1996 was the breakout year for Alex Rodriguez. Playing in only 65 games during the 1994 and 1995 seasons, the budding superstar earned his first of an eventual 14 All-Star game selections, as he represented the Seattle Mariners at the 1996 All-Star Game in Philadelphia’s Veterans Stadium on July 9, 1996, the 67th Mid-Summer Classic. The National League won the game 6-0 with Los Angeles Dodgers’ catcher Mike Piazza taking home the MVP honors.

      Rodriguez got his first career all-star at-bat in the seventh inning as he fouled out to right fielder Gary Sheffield. It was Rodriguez’s only plate appearance. In 1996, Rodriguez led the American League in batting average (.358), doubles (54), runs scored (141) and total bases (379), while finishing the season with 36 home runs and 123 RBI in 146 games.

      Offered is the very same jersey worn by Rodriguez during his first career All-Star game in Philadelphia. This size 48 button-down gray Russell Athletic Diamond Collection jersey features “SEATTLE” across the chest in navy blue, teal and white tackle twill. Navy blue piping runs along the collar and down each side of the buttons. “RODRIGUEZ” is sewn on in navy blue and teal on a matching gray name plate on the back, along with his number “3”, which is also sewn on the back in navy blue and teal. The left sleeve has the Mariners’ circular logo patch and the right sleeve has the “1996 All-Star Game” logo patch. The Russell Athletic tag is sewn on the bottom front tail with a “1996”, “2” Extra Length” and “1” Extra Sleeve Length” tags affixed to the Russell Athletic tag. Rodriguez signed his name in blue marker to the left his number “3” and inscribed “1996 All-STAR GAME USED”. The jersey shows moderate game use and is in excellent condition. This rare jersey comes with a COA from Alex Rodriguez authenticating use during the 1996 All-Star Game and his signature comes with a LOA from PSA/DNA (AA07618).

Auction Notepad