When Hall of Fame catcher Ted Simmons retired as a player in 1988, he led all catchers with 483 doubles and was second only to the legendary Yogi Berra in RBI with 1,389. Simmons often gets overlooked when compared to fellow catchers Johnny Bench, Carlton Fisk, Mike Piazza and Berra. However, Simmons was an eight-time All-Star and was the recipient of the 1980 Silver Slugger Award. With a .285 career average, 248 home runs and 1,389 RBI as a catcher, his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2019 was long overdue.
Offered here is a very rare game used jersey from Ted Simmons. This Rawlings size 44 road gray pullover St. Louis Cardinals jersey was used by Simmons during his 1975 season in which he hit 18 home runs and had 100 RBI, all while maintaining a lofty .332 average. This jersey has been photo matched to a Sports Illustrated photograph showing Simmons in the dugout at Atlanta Stadium in a game versus the Atlanta Braves on August 15, 1975. The front has “Cardinals”, along with a gold bat and two perched cardinals on each end in red, navy and gold chenille stitching. Simmons’ number “23” is sewn on the front in red and navy tackle twill. The red Rawlings tag, along with the “SET 1 #8P 1975” flag is sewn on the inside front bottom tail.
The back of the jersey has “SIMMONS” and “23” sewn on in red and navy tackle twill. The V-neck collar and sleeve ends are bordered with navy, white and red ribbed material stripes. This jersey displays moderate game use with some faded dirt stains on the front and right side. Simmons has signed his name in black marker on the front below and to the left of his number and inscribed “#23”. A great gamer from one of the best offensive catchers in baseball history and worn during his prime. This jersey comes with a LOA from Sports Investors Authentication, who have authenticated this jersey and photo matched it to the August 15, 1975 game. There is also a LOA from JSA (BB36676) for the signature.
Click Here to View the Photograph of Ted Simmons Wearing This Jersey on August 15, 1975