1981 Ozzie Smith SD Padres Game-Used & Autographed Uniform
(2)(Photo-Matched)
Ozzie Smith’s Game-Worn Padres Uniform: A Testament to Baseball Excellence
The Wizard of the Diamond
Ozzie Smith, affectionately known as “The Wizard,” is celebrated for his unparalleled defensive prowess on the baseball field. With a career that set major league records for assists (8,375) and double plays (1,590) by a shortstop, Smith’s legacy is etched in the annals of baseball history. His remarkable achievements include an NL record of 2,511 career games at shortstop and an impressive streak of 13 consecutive NL Gold Glove Awards. A 15-time All-Star, Smith’s career was further immortalized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002, his first year of eligibility.
A Uniform with Historical Significance
This extraordinary piece of baseball memorabilia is a brown knit uniform that Ozzie Smith wore during his time with the San Diego Padres. The front left tail of the jersey features a strip tag with “1 81” chain-stitched in white, while the team name “padres” is elegantly arched across the chest. The player number “1” is prominently displayed on the back, both crafted in yellow on orange tackle twill. Smith’s name is emblazoned in yellow tackle twill on a brown nameplate across the back, adding to the jersey’s authenticity and charm.
- Iconic Player: Represents Ozzie Smith, a Hall of Famer and defensive legend.
- Historical Significance: Worn during Smith’s tenure with the Padres, a pivotal period in his career.
- Unique Provenance: Accompanied by a letter from Sports Investors, confirming its photo match to Smith’s 1982 Topps baseball card.
- Condition and Story: Presented to us as game-used and showing excellent wear, adding to its allure.
Additional Features of the Uniform
The uniform is complemented by white knit pants, featuring a Wilson label with a custom size 29 stitched in black. A white strip tag with “1 80 26” is also present, further authenticating the piece. Smith has signed both the jersey and the pants in black marker, with the signatures rated a 9 in our opinion, enhancing the uniform’s value and desirability.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
This uniform is not just a piece of fabric; it is a testament to Ozzie Smith’s enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the game of baseball. It is accompanied by a JSA ALOA, ensuring its authenticity and significance. For collectors and enthusiasts, this uniform represents a rare opportunity to own a fragment of baseball history, a symbol of Smith’s excellence and the era he dominated.
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* This text was generated from the original auction listing.