1952 marked a fourth straight World Series triumph for the New York Yankees, matching their historic streak from the late '30s. The Yanks won 95 games under the guidance of skipper Casey Stengel en route to their 19th pennant and 15th championship. Once again, they defeated their Brooklyn rivals from the NL, this time needed all seven games to do it. The post-DiMaggio era left nothing to be desired in the Bronx, with the likes of Yogi Berra behind the dish, a 20-year-old Mickey Mantle in centerfield, and 20-game winner Allie Reynolds filling the role of ace while Whitey Ford was off serving in the military.
This extremely well-preserved OAL (Harridge) ball with an even, creamy white surface holds a total of 26 bold signatures. Hall of Famers include Mickey Mantle (8/10), Yogi Berra (SS), Phil Rizzuto and Johnny Mize. They are joined by Billy Martin, Allie Reynolds, Joe Collins, Ralph Houk, Johnny Sain, Vic Raschi, Ed Lopat, Hank Bauer, Tom Gorman, Bob Kuzava, Gene Woodling, Jim Brideweser, Jim McDonald, Gil McDougald, Bill Miller, Irv Noren, Joe Ostrowski, Johnny Schmitz, Charlie Silvera and Ray Scarborough. Manager Casey Stengel on the sweet spot has been deemed "clubhouse."
The last player mentioned happens to be the original owner of this ball, having pitched for the Yankees in 1952 and '53. In Game 1 of the 1952 World Series at Ebbets Field, Scarborough pitched the bottom of the 8th and allowed a solo home run to Pee Wee Reese. He acquired this ball at some point during the series and eventually passed it down to his family where it has remained until now. '52 Yankees team balls of this caliber with second-year Mantles are few and far between in the hobby. This one is market-fresh with player provenance and in remarkable condition. Includes full LOA from PSA/DNA (AG02825) with overall 7.5 grade (7 ball; 8 auto). LOA from Scarborough family.