RZ and MN-Mom;
Please excuse my placement of the SSK information. SSK of Japan has been a sponsor of the Goodwill Series event since 1983.
They only become involved, when we play the Japan National Team. At USC this year on September 2, the game was TV "live" to 40 million in Japan. I do believe that SSK obtained maximum "exposure" from their banners posted at the USC field.
Our total cost in producing this event was $56,000, including the two games in Cooperstown. The income from tickets, programs, Japan TV, SSK does not cover this event.
The SSK bat is a good product and several Major League players are using the maple bat.
As you are aware, the ash bat used in the ML is different from the ash bat sold by retailers and web sites. The ML quality wood is seasoned longer and each billet is selected for the top quality. Maple is similar in the degree of quality.
Top quality maple bats used by the Major League players will sell at team cost of $65.00 plus shipping.
Recently, I purchase 6 pro maple for one of our former American team players Trayvon Robinson. He is now with the Dodgers at Vero Beach. Maple will not chip is is very hard wood. The SSK bat is a 243 model and has a long barrell and thin handle. This is my favorite model and we will send 3 dozen to Australia with our players in December.
Bob Williams