1955 Pittsburgh Pirates Team-Signed Baseball With Roberto Clemente Rookie
(PSA NM-MT 8 • Vern Law Collection)
A Glimpse into Baseball History: The 1955 Pittsburgh Pirates Team-Signed Baseball
An Iconic Collection of Signatures
Step into the rich tapestry of baseball history with the 1955 Pittsburgh Pirates team-signed baseball, a remarkable artifact that captures the essence of a transformative era in Major League Baseball. This exquisite piece is a Spalding Official National League Ball (Giles), adorned with the autographs of twenty-five players, including the legendary rookie signature of Hall of Fame right fielder, Roberto Clemente. The signatures, elegantly inscribed in blue ballpoint ink, are a testament to the enduring legacy of these baseball icons.
Roberto Clemente: A Legend in the Making
Among the illustrious signatures, the name “Bob Clemente” stands out, marking the early days of a career that would become legendary. Roberto Clemente, who signed on a side panel, began his journey with the Pirates in 1955, batting .255 in his rookie season. Despite the team’s challenging record of 60-94 that year, Clemente’s presence signaled the dawn of a new era for the Pirates. His career, tragically cut short, saw him achieve exactly 3,000 hits, a .317 batting average, 12 Gold Gloves, and two World Series championships, all with Pittsburgh.
A Team on the Rise
The 1955 Pittsburgh Pirates, under the guidance of manager Fred Haney, were in the midst of a rebuilding phase. General manager Branch Rickey was meticulously crafting a team that would eventually clinch the 1960 World Series. This baseball, bearing the signatures of players like Dick Groat, Elroy Face, Bob Friend, and Dale Long, is a snapshot of a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history.
- Historical Significance: Features the rookie signature of Roberto Clemente, a Hall of Fame legend.
- Team Legacy: Represents a team that laid the foundation for future success, culminating in the 1960 World Series victory.
- Authenticity: Accompanied by a PSA/DNA Letter of Grading and Authenticity, with an overall grade of 8.
Preserving Baseball Heritage
This team-signed baseball is not merely a collection of autographs; it is a piece of baseball heritage, a tangible connection to the past. The ball’s PSA Overall Grade of 8, with an Autographs Grade of 8 and a Baseball Grade of 7, underscores its exceptional condition and authenticity. For collectors and enthusiasts, this baseball is a rare opportunity to own a fragment of sports history.
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* This text was generated from the original auction listing.