(LOT 47)
Christy Mathewson & Albert Lang Dual-Signed 1925 Spring Training Contract - PSA/DNA 9 MINT for Mathewson Auto
This 1925 contract between Christy Mathewson and Albert Lang was indeed a significant event in baseball history. Mathewson, a former major league pitcher and an influential figure in the game, and Lang, who was involved in baseball management, played key roles in establishing St. Petersburg, Florida, as the spring training home for the Boston Braves, among many other teams.

The Boston Braves, who later became the Milwaukee Braves and then the Atlanta Braves, used St. Petersburg as their spring training facility starting in 1925, the year this contract was executed. This decision marked a notable shift for the team, moving their spring training operations to a warmer climate, which was becoming increasingly popular among MLB teams. The move not only benefited the players by providing a more favorable training environment but also helped to grow the sport's popularity in Florida.

Mathewson's role in this contract underscores his enduring influence on the game, extending beyond his remarkable career as a player. This contract, signed on March 6, 1925, is a rare and valuable piece of memorabilia, authenticated by PSA/DNA. PSA has individually graded the Christy Mathewson autograph a PSA MINT 9. As one of the last items Mathewson signed before his death seven months later, it offers a unique glimpse into 1920s baseball history.

Before becoming an executive, Mathewson played for the New York Giants from 1900 to 1916, and then briefly for the Cincinnati Reds in 1916. His impressive career included two World Series championships, two Triple Crown titles, four National League wins leader awards, five National League ERA leader awards, and five National League strikeout leader awards. He also pitched two no-hitters and was a member of the Major League Baseball All-Century Team.

In contrast, Lang was a businessman who served as the Mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida, from 1916 to 1920. After his second term, Lang focused on promoting baseball in Florida, a state where teams were still scattered across several southern states. By 1925, nine of the twelve major league teams were holding spring training in Florida, leading to the formation of what became known as the Grapefruit League. Among these teams, the New York Yankees, featuring legendary players like Babe Ruth, were the most prominent. The presence of the Yankees brought extensive media coverage to St. Petersburg, significantly boosting the city's national profile.

In recognition of Lang's contributions, St. Petersburg named a new baseball park in his honor. Al Lang Field opened in 1947 to much celebration and went on to host several major league teams over the years, including the Boston Braves, New York Giants, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Tampa Bay Rays.

This is undoubtedly one of the most unique high-grade Christy Mathewson items we've ever offered. Fresh to the hobby, it has been stored in a bank vault for over 99 years. As this auction concludes, this contract will celebrate its 100th birthday!

MIN BID $5,000
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