1979 Willie Stargell Game-Used Hillerich & Bradsby Louisville Slugger Professional Model Bat – MEARS A8 (Greenshields Collection)

Presented here is a desirable Willie Stargell game-used Hillerich & Bradsby Louisville Slugger professional model bat dating to the 1979 MLB season, authenticated and graded MEARS A8.

One of the most feared power hitters of his generation, Willie Stargell captained the Pittsburgh Pirates during their legendary “We Are Family” championship era and remains one of the franchise’s most iconic players. A Hall of Famer and seven-time All-Star, Stargell captured both National League MVP and World Series MVP honors during the Pirates’ 1979 championship season, making gamers from this period especially sought after by advanced collectors.

This bat is a Louisville Slugger K44 professional model matching factory specifications and records for Stargell’s late-career professional use during the 1977–1979 labeling period.

MEARS assigned the bat a strong A8 grade after confirming significant professional game-use characteristics and factory-record consistency.

Key characteristics noted by MEARS include:
Heavy game use throughout
Heavy ball marks
Deeply embedded stitch marks
Original taped handle preparation
Factory records match confirmed
Uncracked handle condition
35" length / 33 oz specifications

The bat displays outstanding visual appeal, featuring Stargell’s signature dark finish and heavily taped handle style commonly associated with his professional model bats from the late 1970s.

Authentication & Provenance
MEARS Letter of Opinion – Final Grade: A8
MEARS Certification Number: 323837

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
Excellent professional game-used condition with heavy visible use characteristics throughout the barrel and hitting surface. The bat exhibits heavy ball marks, deeply embedded stitch impressions, surface wear, and taped handle preparation consistent with professional on-field use. Handle remains uncracked.

Details
Player: Willie Stargell
Team Era: Pittsburgh Pirates, 1979 Season
Manufacturer: Hillerich & Bradsby / Louisville Slugger
Model: K44 Professional Model
Length: 35"
Weight: 33 oz
Wood: Ash
Finish: Hickory
Game Use Authentication: MEARS A8
MEARS Certification Number: 323837
Provenance: Greenshields Collection