Winter Auction 2015 closing February 7
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/8/2015
The Big Unit began 1997 with a question mark hanging over his head. He missed much of the '96 season with back injuries and baseball fans and writers wondered if he'd regain the brilliance of his earlier years. No one needed to worry - Johnson not only regained his form but surpassed it - going 20-4 for the year with 291 strike outs and a career best 2.28 ERA. Twice during that incredible 1997 season he struck out 19 batters in a game. This road gray Mariners jersey was worn during that extraordinary 1997 season. The front of the jersey has "SEATTLE" in navy, white and teal tackle twill with navy piping around the collar and front. Size 50 Russell label is sewn in the front left tail with added "5" EXTRA LENGTH" tag and "1997" on a white strip tag. A 20th Anniversary patch is sewn on the left sleeve and the 50th anniversary Jackie Robinson patch is on the right. the back has "JOHNSON" across the shoulders in navy and teal tackle twill on a gray name plate. Johnson's "51" is below in the same club colors. The ace has signed the "5" in white ink adding "Big Unit Game Used 1997 20-4". The jersey displays moderate game use with a few scattered loose threads. A season like Johnson's 1997 comes along once in a lifetime and this is an artifact that was there on the field while it was happening. A true part of baseball history. MEARS has thoroughly examined this Cooperstown-worthy jersey and awarded it their highest grade of A-10. Signed Letter of Authenticity from Randy Johnson and LOA's from JSA (Y20461) and PSA/DNA.