Tommy John Autographed Game-Used Ball from His 21st Victory in 1979.
Lot 53. Tommy John Autographed Game-Used Ball from His 21st Victory in 1979. One of baseball’s all-time top left-handed pitchers, John recorded his 21st win of 1979 on Sept. 29 at Yankee Stadium. In their next-to-last 1979 game, the New York Yankees defeated Toronto, 9-4. John concluded the season with a 21-9 record and a stingy 2.96 ERA. Three of the Blue Jays’ runs were earned, and John struck out seven. Don Hood relieved John and, after giving up a hit, got Al Woods to hit a grounder for the final out. John printed the date on the north panel, the score on the sweet spot and “21st Win” on the south of a MacPhail ball used during the game. He added his signature below. Kevin Keating authenticated the autograph, which is a 10. This signed ball is from the personal collection of one of baseball’s important pitchers. Winning Bid $134.
