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Ruth's last pro uniform auctioned for $310,500

Legendary Yankee was first-base coach for Dodgers during 1938 season

Image: Babe Ruth AP file
Babe Ruth hit 714 home runs during his legendary career with the New York Yankees.

MISSION VIEJO, Calif. - SCP Auctions bought a full Babe Ruth 1938 Brooklyn Dodgers road uniform for $310,500 at auction at the Louisville Slugger Museum.

SCP Auctions said Saturday that the uniform, the last professional uniform worn by Ruth, was purchased on behalf of a client who is an avid collector of Ruth memorabilia.

Ruth was a first-base coach for the Dodgers during the 1938 season, his final season in baseball. He also regularly took batting practice with the team to appease fans who wanted another glimpse at the great slugger.

“This is a monumental piece of baseball memorabilia, and we are proud to have been a part of the purchase on behalf of our client,” said David Kohler, president of SCP Auctions. “Considering Ruth’s stature not only in baseball but in American pop culture, and the fact that this is the last uniform he ever wore, this really is a rare and prized piece.”

Ruth’s last major league road uniform consists of his heavy gray flannel Spalding jersey and matching pants, both of which feature Ruth’s full name in chain stitch near the manufacturer’s tagging. The shirt retains its blue Dodgers team name across the front, and Ruth’s uniform No. 35 on the back. A small “38” year designation is chain stitched on the back of the interior tail, which also retains custom lacing, which allowed Ruth to keep his shirt neatly tucked into his pants. The left sleeve retains its original 1939 World’s Fair patch.

© 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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