Autographed + Game Used Balls/Bats Question

Rainman

To break up my collection (which is mainly: old/unopened wax packs, PSA 9s/10s RCs, autos, raw RCs, and a few game used of my favorite players), I'm looking to add autographed and/or game used balls and bats. The players I would like are: Maddux, McGwire, and Palmeiro (to start w/).

What companies should I look for to find an authentic ball/bat?
What companies should I avoid?
Recommendations for reasonable/honest EBay sellers?

BigKidAtHeart

<< <i>What companies should I look for to find an authentic ball/bat? >>

PSA/DNA, Steiner, Upper Deck, Tristar

Stone193

Rainman
Those are top notch recomm.'s from Big Kid. May I add that I just purchased from Coach's corner auction an GU auto Palmeiro bat w/good use which is authen. by ASI who puts a hologram similar to UD;my understanding is they represent these players and get the bats from them directly - I got a great Guererro bat same way and just missed an A. Jones bat due to my computer locking up. Coach's corner has also gotten me good prices - under $300 for both bats.
Mike

1420sports

zanebats on eBay is also a good one. I have talked to several people in the hobby who recommend him. I am sure that you will see more than you can imagine in the upcoming Mastro auction, which I hope is viewable soon.

Rainman

You have a Raffy bat Mike? I'm jealous. 1 of these days a Raffy bat and ball will be mine. If only a CA team had signed him so I'd have a better chance at getting an auto in person

1420sports

Rainman, if your name is Ray you might like this ....

Palmeiro bat

Rainman

if only my name were ray