Following the Black Sox scandal in the 1919 World Series, baseball owners were looking to install someone who could watch over their sport and protect it from any further wrongdoing. As a result, Kenesaw Mountain Landis was named the first Commissioner of Baseball in 1920. His first action as commissioner was to ban the eight Chicago White Sox players who had been accused of throwing the 1919 World Series against the Chicago Cubs. Landis would go on to serve as commissioner of baseball until his death in 1944, and is widely credited with helping restore the public’s faith in the game following the scandal. 

                Offered here is a typed letter dated May 12, 1938 that has been signed by Landis in black pen. The letter is addressed to “Mr. Howard Pennertz, Route 3, Litchfield, Minn.” and reads “Dear Sir: Your letter of May 11, presenting claim against the Grand Forks Club, has been forwarded to Judge William G. Granham, President, National Association, Durham, N.C., as he has jurisdiction of claims of Minor League players. Very truly yours, (signed) Commissioner.” This 8 ½ x 11 inch document has “BASEBALL” centered on the top with “33 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE CHICAGO May 12, 1938” on the upper right and “KENESAW M. LANDIS COMMISSIONER LESLIE M. O’CONNOR SECRETARY-TREASURER” on the upper left. This off-white document has three crease lines consistent with being mailed in an envelope and shows only minor edge and corner wear. There is a fold-crease on the upper left corner and some ink spots on the lower right portion of this document. This item comes with a STICKER ONLY from JSA (B14211) for his signature. 

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