This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/27/2010
The current high bid for the complete set, $422,500.00, is greater than the aggregate total of the bids on the single cards that comprise this set, $294,310.00 (this lot is currently losing)
Graded NM/MT 8 by PSA. Of the 16 examples of this exceptionally difficult card that have been assessed, the offered example is the ONE AND ONLY PSA NM/MT 8 graded copy graded with none graded higher! Many of his minor league experiences were inauspicious. Playing for Galesburg, IL, of the Central Association in 1909, he tried to break up a double play and took the shortstop's relay directly in the head. Unconscious for two days, he awoke with double vision. Galesburg sent him to Indianapolis , but, still disoriented, he broke three of the manager's ribs with his first pitch. Indianapolis sent him home and sold his contract to the Syracuse Chiefs of the International League over the winter. By spring, his vision had cleared and he won 29 for the Chiefs, including 15 shutouts. The Phillies acquired Alexander for $750 in 1911. As a rookie, he led the NL in wins (28), complete games (31), innings pitched (367), and shutouts (7). Four of the shutouts were consecutive; one was a 1-0 win over Cy Young, then in his final season. Alexander's greatest years were in Philadelphia (1911-17), despite a right-field wall in the Baker Bowl that was only 272 feet from home plate. He won 190 games (one-third of the team's total for the period), won 30 or more three straight years, 1915-17, and led the NL in every important pitching statistic at least once. His 16 shutouts in 1916 is still the ML record. Alexander was ungainly, with a shambling walk; his uniform never seemed to fit properly, and his cap looked a size too small. Yet his pitching motion was economical, apparently effortless, and marvelously graceful. His windup was minimal, his stride short, his delivery three-quarters overhand. His right arm swung across his chest and the ball seemed to emerge from his shirtfront. He warmed up quickly. On the mound he was deliberate but without wasted time or motion. The offered pasteboard is a sight to behold with four stunning upper end NM/MT corners as well as a bright bold colorful appearance of the all time great hurler. The reverse is a pleasant and undisturbed creamy off white that shows no evidence of staining of problematic areas. Offered in astounding and superlative NM/MT condition.