2000 Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez Texas Rangers Game-Used & Autographed Mitt
(JSA • PSA/DNA • Esken)
Ivan Rodriguez’s Game-Used Catcher’s Mitt: A Testament to Excellence
A Glove of Legendary Proportions
In the realm of baseball memorabilia, few items capture the essence of a player’s career as profoundly as a game-used catcher’s mitt. This particular mitt, a Wilson model “A2403-1791,” is a remarkable artifact from the illustrious career of Ivan Rodriguez, a player whose name is synonymous with defensive prowess and leadership on the field.
The Hall of Fame Legacy of Ivan Rodriguez
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2017, Ivan Rodriguez, affectionately known as “Pudge,” is celebrated as one of the greatest catchers in Major League Baseball history. Over his storied career, Rodriguez earned an astounding 13 Gold Glove Awards, a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication behind the plate. His influence on the game is immortalized in this catcher’s mitt, which bears the marks of his legendary career.
Distinctive Features of the Mitt
This Wilson catcher’s mitt is not just a piece of equipment; it is a canvas that tells the story of Rodriguez’s career. The mitt shows evidence of excellent use, with moderate wear in the pocket and on the face of the web, indicative of its role in countless games. The thumb loop is embroidered with “MVP-99 IVAN RODRIGUEZ” in vibrant red, while the outside of the web proudly displays “PUDGE” in bold black embroidery. These personalized touches highlight the mitt’s connection to Rodriguez’s MVP season in 1999.
- Model and Tagging: The pinky loop features a Wilson strip tag, with the model “A2403” embroidered in yellow beneath it.
- Signature: Rodriguez’s signature graces the face of the toe in blue ink, though it has faded over time, adding a layer of history to this extraordinary piece.
- Provenance: Presented to us as game-used, this mitt is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA and a PSA/DNA LOA from Dennis Esken.
A Piece of Baseball History
The significance of this mitt extends beyond its physical attributes. It represents a fragment of baseball history, a tangible connection to the career of a player who redefined the catcher position. For collectors and enthusiasts, owning such a piece is an opportunity to hold a part of the game’s legacy.
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* This text was generated from the original auction listing.