After helping to lead the St. Louis Cardinals to the 1982 World Series title, first baseman Keith Hernandez was traded to division rival New York Mets in June of 1983. Hernandez, who wore “37” with the Cardinals, was issued jersey number “17” by the Mets as they had previously retired number 37 for Casey Stengel. His acrimonious departure from the Cardinals to the Mets, ushered in a new National East rivalry between the two teams as Hernandez was credited for being one of the players who helped change the culture of the struggling franchise.

      This Rawlings size 42 pullover gray New York Mets road jersey was worn by Hernandez when he first joined the Amazins in 1983. “Mets” is sewn on across the chest in blue and orange tackle twill. “17” is sewn on the front center and the back of the jersey in orange tackle twill and “HERNANDEZ” is sewn on in orange and blue on a matching gray name plate. A gray strip tag is sewn on the inside collar that reads “17 83 1”. The sleeves and sides have a ribbed material combination blue and orange stripes that run vertically. The red Rawlings tag is sewn on the inside front left tail with a “SET 1 1983” flag attached. This jersey shows moderate use and Hernandez signed his name in blue marker on the front of the jersey below his number. This first Keith Hernandez jersey comes with a signed LOA from Keith Hernandez on New York Mets letterhead stating that this jersey was the first one he wore during the 1983 season and a PSA/DNA COA (AB73604) for that signature. There is also an additional LOA from PSA/DNA (AC04051) for his signature on the jersey.

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