This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/27/2023
Grover Cleveland Alexander, better known as “Old Pete,” was the National League’s most dominant pitcher in the years before World War I. He almost single-handedly pitched the Phillies to the 1915 pennant and setting a record five one-hit games along the way. He won 373 games and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1938. This exquisite Type 1 photo captures Alex in his follow through before a game at New York’s Polo Grounds. According to Marc Okkonen’s uniform database, the image appears to be from the 1914-17 period during which Alexander won two Pitching Triple Crowns and led the NL in wins four consecutive years.
This 6.5" by 8.5" crystal clear original photo shows such fascinating details as Pete's eight-panel cap and well-worn fielder's glove. It displays slight toning from age with some rounding to the corners, but remains in outstanding condition overall. The back of the photograph has the ever-important Paul Thompson and The Ring, Inc. stamps along with “Alexander Phil Nat” in pencil. The photo has been encapsulated Type 1 by PSA/DNA.