This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/20/2012
The 1998 New York Yankees won more games, including the postseason, than any team in major league history. The Yankees finished 125-50 after an 11-2 romp through October that included a sweep of the Padres in the World Series. They won the A.L. East by 22 games and led the majors in runs and the A.L. in ERA. Fronting one of the most balanced lineups in history, Bernie Williams led the team in batting average (.339), Derek Jeter in runs (127) and Tino Martinez in homers (28). Ten players hit at least 10 homers, and six had at least 149 hits. Their remarkable season featured the franchise’s first regular-season perfect game (by David Wells) and the first since Don Larsen’s in the 1956 World Series. Wells (18-4) was one of five starters to win at least 12 games. David Cone’s 20-7 record led the staff. After losing four of its first five games, New York went on a 22-2 run to seize the division. From April 5-August 24, the Yankees didn’t lose more than two consecutive games.
Featuring a diamond encrusted "NY" logo on its face, this 10 karat gold ring is embossed "World Champions 1998" and was given to Yankees staffer Mark Shiflett. One side of the band shows the Yankee logo above and reads "125-50" and "Best Ever" to commemorate their historic regular season record. The other side is engraved "Shiflett" above an image of the World Series trophy against the Yankee Stadium facade, "Tradition." Inside it is stamped "Balfour 10K." The Yankees swept the Padres in the 1998 World Series as Mariano Rivera established his dominance as a closer with three saves. The ring remains in excellent original condition with minimal evidence of wear and includes its original presentation box. Size: 11 1/2".