Don Larsen’s perfect game ball is one of the most iconic sports memorabilia in the history of baseball. Pitched on October 8, 1956, in Game 5 of the World Series between the New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers, Larsen’s perfect game remains a testament to his extraordinary skill and the magic of the game. The ball itself, autographed by Larsen and authenticated by Major League Baseball, has become a symbol of excellence and a cherished piece of baseball history.
The story of the Don Larsen perfect game ball begins with the historic game itself. Larsen, a right-handed pitcher for the Yankees, took the mound against the Dodgers’ powerful lineup. Over the course of nine innings, he allowed no hits, no walks, and no runs, making history and securing his place in baseball lore. The ball used in that perfect game has since become a sought-after artifact, representing the pinnacle of pitching achievement.
After the game, the ball was retrieved by a fan named Chuck Stearns, who was in the stands that day. Stearns, a Brooklyn Dodgers fan, was in awe of Larsen’s performance and decided to keep the ball as a memento. For years, the ball remained in Stearns’ possession, becoming a cherished family heirloom.
In 1985, Stearns, now a resident of New York, decided to sell the ball to raise funds for a charity. The ball was auctioned off at Sotheby’s, where it fetched a record-breaking price of $303,277. The winning bidder, a New York Yankees fan named John Rosatti, purchased the ball with the intention of donating it to the Yankees’ museum. However, Rosatti’s plans changed, and he decided to keep the ball for himself.
The Don Larsen perfect game ball has since been displayed in various locations, including the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York. In 2012, the ball was loaned to the Baseball Hall of Fame for an exhibit celebrating the 50th anniversary of the perfect game. The exhibit showcased the ball alongside other memorabilia from the historic game, providing fans with a glimpse into one of baseball’s most memorable moments.
The significance of the Don Larsen perfect game ball extends beyond its historical value. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and drama of baseball, a sport that has captivated fans for generations. The ball’s journey from the hands of a fan to its current status as a cherished piece of sports history is a testament to the enduring appeal of the perfect game and the legacy of Don Larsen.
As the years pass, the Don Larsen perfect game ball continues to be a source of inspiration and admiration. It stands as a symbol of the extraordinary talent and determination required to achieve such a remarkable feat in the world of baseball. Whether displayed in a museum or cherished by a private collector, the ball remains a powerful reminder of the magic of the game and the indelible mark left by Don Larsen’s perfect game.
