An outstanding game used bat from the Hall of Famer who was the essence of what a catcher should be. Stats don't do justice to Bench, good as his were (such as 389 HRs). It was the perfection he brought to the down and dirty position, and his clutch-hitting prowess. His Louisville Slugger B278 used in 1979 exhibits strong game use up and down. Many ballmarks around the barrel attest to the power in his swing. Pine tarred handle with his number "5" written in black marker on the knob. Bought directly from the Reds team store in 1979 and comes with its original Cincinnati Reds COA.