Auction Item Details
Lot 69
LOADING IMAGES
Lot Number: 69
Description: 1918 Eddie Cicotte autographed Chicago White Sox player's contract: The season before "The Fix." Original American League issued player's contract as executed between the Chicago White Sox and pitcher Ed Cicotte covering his terms of employment for the 1918 season. Cicotte was among the most talented pitchers of the early 20th Century and helped lead the White Sox to a World Series Championship in 1917. He lead the American League in wins and ERA in1918 and threw a no-hitter on April 14th. The following season injury would hamper his play but he rebounded with a strong showing in 1919 winning (29) games and again helping Chicago to the AL pennant. They would face Cincinnati in what has become one of the most famous, and infamous, post-season contests in history. Cicotte would pitch in three games during the ill fated contest winning one and proving all but ineffective in the other two. It would later be revealed that he and (7) other members of the White Sox conspired to throw the Series and hand the Reds a Championship; all were banned from baseball for life. Contract is dated January 9, 1918 and called for total compensation of $5,000. It is signed "E.V. Cicotte" by the player with team owner Charles Comiskey adding his stamp just above. An additional signature of Ban Johnson, then American League President, appears on the back. Both are done in fountain pen rating 8 out of 10 or better. Light toning and handling wear with typical folds. Includes full LOA from JSA: Sigs. NM, Contract VG-EXEstimated Price Range: ($5,000-$7,500)
Sold for Price: Login or Register