This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/1/2011
They called Ford "The Chairman of the Board" for good reason. He was for more than a decade the star pitcher of a Yankees team that operated with corporate efficiency, and his intelligence and confidence were on display whenever he was on the mound. And, like most successful businessmen, he was at his best when the pressure was greatest. This Spalding LHT Whitey Ford model #1106 glove was used by Ford during the height of his career. Obvious evidence of his usage includes a small puncture hole on the interior that goes through to the back of the glove for unknown reasons. The lacing between two fingers at the top are missing, which appears to be intentional as the lacing are tied into a knot on the adjacent finger. The bottom right edge of the back strap has some wear to the edges. "33 2/3 IN-1962 W.S." is written in period ink on the back of the glove which has also been signed by Ford in black marker. This inscription was written in reference to the incredible record established by Ford of 33 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings pitched in World Series play. The previous record was held by Babe Ruth at 29 2/3 innings, and Ford's record stood until the 2000 season when Mariano Rivera finally eclipsed the mark. While Ford broke Babe Ruth's record in the 1961 World Series, the eventual record setting total was not established until the 1962 World Series. In the second inning of Game #1, Whitey finally surrendered a run to end the streak and establish one of baseball's truly remarkable records. While it does not appear that Ford used this particular glove during the record setting game in the 1962 World Series, it is highly likely, given the dating period of the glove and the evident usage, that the offered glove saw action in World Series play. This is one of the more significant game used player gloves with unimpeachable provenance originating directly from the personal collection of Whitey Ford. Includes LOAs from PSA/DNA (autograph) and a letter of provenance signed by Whitey Ford.