This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/4/2017
Mel Ott, the Baseball Hall of Famer who launched 512 home runs during the course of his impressive 22-year Major League career, all with the New York Giants, served as player/manager for the team during his final six seasons (1942 to ’47). He would finish his managerial career in 1948 when he was succeeded halfway through the season by Leo Durocher. During the 1940’s, despite being in his 30’s, the fleet-footed Ott still played third base and right field and even stole 27 bases.
Offered here is a pair of Ott’s circa 1940’s game worn Spalding cleats. Both of the black leather cleats, which measure 11 inches long, still boast their original six metal cleats and show excessive wear. Though a bit frayed, even the cleats original black shoelaces remain intact. Truly a period piece illustrating the less-than-comfortable playing equipment that competitors of that era were battling in. Ott retired from the game following the ’48 campaign and then spent time working as a baseball broadcaster from 1955 until his untimely death three years later.
These cleats come directly from the Ott family with a Letter of Authenticity from Ott's great-granddaughter.