate. It’s not just vintage bats and game-used bats. Balls and bases, uniforms, even sometimes the dirt on the field, is being rigorously monitored. Over the last few years we’ve noticed how extreme fraud has become, so for the serious collector, this new program will be very welcome news.

Yesterday Grandpa Bud opened his attic, to the delight of fans of classic baseball and vintage bats. No, this isn’t Bud Selig’s latest publicity stunt, it’s a new feature of the newly re-opened Louisville Slugger Museum.

Grandpa Bud’s Attic, named for company founder Bud Hillerich, has one-of-a-kind relics like original player contracts from the early days of Louisville Slugger. Grandpa Bud’s Attic isn’t the only hit of their 125th anniversary celebration; visitors can also take part in Hold a Piece of History and hold bats used by Hall of Famers Rod Carew and Mickey Mantle.

All in all, it sounds like the museum, already an incredible collection of baseball history, is solidifying itself as a must-visit for baseball fans. My last visit was about five years ago—I think it’s time to head back.