1948 Larry Doby & Steve Gromek “The Embrace” Iconic Image Original TYPE I Photo PSA/DNA

Larry Doby (1923-2003) became the first Black player in the American League when he integrated the Cleveland Indians in 1947. He endured relentless racism from opposing players, fans, and even some teammates, was forced to stay in separate hotels, denied service in restaurants, and was instructed by owner Bill Veeck not to respond to racial taunts. Despite those obstacles, Doby became a seven-time All-Star, helped lead Cleveland to the 1948 World Series championship, hit over 250 career home runs, and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998.

Larry Doby made his Major League debut with the Cleveland Indians on July 5, 1947, becoming the first Black player in American League history just 11 weeks after Jackie Robinson integrated the National League. Promoted directly from the Newark Eagles of the Negro Leagues, Doby arrived at the ballpark the day of the game and received a cold reception from many teammates. Despite enduring racism from fans, opponents, and even his own club, he persevered, helping lead Cleveland to the 1948 World Series title before earning seven All-Star selections and induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Offered is an original TYPE I photograph measuring 7 1/8” x 9” that shows Doby in his very first Cleveland Indians uniform on his very first day in the Major Leagues at Chicago’s Comiskey Stadium. Original ACME stamp on back.

Paper captions reads:

DOBY PLAYS FIRST GAME WITH CLEVELAND
CHICAGO, ILL. Larry Doby, New Jersey Eastman for the Cleveland Indians, selects a bat during the game with the White Sox, his first one with the Major League club. Doby, first Negro to join the American League, got one hit in four times at bat. He drove in a run with a single.
NY
Credit (ACME)
7-8-47 (LG)

Worthy of the finest collections!!

FULL LOA from PSA/DNA authenticating this photograph as an original TYPE I Photo (in addition to being encapsulated as a TYPE I photo by PSA).

**NOT FOR SALE**