1988 Orel Hershiser Babe Ruth Award

The Legendary 1988 Babe Ruth Award: Orel Hershiser’s Unmatched Triumph

A Season for the Ages

In the annals of Major League Baseball, few seasons stand out with the brilliance and dominance that Orel Hershiser displayed in 1988. This year marked a pinnacle in his career, where he not only led the league in wins, innings, and complete games but also etched his name in history with a record 59 consecutive scoreless innings pitched. This remarkable feat broke the previous record held by fellow Dodger Don Drysdale, showcasing Hershiser’s prowess on the mound.

His extraordinary performance earned him the prestigious Cy Young Award, a testament to his 23–8 record and 2.26 ERA. Hershiser’s excellence extended beyond the regular season, as he played a pivotal role in the Dodgers’ postseason success, culminating in a World Series victory.

Postseason Brilliance

Hershiser’s postseason heroics were nothing short of legendary. In the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets, he not only started Games 1 and 3 but also recorded the final out in Game 4 for a save, and pitched a shutout in Game 7, earning the series MVP honors. His dominance continued in the World Series, where he pitched a shutout in Game 2 and allowed just two runs in a complete game victory in Game 5, securing the World Series MVP Award.

• Unprecedented Achievement: Hershiser is the only player to win the Cy Young Award, the Championship Series MVP, and the World Series MVP in the same season.
• Accolades: He was also named The Sporting News Pitcher of the Year and Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the Year for his 1988 achievements.

A Rare Piece of Baseball History

The 1988 Babe Ruth Award, presented to Orel Hershiser, is a testament to his outstanding performance in the World Series. This exquisite black wooden award, measuring 11” x 13” x 1” in an oval shape, features a silver plaque inscribed with “THE BABE RUTH AWARD OREL HERSHISER – To the most Outstanding Player of the 1988 World Series, Presented by the NY Chapter Baseball Writers Association of America”. The award is in EX-NM condition, with light surface scratches, and is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Orel Hershiser himself.

This award is a rare and historic piece of baseball memorabilia, offering collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history. The significance of this award is further amplified by its direct provenance from Hershiser, adding an element of exclusivity and authenticity.

For those passionate about sports memorabilia, this award represents not just a remarkable season but a defining moment in baseball history. As part of our MLB memorabilia consignment, this piece stands as a testament to Hershiser’s unparalleled achievements and the enduring legacy of the 1988 Dodgers.

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* This text was generated from the original auction listing.