This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2023
When Babe Ruth suited up for his first game as a Yankee in 1920, the eyes of the sporting world were on him. His transition from the best left-hander in the American League into the best slugger was unparalleled in baseball history. The home runs for which he was now becoming known for had been a rarity in the game. The advent of the lively ball and Ruth’s concentration on hitting them out of the park brought new interest to baseball and photographers such as Paul Thompson were there eagerly trying to document it all. Here Thompson captures the Yankees newest acquisition in the follow-through of his home run swing. The detail in the photograph is amazing – from Ruth’s crisp white home, pinstripe flannels down to the dirt being kicked up by his cleats as he shifts his feet. The reverse of the Type 1 photo bears the Paul Thompson stamping along with a handwritten pencil notation reading, “#3 of the “Home Run Swing” – Bat has met the ball and is passing Ruth’s shoulders.” Also present is a 1996 Christie’s Baseball Magazine hologram sticker. This photo is in immaculate condition. The 6-1/2” x 8-1/2” photograph has been encapsulated and graded Type 1 by PSA.