December 9th, 2015 Holiday Catalog Auction (#45)

Lot #234:

1997 George W. Bush Game-Used & Single-Signed Jackie Robinson Day Baseball (JSA • Dave Phillips LOA)

“Rawlings” manufactured OAL Budig baseball. Stamped on the east panel is the “Jackie Robinson 50TH ANNIVERSARY” logo in blue. The ball has been signed on the sweet spot in black ink by former President George W. Bush with the added inscription “Best Wishes”, in our opinion the signature rates a strong 9. The ball shows signs of game-use. Accompanied by a LOA from JSA and an additional LOA from MLB Umpire Dave Phillips.

David Robert Phillips is a retired umpire, first with the American League from 1971-1999, then with both leagues from 2001-2002. Dave had the honor of working four World Series (1976, 1982, 1987—crew chief, and 1993—crew chief) and two All-Star Games (1977 and 1990). Offered here, as Lots #225 through #237, are autographed baseballs which Dave himself personally collected during his tenure as a Major League umpire.