Phil Rizzuto 1942 New York Yankees Home Jersey

The original "Health" patch on the left sleeve of this pinstriped flannel gamer dates this jersey definitively to the 1942 season, Rizzuto's second in the big leagues. In this, his sophomore year, "Scooter" saw action in his first All-Star Game and second World Series, beginning to compile the numbers that would lead him to Cooperstown. After the '42 season, military service would put Rizzuto's baseball career on hold, but the scrappy infielder didn’t miss a beat upon his return to the Yankees in 1946. During eleven more seasons in pinstripes, Rizzuto was a perennial All-Star, won the league MVP award in 1950 and contributed to seven more World Championships. The jersey shows attractive game wear, though some of this may be attributed in part to a second life in the minor leagues, which saw the removal of the original "NY" patch over the left breast. Rizzuto's original navy blue felt number "10" remains unaltered, as does the embroidered "P Rizzuto" swatch sewn into the collar. A "Spalding" label appears above as well as a size "42" flag tag. Scattered staining is apparent on front and verso, but nothing that distracts from its overall visual appeal. A small tear can be found in the right armpit. This rare early Rizzuto gamer was sourced from the family of a gentleman who owned a tavern across the street from the minor league ballpark where it was recycled. LOAs from MEARS (A5.5) and Lou Lampson.