This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/26/2015
Seemingly penalized for the length of his distinguished career rather than lionized for his achievements, that curious prejudice is likely the only thing barring the brilliant left hander from a plaque in Cooperstown. With a lifetime mark of 283 wins and an ERA of 3.45, he has much to trumpet from his long MLB tenure, including three 20-win seasons, 16 consecutive Gold Gloves (a record at the time), a World Series title and a 25-win season in 1966 that would typically have yielded a Cy Young Award (complain to Mr. Koufax, please). This stunning 1967 grey flannel jersey traces its roots to one year after that stellar campaign. The shirt is lettered "Twins" across the front and features Kaat's No. 36 on the back, both in blue-on-red tackle twill. A "Spalding" label, adjacent Size 48 flag tag and washing instructions tag appear on the left front tail, with tags above and below blue stitch embroidery of "Kaat 36 46/48 67." A grey tag with "Kaat" stitched in blue is attached to the collar. The well-known Minnesota Twins patch is affixed to the left sleeve. Kaat has signed an attractive black marker signature on the right front tail, adding "1967" and "Best of Luck" inscriptions. The jersey is original as issued, with no alterations, and displays light wear throughout.
Pre-certified by PSA/DNA.