This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/9/2010.
The most celebrated athlete of his generation, Babe Ruth's fame extends far beyond the game of baseball, a true legend. Ruth exemplified the ultimate in sportsmanship and athleticism, and was a hero of mythic proportions to youngsters and adults from all walks of life. A star from the start, pitching in his first World Series game in 1916 for the Red Sox, Ruth pitched the longest complete game in World Series history, 14 innings (13 of them scoreless). Ruth was sold to the Yankees in 1919 in the most infamous trade in baseball history - owner Harry Frazee received $125,000 and a $350,000 loan to finance his Broadway dreams. The Red Sox did not win another World Series until 2004, having won five World Series in the 19 year history of the American League up to that time. In his first season as a Yankee (1920), Ruth belted a whopping 54 home runs, far surpassing his own record of 29. The "Sultan of Swat" went on hit 60 homers in 1927, a feat not surpassed until 1961. He averaged over 50 homers a season from 1926 to 1931, hitting a home run on average once every 12 plate appearances. Everything about the man was larger than life, both on and off the field. His grand achievements on the diamond were equaled by his legendary appetite and ego outside the stadium. He was equally adept at spending hours and hours with needy children as he was belting a baseball hundreds of feet over the fence. He was among the first five players inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1936. This Reach OAL Harridge baseball has been single-signed in black fountain pen on the sweet spot by the one and only Babe Ruth. The League and President's stamps are light but clearly legible. The ball has a soft glow to it and is in fantastic condition with only a few nicks on the bottom panel. Ruth's signature fills the entire sweet spot and grades a very strong 8 to 9. A great Ruth ball that will highlight any collection. Accompanied by a LOA from JSA.