1985 was Cal Ripken Jr’s fourth full season in the Majors and he continued to establish himself as one of the premier shortstops in the game. At 6’4”, Ripken wasn’t the prototypical shortstop, but his height and quick feet began to build a new prototype shortstop that would see bigger/taller players like Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter dominate the scene. This offered Rawlings RGH-2A model glove was used by Ripken during the 1985 season. This glove displays outstanding game use with substantial wear being shown on the pocket, web face and throughout the body of the glove. The tips of the fingers are scuffed as would be expected from Ripken playing shortstop in every game of the 1985 season. On the back of the pinky finger is “RIPKEN”, which has been handwritten in black marker.

The glove was constructed of Rawlings top grade “Heart of the Hide” tanned steer hid and is bound with tanned rawhide laces. The web is a pro-style single post double T-bar with a conventional back and an adjustable fleece-lined wrist strap. The Rawlings red label with neon lettering is on the wrist and this special label indicates the glove was also used by Ripken during the Tour of Japan. This glove has been signed by Ripken in black marker and has been inscribed “1985”. This comes directly from the personal collection of Cal Ripken, Jr and a signed LOA from Cal will accompany this glove. Additionally, there is a LOA from PSA/DNA (1G06660) for the game use.

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