DALLAS, Texas – It’s been almost a century since the legendary Babe Ruth made his infamous “called shot” during the 1932 World Series. And now, the jersey worn by the New York Yankees slugger when he hit that iconic home run to center field is up for auction, with a potential price tag of $30 million.
The highly coveted jersey will be offered by Heritage Auctions on Saturday night in Dallas, and it is expected to draw the attention of sports collectors and enthusiasts from around the world.
The “called shot” incident occurred during Game 3 of the World Series between the Yankees and the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on October 1, 1932. In the fifth inning, Ruth, known for his larger-than-life personality and impressive batting skills, made a bold pointing gesture before hitting a home run off Cubs pitcher Charlie Root.
The Yankees went on to win the game 7-5 and swept the Cubs the following day, securing their victory in the series. This was Ruth’s last World Series appearance, and the “called shot” was his final home run in a World Series, making it a truly significant moment in baseball history.
According to Mike Provenzale, the production manager for Heritage’s sports department, the jersey holds immense value due to its connection to Ruth’s most iconic moment. “When you can tie an item like that to an important figure and their most important moment, that’s what collectors are really looking for,” Provenzale said.
The road jersey was given by Ruth to one of his golfing buddies in Florida around 1940, and it has remained in that family for several decades. In the early 1990s, the man’s daughter sold it to a collector, who then sold it at auction in 2005 for a staggering $940,000. This year, the same buyer has consigned it to Heritage, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the auction.
This is not the first time that a Babe Ruth jersey has fetched a record-breaking price at auction. In 2019, a road jersey dating back to 1928-30 was sold for a staggering $5.64 million in an auction conducted at Yankee Stadium. This jersey was part of a collection of items that had been put up for sale by Ruth’s family.
The popularity and demand for Babe Ruth memorabilia continue to soar, and collectors are always eager to get their hands on a piece of history. The fact that this particular jersey is linked to Ruth’s “called shot” moment makes it even more valuable and desirable.
The auction of this jersey is not just an opportunity to own a piece of sports history, but it also serves as a reminder of the incredible legacy left behind by Babe Ruth. He was not just a baseball legend but a cultural icon who captivated the hearts and minds of people all around the world.
As we approach the 100th anniversary of the “called shot,” this auction is a timely reminder of the impact that Babe Ruth had on the game of baseball and the world of sports. His larger-than-life persona, incredible talent, and unforgettable moments on the field continue to inspire and captivate fans of all ages.
So, whether you’re a die-hard sports collector or simply a fan of the game, the opportunity to own Babe Ruth’s “called shot” jersey is not one to be missed. As the bidding begins on Saturday night, all eyes will be on Dallas, eagerly waiting to see who will be the lucky owner of this priceless piece of sports history.
