Hall of Famer Frank Robinson became the first player (and to-date only player) in history to win MVP in the American and National Leagues. As his Hall of Fame playing was winding down and looking towards his post-playing career, Robinson was traded to the Cleveland Indians during the middle of the 1974 season and in 1975, became a player-manager for the Tribe, becoming the first African-American manager in MLB history.

After his managerial stint with the Indians ended following the 1977 season, Robinson joined on with one of his former teams, the Baltimore Orioles in 1978, serving as the team’s hitting coach. Robinson wore this gray Baltimore Orioles uniform (jersey and shorts) during the 1978 season. The offered button-down gray jersey was manufactured by Wilson and is a size 42. “Orioles” and Robinson’s number “20” are sewn on the front in orange and black tackle twill. The year and set patch is sewn on the bottom front left tail and reads “78 2”. The back of the jersey has “ROBINSON” sewn on a matching gray nameplate in orange and black tackle twill, with his number “20” sewn on below in orange and black tackle twill. The collar has a black and orange knit border, while the sleeve ends are capped with a black, white and orange knit material. There is an off-white inner lining that runs on the inside collar and down both sides of the buttons. Robinson has signed this jersey on the front in black marker below his number and inscribed “Best Wishes always”. This jersey displays moderate use.

Also included in this lot are the matching pants worn by Robinson during the 1978 season. These gray pants feature a black, white and orange sansabelt with two button-snaps and zipper. Please note there is some paint chipping on the black button. There are black, white and orange stripes that run vertically down the outside legs. There is a small pocket on the upper right thigh and the back has two pockets. The inner waist has a pull string and the team tag is sewn on in gray on the inner back waist that reads “20 78 25 2”. Next to the team tag is the Wilson size 35 tag. These pants display moderate use with some staining. Both the jersey and pants have been authenticated by Sports Investors Authentication (190115A4) for the game use with a corresponding LOA accompanying these items, along with a LOA from Steve Grad of Beckett Authentication (A19468) for Robinson’s signature and inscription.

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