|
Ban Johnson (D. 1931) was the founder of the American League, Ban Johnson was baseball's most influential executive for nearly a quarter of a century. As president of the Western League, he changed its name to the American League in 1900 and claimed major league status the following year. Despite opposition by National League owners, the new league quickly proved its competitiveness on the field and at the gate. Johnson became the most significant member of the National Commission, baseball's ruling body until 1920. He was elected to the Baseball HOF in 1937.
Albert "Bibbs" Raymond: The Silk Sox Star
In 1915, manager Harry Doherty spotted 17-year-old Albert "Bibbs" Raymond shagging fly balls and immediately signed him to the Silk Sox. The talented outfielder became a hometown hero from nearby Paterson, working at Doherty Silk Mill by day while consistently competing for team batting titles. Though the Yankees signed Raymond in 1924, he rejected their attempt to farm him out, choosing family obligations and his mill job over the majors. As teammate Paddy Smith said, "Bibbs Raymond was good enough to have played with any team in major league baseball," but he prioritized his Silk Sox community over fame.
Paul Krichell: Yankees' Legendary Scout
Paul Krichell (1882-1957) served as the New York Yankees' head scout for 37 years. After a brief playing career as a catcher for the St. Louis Browns and in the minor leagues, Krichell was hired by Ed Barrow as a scout in 1920. His exceptional talent evaluation helped build the Yankees' dynasty from the 1920s "Murderers' Row" through the 1950s Stengel era. Krichell signed over 200 future professionals, including Hall of Famers Lou Gehrig, Hank Greenberg, Phil Rizzuto, Whitey Ford, and Tony Lazzeri. Barrow considered him "the best judge of baseball players he ever saw."
Offered is an Official "American League Player's Contract," dated May 27, 1925, between Albert Raymond and the American League Base Ball Club of New York. Signed on the interior in black fountain pen by New York head scout Paul Kritchell. Please note per James Spence/JSA that the adjacent signature of Jacob Ruppert was actually penned by Ed Barrow. American League president Ban Johnson has signed the front. The contract calls for Raymond to receive $500 per month for the 1925 season.
The four-page contract (8-1/2 x 11 inches) displays a pair of horizontal folds (there are tears along the fold lines), a few other tiny edge tears, and a few small stains; Poor condition overall.
Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA.
Item: 13911
|