The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory is set to hold its 23rd annual live auction, offering baseball enthusiasts a chance to view and bid on some of the sport’s most treasured artifacts. The event, which will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, features a mix of historic jerseys, bats, rings and other memorabilia, all displayed at the museum for public viewing.
Star‑studded items expected to fetch six‑figure sums
Among the most coveted pieces is a 1924 Babe Ruth “insurance bat.” Museum representative Andrew Soliday noted the bat weighs 39 ounces—about seven ounces heavier than modern bats—adding to its rarity. The bat is expected to sell for between $100,000 and $300,000.
Also drawing significant attention is a 1973 Atlanta Braves jersey worn by Hank Aaron as he closed in on Ruth’s home‑run record. “He wore [it] when he hit his 700th home run,” Soliday said. This jersey carries a similar six‑figure estimate.
More memorabilia for collectors of all budgets
Not every item carries a six‑figure price tag. A champagne bottle signed by Cincinnati Reds legend Johnny Bench during the team’s 1975‑76 World Series‑winning seasons is expected to sell for $500, offering a more affordable entry point for fans.
The auction is anchored by the personal collection of former second baseman Joe Morgan, a key figure in the “Big Red Machine” that captured back‑to‑back championships. “With this collection, you really do get a glimpse into this player’s career. Literally, it’s all in front of you for the most part. And you have everything from MVP trophies to his passport,” Soliday explained.
One standout piece from Morgan’s collection is a Babe Ruth “Sultan of Swat” award presented to Morgan in the 1990s. Engraved with Ruth’s statistics and set with six gemstones, the award is expected to fetch between $20,000 and $40,000.
How to participate
Online bidding is already underway, and anyone interested can place bids through the museum’s website. Visitors are also welcome to view the items on display at the museum without placing a bid, making the auction both a competitive event and a public exhibition of baseball history.
The Louisville Slugger Museum continues its tradition of celebrating America’s pastime while providing a unique opportunity for collectors, fans and the local community to engage with the sport’s heritage.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
