1974 Al Kaline Game-Used Hillerich & Bradsby Louisville Slugger Professional Model Bat – MEARS A10 – Elite Hall of Fame Gamer (Greenshields Collection)

Presented here is an exceptional Al Kaline game-used Hillerich & Bradsby Louisville Slugger professional model bat dating to the 1974 MLB season, authenticated and graded MEARS A10 — the highest grade awarded by MEARS and a designation rarely achieved by professional model bats. Comparable top-grade Al Kaline game-used bats have realized significant five-figure results at public auction, underscoring the exceptional rarity and desirability of elite Hall of Fame examples of this caliber.

One of the most respected and consistent players in baseball history, Al Kaline spent his entire 22-year Hall of Fame career with the Detroit Tigers. Nicknamed “Mr. Tiger,” Kaline was an 18-time All-Star, 10-time Gold Glove winner, 1968 World Series champion, and member of the exclusive 3,000-hit club. High-grade Kaline game-used bats remain particularly desirable among advanced Detroit Tigers, Hall of Fame, and professional model bat collectors due to the relative scarcity of elite-condition examples.

This bat is a Louisville Slugger M110 signature model manufactured during the 1973–75 labeling period and matches factory specifications and player traits consistent with Kaline’s documented professional use during the 1974 season.

MEARS assigned the bat its coveted A10 grade after confirming extensive game-use characteristics and multiple positive player traits.

Key characteristics noted by MEARS include:
Heavy game use throughout
Heavy ball marks visible on barrel
Correct uniform number “6” on knob end
Heavy pine tar handle preparation
Factory records match confirmed
Professional player characteristics consistent with Al Kaline use
34.5" length / 31 oz specifications
Flame-treated finish

The bat displays exceptional overall eye appeal with substantial visible use and strong evidence of professional on-field service from the later years of Kaline’s legendary Hall of Fame career.

Authentication & Provenance
MEARS Letter of Opinion – Final Grade: A10
MEARS Certification Number: 323841

This piece originates from the esteemed Greenshields Collection, a significant and carefully assembled lifetime baseball memorabilia collection built over decades. The collection features signed memorabilia, game-used equipment, and historic baseball collectibles, with items noted for their quality, consistency, and strong collector appeal.

Condition
Outstanding professional game-used condition with heavy visible use characteristics throughout the barrel and handle areas. Numerous ball marks, surface wear, and professional handling patterns remain evident throughout. Knob end retains Kaline’s uniform number notation “6,” further supporting player attribution and professional use.

Details
Player: Al Kaline
Team Era: Detroit Tigers, 1974 Season
Manufacturer: Hillerich & Bradsby / Louisville Slugger
Model: M110 Professional Model
Length: 34.5"
Weight: 31 oz
Wood: Ash
Finish: Flame Treated
Game Use Authentication: MEARS A10
MEARS Certification Number: 323841
Provenance: Greenshields Collection