1976 Frank Robinson Cleveland Indians Player/Manager Game-Used & Signed Alternate Jersey
(Graded 10 • JSA)
Frank Robinson’s Historic 1976 Cleveland Indians Jersey
A Legendary Career
Frank Robinson, a name synonymous with baseball greatness, stands tall in the annals of Major League Baseball history. As a member of the prestigious “500 Home Run” club, Robinson’s career was marked by extraordinary achievements, including 586 home runs and two World Series Championships. He remains the only player to have been named MVP in both the National and American Leagues, a testament to his unparalleled skill and versatility. His MVP accolades came in 1961 with the Cincinnati Reds and in 1966 with the Baltimore Orioles, where he also clinched the coveted Triple Crown.
Pioneering Managerial Role
In 1975, Robinson broke new ground by becoming the first black manager in Major League Baseball, serving as a player/manager for the Cleveland Indians. This historic role not only highlighted his leadership abilities but also paved the way for future generations of African American managers in the sport.
The 1976 Cleveland Indians Jersey
This remarkable jersey, worn by Frank Robinson during his tenure with the Cleveland Indians, is a piece of baseball memorabilia that captures a pivotal moment in sports history. The jersey features the Wilson manufacturer’s tag, size “42,” with washing instructions, and a box tag on the front left tail indicating the year “76.” The left sleeve proudly displays the Indians team logo patch, while the right sleeve bears the “CLEVELAND SPIRIT OF ‘76” patch.
- Team Name and Number: The chest reads “INDIANS” and the back showcases the player/manager number “20,” both in white on navy blue tackle twill.
- Player’s Name: “ROBINSON” is elegantly sewn across the back in white tackle twill.
- Signatures: Robinson’s autograph graces both the front and back of the jersey, with a combined rating of 9 in our expert opinion.
Authenticity and Provenance
This jersey is properly tagged and was presented to us as game-used, showing appropriate use. It is accompanied by a PM&G LOA grading the jersey a perfect 10, along with a LOA from JSA, further attesting to its authenticity and significance.
Why This Jersey Matters
This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a testament to Frank Robinson’s enduring legacy and his groundbreaking contributions to baseball. It represents a moment in time when barriers were broken, and history was made. For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey is an invaluable addition to any sports memorabilia collection, offering a tangible connection to one of baseball’s most iconic figures.
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* This text was generated from the original auction listing.