Jim Palmer was the winning pitcher in 186 games in the 1970's, the most wins in that decade by any MLB pitcher. He wore this jersey in 1971, near the start of that remarkable streak, nailing down the second of eight 20-wins seasons he would record over that span, an achievement that led to three Cy Young Awards and four Gold Gloves during the decade. His 268 career victories are currently an Orioles record. A six-time American League All-Star, he was also one of the rare pitchers who never allowed a grand slam in any major league contest. Palmer appeared in the postseason eight times and was a vital member of three World Series Champions, six AL pennant winners and seven Eastern Division title holders. He is the only pitcher in the history of the Fall Classic with a win in each of three decades. He was also the youngest to pitch a shutout in a World Series at age 20 in 1966. Furthermore, Palmer was one of the starters on the last rotation to feature four 20-game winners in a single season in 1971, which seems like an appropriate introduction for this historic game-worn jersey.
On the left front tail of this blazing 1971 gamer is the “Spalding” manufacturer’s tag. Adjacent is the “71” year tag and an adjacent "Size 46" small flag tag. Inside the rear collar is a strip tag with “46 SET 2-71 22,” indicating jersey size, set, year and Palmer's number. Across the front is “Baltimore” in the famed script style. Palmer's No. 22 appears on both the front and back. All these numbers and letters are done in orange on black tackle twill. Though the jersey would seem to be beyond embellishment, the Hall of Famer even managed that, planting a spectacular black Sharpie autograph on the right breast front above the script "Orioles," and adding a "Best Wishes" inscription. Player name “Palmer” appears on back in orange on black felt. The jersey shows great game use and there are no alterations of any kind.
Includes a LOA from MEARS (Graded A10) and a Letter of Provenance from the Newport Sports Museum Collection.
Pre-certified by PSA/DNA (auto.).