1963 Tommy John Rookie Cleveland Indians Game-Used & Autographed Road Flannel Jersey
(JSA)
Tommy John’s Historic Cleveland Indians Jersey
A Legendary Career and a Revolutionary Surgery
Tommy John, a name synonymous with resilience and innovation in the world of baseball, enjoyed a remarkable career that spanned 26 seasons and witnessed the leadership of seven U.S. presidents. Known for his exceptional control as a sinkerballer, John made history with a groundbreaking surgery that would forever bear his name. This revolutionary procedure, which involved transplanting a tendon from his right forearm to his left elbow, transformed him into the game’s first “right-handed southpaw.”
The Jersey: A Piece of Baseball History
This Cleveland Indians jersey, a testament to Tommy John’s enduring legacy, is a rare and significant piece of baseball memorabilia. The jersey features the “MacGregor” manufacturer’s size 44 tag in the back inside collar, along with the MacGregor “Set 1 1963” tag inside the front left tail. Adorning the front left chest is the Indians head logo patch, beautifully embroidered in white, red, and navy blue.
- Player Number: The number “37” is prominently displayed in red tackle twill on both the front right chest and back.
- Historical Alteration: Originally, Cleveland wore navy blue numbers in 1963. These numbers were later changed to red, allowing Bob Heffner to wear the jersey in 1966.
- Autograph: The jersey is autographed by Tommy John in blue marker, with the signature rating a 7.
- Game Use: The jersey shows signs of game-use, with no alterations beyond the number change.
Why This Jersey Matters
This jersey is more than just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Tommy John’s indomitable spirit and his contributions to the game. The autograph is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, further enhancing its value and appeal to collectors. As a part of our exclusive sports memorabilia auctions, this jersey offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
For those looking to expand their baseball collection, this jersey represents a significant addition, capturing a pivotal moment in the sport’s evolution. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this artifact is a testament to the enduring legacy of Tommy John and the transformative impact of his career on Major League Baseball.
Explore more about our game-worn items for sale and discover the stories behind each piece. Join us in celebrating the rich history of baseball and the legends who have shaped the game.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.