This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/20/2011
Lynwood “Schoolboy” Rowe had all the attributes of a great pitcher -- size and strength, head and heart. At his peak with the Detroit Tigers, he had an overpowering fastball, a quick breaking curve and a change of pace that a teammate described as "magic." A slim right-hander raised in Arkansas, Rowe won 24 games in his second season in the major leagues, helping the Detroit Tigers to the 1934 pennant. He enjoyed two more fine seasons before arm trouble curtailed his promising career at the age of 27. He made a comeback and put up some decent numbers for Detroit and later the Phillies during the early 1940s, before losing two years to service in World War II. He retired with a fine .610 winning percentage and 158 victories.
The offered Tigers white pinstriped home jersey is lettered "Detroit" across the front in felt script lettering and features the number "24" on the reverse. All letters and numbers are appliqued in black felt that shows age appropriate fading. Located in the collar is the Spalding manufacturer’s label, which has frayed from wear. Also situated in the collar is the name "Rowe" chain-stitched in red. The cut sleeves have the appearance of being Rowe’s own customization in the period. This rare early Detoit gem is otherwise completely original and unaltered and displays substantial game wear including a few light scattered stains on the upper shoulder areas and inside the collar. General soiling is evident throughout giving this rare and exceptional flannel ideal display quality.