From the late 1920s to the beginning of World War II, there were few sights more dangerous to a pitcher’s health than Jimmie Foxx standing in the batter’s box with a bat in his hands. At six feet tall, he was no giant but every inch of it was muscle. When he connected, the ball became a sizzling projectile.
Now, one of those giant sticks with his name burned in the barrel—a 38.9 ounce war club with family provenance—is coming to auction. The Consignment of the Week from Heritage Auctions, it will be among the featured attractions in the company’s Platinum Night sale which is set for February 24 and 25.
Dated to 1934 by PSA/DNA through the center brand and weight, the bat shows significant game use with ball marks, grain checking, green streaks from the bat rack and a repaired crack in the handle. Joining the PSA/DNA documentation 
is a signed and notarized letter from Foxx’ cousin who attests that the bat has remained in her family since it was shipped to the Hall of Fame slugger from Louisville. The bat is expected to sell for at least $50,000.
Fox was coming off back-to-back American League MVP Awards and had won the Triple Crown in 1933. In the ’34 season, he was no slouch, batting .334 with 44 homers and 130 RBI. From 1929-1940, he hit 30 or more home runs in every season.
Auction officials say it’s possible the bat may have also been used by Foxx in the 1934 tour of Japan that commenced after the season.
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