This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/28/2013
Dick Allen stepped up to the plate at Chicago’s Old Comiskey Park in the top of the first inning on August 12th 1967 with two men on base and launched a pitch from Joe Neikro high, far and deep for his 19th home run of the 1967 season and the 108th of his career. This is the official ONL (Giles) ball attributed to that clout. A printed side panel notation reads, “#19 Richie Allen 108th Career Homer August 12th 1967” in blue ball point. Additionally, the number “44” is written on the sweet spot. The balls shows appropriate soiling from game use.
During and after his tumultuous career, there were people who called Dick Allen the best hitter of his time, and his peak performances are undeniable: seven All Star appearances, six times hitting over .300, twice leading the league in OBP, seven times being in the top three in the league in slugging, twice a home run leader and second in home runs twice, and three times the league leader in Adjusted OPS (OPS+) - as well as three other times in the top three in the league. As time goes by, the strength of Allen’s performance may be easier to recall than the many controversies that he engendered and his Hall of Fame credibility will shine through.