"Rugged" would be a good word to describe Ty Cobb. From a 24-year career of cleats-up slides and bowling over opposing catchers, to his reputation as an avid sportsman, to his generally-noted hard-nosed mentality, the unforgettable Tigers center fielder will go down as one of the game's most intimidating. However, this image (from Cobb's personal scrapbook, no less) shows The Georgia Peach's softer side. Here, Cobb hunches down to pet a deer.
The offering measures approximately 3" x 5" and is in NM condition. 01428
Rex Teeslink served as Ty Cobb’s medical caretaker from May 24, 1961 until Cobb’s death on July 17 of the same year. In the waning weeks of the baseball great’s life, he and Teeslink forged a lasting bond. In fact, Teeslink indicates that he was among the few people Cobb trusted during the last days of his life, and the loyal caretaker was one of only two people present when the iconic Tiger took his final breath.
Upon Cobb’s passing, Teeslink was willed several items, including one of Cobb’s personal scrapbooks. These rarely seen, entirely original images come from that scrapbook. Each of these treasured photographs is accompanied by a Sporting News Collection hologram, and an individual Letter of Authenticity, written and personally signed by Mr. Rex Teeslink himself.
(MEARS Auction LOA~SB)