Long-time WPW fan Tommy Joseph has hit his way into the starting 1B role for the Phillies, supplanting Philly hero and one of this century’s most productive hitters, Ryan Howard. Not an easy task for anybody. Joseph tells WPW the tools he’s using for the job:
The Old Hickory TJ162 is the J143M with a thickened top hand. Great balance along with a good sized barrel. Similar to the well known model 243.
The B45 (Birch) RK23 is a relative of the i13. They have a lot of similarities with the small taper and the long barrel.
Joseph’s B45 Birch RK23 is available. Birch wood is somewhat of a hybrid of Maple and Ash, with surface hardness close to that of Maple bats, but an increased flexibility similar to that of an Ash bat. Joseph said he’s been swinging it since Spring Training, and has gotten some ABs with the Old Hick Maple as well.
While we’re at it, here are some other items Joseph sent over:
Mizuno Global Elite BG’s (link takes you to Google where limited quantities can be tracked down).
The Jordan 4 cleats. Only available in white from Nike or black and blue from Eastbay.
The Huarache Pro lows… best place to go for these are eBay.
…and the Nike MVP Elite 3/4, another eBay option by the plenty.