Faced with the daunting prospect of succeeding Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski was true to the task, enjoying a 23-year career as a Beantown favorite. A key on two BoSox pennant-winning teams, "Yaz" was also the last player to win a Triple Crown laurel (1967). Offered here is treasured New England apparel: a Boston Red Sox autographed road jersey worn by the Hall of Famer during the 1973 season. In his 13th season with the Carmines, the 33-year-old veteran still used his expertise in playing drives off of the fabled "Green Monster," but did so sparingly, as he was moved to man first base almost permanently. His offensive production, meanwhile, did not waver. With 19 home runs, 95 RBI and a healthy .296 batting average, Yastrzemski was named to his 10th All-Star squad. In contention throughout the summer, the Red Sox finished as runners-up in the division race for a second straight season, this time, behind familiar nemesis Baltimore. Yaz's gray knit pullover jersey features "RED SOX" arched across the chest in red-on-blue double tackle twill and the since-retired number "8" sewn to the back in like fashion. Angled on the lower front, Yastrzemski's blue marker signature shows "9" strength. Red-and-blue striped stretch ribbed cotton lines the V-neck and, situated on the tapered front tail, a "McAULIFFE" local manufacturer's label is accompanied by a size "42" tag and flanked by a "1973" tag and a laundering instructions tag. Moderate wear.
Includes letter from MEARS graded A8. Autograph pre-certified by PSA/DNA.
PROVENANCE: Baltimore Orioles Clubhouse Collection - This is one of a collection of 12 jerseys in this auction that originate directly from the collection of a gentleman who served as the Baltimore Orioles visiting team clubhouse attendant in his youth in the early 1980’s. A dream job for any baseball loving kid, his position enabled him to serve and befriend many of the great stars of the era that passed through Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium. He was also a well-liked “gofer” for many of his hometown heroes such as Eddie Murray, Cal Ripken and Brooks Robinson. All of the game worn jerseys presented here were given to him personally by the players they represent and autographed for him personally. Prior to their offering here, these jerseys have remained in his sole possession. Needless to say, they are ideal specimens with regard to originality, usage attributes and provenance.