9/27/1973 Nolan Ryan Autographed Next-To-Last Pitch For Single Season Strikeout Record

Nolan Ryan’s Historic Strikeout Baseball: A Legendary Piece of Baseball History

A Momentous Occasion in Baseball

On the evening of September 27th, 1973, the baseball world witnessed a historic moment as Nolan Ryan took the mound against the Minnesota Twins. In a thrilling 5-4 victory, Ryan not only secured his 21st win of the season but also shattered Sandy Koufax’s single-season strikeout record. The record-breaking moment came in the 11th inning with a strikeout of Rich Reese, marking Ryan’s 383rd strikeout of the season. This remarkable achievement solidified Ryan’s place in baseball lore, and the baseball from this game has become a cherished piece of baseball memorabilia.

The Baseball: A Testament to Greatness

This “REACH” manufactured OAL baseball represents the next-to-last pitch Ryan threw against Reese, his final batter faced in the game. Ryan’s signature graces the sweet spot of the baseball, penned with precision and rated an 8 overall in our expert opinion. The ball is inscribed in blue marker with the words, “Next To Last Pitch, Which Made Ryan Single Season Strike Out King. 383 Ks 9/27/73.” Additional inscriptions detail the historic moment, including “Rich Reese Minnesota Twins Batter” and “382 2-3” on adjacent panels.

Provenance and Accompaniment

This extraordinary baseball is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, further enhancing its value and authenticity. The ball was consigned directly from the bat boy who retrieved it, adding a unique layer of provenance. The accompanying LOA from the bat boy reads, “I call this ball 382 2-3. This ball represents strike two on Rich Reese of the Minnesota Twins…I retrieved the ball and stuck it in my back pocket knowing full well that strike three would represent 383 strikeouts, a new single season record. That ball is now housed at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. This is the one prior to.” This baseball is not only a piece of history but also a testament to the meticulous care taken by those who witnessed Ryan’s greatness firsthand.

Why This Baseball Matters

• Historical Significance: Represents the penultimate pitch before Nolan Ryan set a new single-season strikeout record.
• Iconic Player: Nolan Ryan, a Hall of Famer, is celebrated for his unparalleled achievements in Major League Baseball.
• Unique Provenance: Consigned directly from the bat boy, adding authenticity and a personal connection to the event.
• Condition and Story: The inscriptions and signature tell a story of a legendary moment in baseball history.

A Legacy Beyond the Game

Nolan Ryan’s legacy extends far beyond this single game. His career was marked by extraordinary achievements, including seven no-hitters and 5,714 career strikeouts, the most in MLB history. This baseball is not just a piece of memorabilia; it is a symbol of Ryan’s enduring impact on the sport. For collectors and enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to own a fragment of baseball history, a testament to Ryan’s indelible mark on the game. Explore more about such legendary items in our sports memorabilia auctions and consider how you might consign your own piece of history with Grey Flannel Auctions.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.