This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/29/2019
From 1956 to the end of the ‘60s, Don Drysdale was the workhorse of the legendary Dodgers staff, a cadre of fireballers that propelled the newly transplanted Los Angeles franchise to three World Series titles in seven seasons (1959-65). The imposing right-hander known as “Big D” ruled by intimidation on the hill. Fittingly, in ’59, he led the NL in punchouts (242) and hit batsmen (18) – as well as shutouts (four) – guiding the Dodgers to their first Fall Classic on the west coast where they knocked off the White Sox in six. Don’s lone Cy Young came in 1962, but he is best remembered for his magical ’68 campaign when he set MLB records with six straight shutouts and 58 consecutive scoreless innings. He ended his career with 209 wins, 2,486 strikeouts, 167 complete games and 49 shutouts to secure a spot in Cooperstown.
Featured here is Drysdale’s game worn home white jersey from that memorable ‘59 championship season, possibly worn for Drysdale's Game 3 World Series victory at the L.A. Coliseum. The flawless flannel remains all-original and unaltered as its perfect grade from MEARS would indicate. The chest boasts the classic “Dodgers” logo and Don’s iconic “53” in blue and red felt, with the digits repeated in blue on back. Proper "Rawlings Hall of Fame Flannel [size] 44" tagging appears on the left front tail above a blue chain stitched "Drysdale 59” sewn directly onto the thick cream-colored material. The interior tail has a washing instructions label with a "Set 1 1959" flag tag. The jersey displays obvious wear but none of the staining or moth holes so often found in vintage flannels. Drysdale has double signed the front in bold black marker with one inscribed “Best Wishes.” LOAs from MEARS (A10), PSA/DNA & JSA.