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Ban Johnson (D. 1931) was the founder of the American League, Ban Johnson was baseball's most influential executive for nearly a quarter of a century. As president of the Western League, he changed its name to the American League in 1900 and claimed major league status the following year. Despite opposition by National League owners, the new league quickly proved its competitiveness on the field and at the gate. Johnson became the most significant member of the National Commission, baseball's ruling body until 1920. He was elected to the Baseball HOF in 1937.
Jacob Ruppert (D. 1939) Starting out in the family brewing business, Ruppert entered the United States National Guard in 1886 at the age of 19, eventually reaching the rank of colonel. While he was the owner of the Yankees, he purchased the contract of Babe Ruth and built Yankee Stadium, reversing the franchise's fortunes and establishing it as the premier club in the major leagues. Ruppert was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in July 2013
Mike McNally (D. 1965) During his 10-year playing career, "Minooka Mike" teamed up with Babe Ruth in Boston and New York. According to SABR biographer Jim Leeke, "McNally would be variously remembered in New York as Ruth’s roommate, babysitter, guardian, and friend. The Babe himself later recalled that McNally had for years carried around a fading box score to prove that the infielder had once pinch hit for him back in Boston. When he showed it once too often in New York, Ruth told him, 'Mike, if you show that box score to anyone again I’ll make you eat it.'" On his own merits, the colorful, charismatic McNally is also known for two dramatic World Series plays—scoring a game-winning run in 1916 and stealing home in 1921.
Offered is Mike McNally’s 1924 American League baseball contract with the New York Yankees that has been signed by McNally, Ruppert, and Ban Johnson.
Comes with additional JSA auction LOA
Item: 8401
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