1966 Dennis Ribant NY Mets Game-Used Road Flannel Re-Issued To & Worn by Nolan Ryan in 1967 & S.T. 1968 During His Rookie Campaign

The Historic 1966 Dennis Ribant New York Mets Jersey

A Journey Through Baseball History

This road grey flannel jersey, worn by Dennis Ribant of the New York Mets in 1966, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of baseball history. Its journey from the field to the auction block is a narrative filled with intrigue and significance. The jersey’s story begins in the 1966 season, a pivotal year for the Mets, and extends into the era of one of baseball’s most legendary pitchers, Nolan Ryan.

Nolan Ryan’s Connection

In August 1967, a New York Times article announced the recall of 13 farmhands by the Mets, including the young Nolan Ryan. Throughout September 1967, Ryan was listed on scorecards as wearing number 30, a number that was not originally assigned to him. This suggests that the Mets, known for recycling jerseys, may have repurposed Ribant’s jersey for Ryan. The similarities in height and weight between Ribant and Ryan further support this theory.

Adding to the intrigue, a photograph from March 16, 1968, during Mets spring training, appears to show Ryan wearing this very jersey. Although previous examinations could not definitively confirm a photomatch, the evidence strongly suggests its authenticity.

Jersey Details and Provenance

The jersey is accompanied by a detailed five-page letter from Dave Grob, graded A8.5, which delves into its storied past. Key features of the jersey include:

• Manufacturer’s Tag: “Wilson” tag with wash instructions and size “40”.
• Flag Tags: “SET 1” and “66” attached.
• Strip Tag: “30-40” embroidered in navy blue chain stitch, indicating jersey number and size.
• Design: “NEW YORK” across the front, with number “30” on both front and back, in blue on orange felt.
• Team Patch: Embroidered disc patch on the left sleeve.

The jersey shows signs of game-use and remains unaltered, preserving its historical integrity. We originally sold this jersey to our consignor two decades ago as a Dennis Ribant jersey, hinting at its potential connection to Nolan Ryan. The evolution of the hobby over the years has only enhanced the allure of this remarkable piece.

Why This Jersey Matters

This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a fragment of baseball history. It represents the early career of Nolan Ryan, a Hall of Famer and one of the most celebrated pitchers in MLB history. The jersey’s journey from Ribant to Ryan encapsulates the Mets’ resourcefulness and the dynamic nature of baseball memorabilia.

For those interested in acquiring a piece of this history, explore our baseball memorabilia auctions for more exceptional items. If you have your own piece of history, consider our consignment services to share it with the world. For appraisals, our experts are ready to assist you in evaluating your MLB memorabilia.

Embrace the legacy of the game with this extraordinary jersey, a symbol of the enduring spirit and history of baseball.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.