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Rare 1956 Russ Meyer Cincinnati Redlegs Game Worn Jersey
Presented is a 1956 game worn, all original, Cincinnati Redlegs' jersey of pitcher Russ Meyer, probably the most desirable of all the Redlegs' styles because it was used for such a short period. Since 1890, when Cincinnati transferred from the then Major League American Association - in which the team was named the Cincinnati Red Stockings - Cincinnati's National League franchise has been called the "Reds," with the exception of 1954-58, when the franchise was known as the "Redlegs." The temporary change in nicknames was because during the mid-1950s many Americans were concerned about the United States-Soviet Union "Cold War," and spearheaded by U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy's investigations, many citizens were concerned about possible Communist influence in America. Since the nickname for Communists is "Reds," the Cincinnati franchise changed the team's name to "Redlegs" for five years, until the fears of Communist or "Red" subversion had diminished. Thus, a Redlegs' jersey, because of its rarity, has increased value to collectors. Meyer was a Major League pitcher for all or parts of 13 seasons: Chicago Cubs (1943-48 & '56), Philadelphia Phillies (1949-52), Brooklyn Dodgers (1953-55), Cincinnati Redlegs (1956), Boston Red Sox (1957), and Kansas City Athletics (1959). A right-hander, Meyer earned the nickname "Mad Monk" from his notoriously short temper. He had a career record of 94-73, with a lifetime ERA of 3.99. His best season was 1949, when he went 17-8 with the Phillies, with a 3.08 ERA. In 1955, he was a member of the Brooklyn Dodgers' only World Championship team. In '56, when this white, home jersey was worn, he was briefly on his third team of that season - the Cincinnati Redlegs. A MacGregor size 42 tag in the collar has a tear at the top but is still fully sewn in. Some loose fabric in the neck area inside does not affect the overall appearance of the jersey. "34" is in red tackle twill on the back and right chest area while the Redlegs' Mustache logo is sewn on the left chest area. A "Set 1 1956" tag is inside the front tail. Some loose fabric is also at the bottom of the jersey. Other than the loose fabric, the jersey is in terrific condition and shows optimal game use. This rare Redlegs jersey provides great vintage appeal.
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