Despite painful nerve damage, Cal Ripken fought through it and helped lead the Orioles to the postseason. Cal hit .270 during the season but exploded in the ALDS and ALCS, hitting Mariners and Indians pitching at a .438 clip. This helmet was worn during that 1997 season and postseason by the Orioles legend and has been photo matched to Game 2 of the ALCS played on October 9th at Camden Yards by Resolution Photomatching. This was the only postseason home run of Ripken’s career. The black batting helmet shows tremendous game use. There are numerous scuffs and scratches found on the shell along with pine tar. The Orioles bird logo is intact on the front of the crown with some scuffing on its edges. Cal’s number “8” sticker is affixed to the rear of the helmet and this has partially come loose. The inside padding is intact and shows much perspiration staining. The American Baseball Cap size 7 3/8 label, MLB and warning stickers are present. “GAME” has been handwritten in silver marker on the underside of the brim while a perfect Cal Ripken, Jr. signature with “97” is found on the top side. This helmet comes with a LOA from Cal Ripken, Jr. for the game use and signature and a LOA from Resolution Photomatching (426076), who have photo matched this helmet to Game 2 of the ALCS played on October 9th, 1997. There is also a certificate from Beckett Authentication stating they witnessed Cal Ripken, Jr. signing this item.

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