Babe Ruth is one of the greatest sports figures in the history of sports and we still celebrate his life and times along with his many accomplishments in his successful career even today. Recently, the memorabilia auction house Lelands.com bid a record breaking $4,415,658 for a jersey worn by Babe Ruth known to be a 1920 New York Yankees attire he wore in his first season after coming over from the Red Sox. The previous record for a sports memorabilia belonged to Dr. James Naismith’s, whos founding rules of basketball, called the “Bible of Basketball” was sold for $4,338,500 in 2010. The jersey was not the only item sold in association with Babe Ruth. Ruth’s 1930s-era cap which was worned and owned by former Yankee David Wells in a 1997 game, went for $537,278, along with one of Ruth’s game used bats for $591,007. The Babe’s old house in Massachusetts was also placed on sale, however due to the economy and current market, the price tag was listed for a mere $1.65 million.
His jersey had previously been displayed at the Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum in Baltimore, and would seem best sent to Cooperstown, but Lelands says it will turn around and sell the jersey to a private collector. Really? Why? It does not make sense but then it does. Leland is a business organization and if they can re-coop their money back and then some more for profit by re-selling it, then why not?
Mike Heffner, president of Lelands, said in a statement, “Such a spectacular piece will find a home with one of our private clients who truly appreciates its historic significance.”
So they are basically going to sell the items back to a wealthy man/woman who will only display it within their big mansion without serving a real meaningful purpose? I believe MLB should take charge of this situation and perhaps purchase the item to display it in Cooperstown. Babe Ruth is one of the legendary figures of all time and i believe his memorabilia should be used to show respect to the man who changed the game and helped it become what it is today. Any thoughts or comments on this Spitters? Lets hear whats floating through your membranes.
