(LOT 2092)
1922 Chicago Cubs Team-Signed Baseball Including Alexander and Hartnett LOA from MLI and Statz Family LOA
In 1922, the Chicago Cubs were mired in a slump of mediocrity from which they would not emerge until 1929. After losing the 1918 World Series in six games to the Babe Ruth-led Boston Red Sox, Chicago would enter, what is referred to nowadays, as a rebuilding phase. Centered around the Hall of Famer battery of Grover Cleveland Alexander and Gabby Hartnett, the Northsiders slowly pieced together a team that would once again vie for the World Series. Offered is an astonishingly well preserved 1922 Cubs team-signed baseball consigned from the family of a team member. Clear-shellacked, this ball displays only slightly toned with nearly all of the signatures presenting as if penned yesterday. This striking John Heydler (stamped in red) signed Spalding baseball features Charlie Hollocher and George Stueland on the sweet spot as well as Arnold ("Jigger") Statz (also a printed Arnold Statz).

Other players include: Tony Kaufman, George Maisel, C.E. (Cliff) Heathcote, E.P. ("Tiny") Osborne, O.R. (Ray) Grimes, E.V. ("Kettle") Wirts, Marty Krug, Bernie Friberg – signed "Barney", John Kelleher, Virgil Cheeves, Bob O'Farrell, Ty (Turner) Barber, Marty Callahan, G.C. (Grover Cleveland) Alexander, C.L. (Gabby) Hartnett, P.L. (Percy) Jones. Noticeably, many of the players have signed using initials rather than spelling out their complete first names including Alexander and Hartnett. The black fountain pen signatures range in strength from 7-9, but favoring the higher end as only a couple appear light due perhaps to pressure. Light scuffs or expected wear can be seen in various spots, but this ball is otherwise in extraordinary condition and one to consider. LOA from MLI and Family LOA Of Provenance.

MIN BID $300
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