1968-1969 Curt Flood St. Louis Cardinals Game-Used & Autographed Home Flannel Uniform
(2) (JSA)
Curt Flood’s 1968 Game-Worn Jersey: A Testament to Baseball History
A Legendary Career on the Field
Curt Flood, a name synonymous with excellence in baseball memorabilia, was a defensive powerhouse who left an indelible mark on the sport. His prowess in the outfield is evidenced by his leading the National League in putouts four times and achieving the highest fielding percentage twice. Flood’s remarkable career was further highlighted by his seven consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1963 to 1969. Not only a defensive stalwart, Flood also excelled at the plate, batting over .300 six times and leading the NL with 211 hits in 1964. Upon his retirement, he held the third-most games played in center field in NL history, a testament to his enduring impact on the game.
A Pivotal Figure in Baseball’s Labor Movement
Beyond his on-field achievements, Curt Flood became a pivotal figure in baseball’s labor history. Following the 1969 season, he made the bold decision to refuse a trade, challenging the sport’s reserve clause. His case ultimately reached the U.S. Supreme Court, and although unsuccessful, it galvanized players in their fight for free agency, forever altering the landscape of professional baseball.
The Iconic 1968 Game-Worn Jersey
This extraordinary jersey, presented to us as game-used, is a rare artifact from Flood’s illustrious career. The jersey features the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s size 38 tag, with a “Set 1 1968” flag tag, and “Flood 68” chain-stitched directly on the garment. The iconic “Cardinals” script adorns the front, with a gold embroidered bat and perched Cardinals, while the player number “21” and name “FLOOD” are emblazoned in red on navy blue felt. The left sleeve proudly displays the MLB “100th Anniversary” patch, adding historical significance to this remarkable piece.
- Historical Significance: Possible 1968 World Series jersey carried over to the following season.
- Player Legacy: Represents Curt Flood, a trailblazer in baseball’s labor movement.
- Authenticity: Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA.
- Condition: The uniform shows game-use and appears to have no alterations of any kind.
A Collector’s Dream
This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Curt Flood’s enduring legacy and his fight for players’ rights. The autograph on the front, rated an 8, further enhances its value and appeal to collectors. For those looking to consign baseball jerseys or explore more appraisals of sports memorabilia, this jersey represents an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of baseball history.
As you consider adding this exceptional jersey to your collection, remember that it embodies not only the athletic prowess of Curt Flood but also his courage and determination to challenge the status quo. This jersey is a testament to a player who changed the game both on and off the field, making it a must-have for any serious collector of sports memorabilia.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.