(LOT 1234)
Bill Drake Signed Photo – Measures Approx. 5" x 7" – JSA LOA
Here is one you don't see very often! This magnificent 5" x 7" original Bill Drake photo has been boldly signed by the Negro League twirler in bold black pen, clearly reading: "Big Bill Drake – 3-25-75." Signed two years before he passed away, Drake is wearing an Oilers uniform with his hands at waist as he graciously provides the photographer a stoic look. Interestingly enough, this 6' 200+ lb. former Negro Leagues right-hander chose his "Big Bill" moniker for the salutation as opposed to his more popular nickname "Plunk" that he attained for constantly pitching inside to hitters, ultimately ending with the hard throwing "plunking" a significant number of batsmen. Born in Sedalia, Missouri on June 8, 1895, Drake would eventually pitch for eight different Negro Leagues clubs over a 11-year career that spanned from 1916-1927.

He would win 74 games in that span, with his most celebrated professional run being with the legendary Kanas City Monarchs from 1922-1925 that would see Drake participate in two Negro League World Series" (1924/'25). His "claim to fame" is his insistence that he actually taught the immortal Satchel Paige his famous "hesitation pitch", although historians will argue that it was Bill Gatewood who should be credited with that feat. His list of teams includes the St. Louis Giants (1916; 1919-'22), All Nations (1917), Brinsmade (1917), Kansas City Monarchs (1922 -'25), Indianapolis ABC's (1926) and the Detroit Stars (1927), with Drake handing up his cleats after winning seven games with the Stars in 1927. Rarely does a Bill Drake signed image surface for the taking, substantiating why this impressive and extremely obscure offering would make a fine addition to any esteemed Negro League autograph collection!

MIN BID $200
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