Wade Boggs debuted with Boston in 1982 and in his first three seasons he quickly proved that he was one of the game's elite hitters by posting averages of .349, a league-leading .361, and .325, respectively. Despite his accomplishments, the Red Sox refused to significantly increase his 1984 salary of $525,000. Forced to go to arbitration, the club offered Boggs $675,000 for the 1985 season but eventually lost the case and were forced to pay him the $1,000,000 salary his agent countered with. In retrospect, the $1,000,000 salary turned out to be a bargain for the club. Boggs responded by batting a career-high .368 in 1985 to capture his second batting title, and the first of four straight batting titles for the Red Sox. Boggs retired in 1999 with a .328 lifetime average, which ranks thirty-fifth all time. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2005.
Boggs’ 1985 all original gray road jersey has navy blue "BOSTON" lettering stitched on the front and Boggs' number 26 on the back. Wilson size 42 tag is sewn on the front tail above an "85" year patch. Boggs’ inscription on the front reads, “Best Wishes, Wade Boggs A.L. Batting Champ .368 1985” in blue marker. Excellent game wear is evident with no structural faults. Pre-certified by PSA/DNA (auto.).
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.