This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/8/2018
1969 Chicago Cubs Autographed Baseball (JSA) Still warmly remembered by Cubs fans, the 1969 Chicago Cubs are recognized by baseball historians as the most celebrated team having not won a pennant. The Cubs’ historic season of 1969 is the stuff of legend, their wonderful comradery, on-field magic, late-innings heroics and a deep connection with their adoring fans took the city of Chicago by storm that baseball season. “Cubs Fever” was infectious, taking hold of the Chicago and Midwest towns far beyond the city limits – even those outside Illinois! The 1969 Cubs were the medicine needed at that time. This was a racially-diverse group of men who loved one another, and who deeply appreciated their fans. Their interviews gave insight into their gratitude for one another, as well as their appreciation to make a living playing America’s great game. The offered official National League baseball has been signed by EVERY key player of that historic Cubs team (all with 150 or more at-bats) as well as both 20-Game Winners that season. Included is every player to compete in the season’s historic Opening Day contest (a dramatic, extra-innings victory over Philadelphia), one which set in motion the magic of 1969 in Chicago . Blue ballpoint signatures include Fergie Jenkins (pitcher), Randy Hundley (catcher), Ernie Banks (1st base), Glenn Beckert (2nd base), Don Kessinger (shortstop), Ron Santo (3rd base [d. 2010]), Billy Williams (left-field), Don Young (centerfield), Jim Hickman (rightfield) along with winning relief pitcher Phil Regan and pinch-hitting hero Willie Smith (d. 2006). Key additional signatures include Bill Hands (he & Jenkins were the only ’69 pitchers to each amass 20 or more victories), Al Spangler (the club’s #1 utility man and clutch pinch hitter) and Jim Qualls, the rookie whose infamous 9th inning single put an end to Tom Seaver’s bid for a perfect game on July 9, 1969. (16R0554)
(JSA Auction Letter)