This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/10/2004.
Originally, umpire selection for the World Series was based exclusively on merit, but by 1987 a rotation system as used. In 1990 the merit system returned, with the exception that preference was given to umpires who had not yet been given the World Series honor. I addition to players and front office personnel, umpires are also awarded rings upon completion of the World Series. This ring was given to umpire Ken Kaiser, who worked the 1987 Twins - Cardinals Series. The ring features a round diamond set flush into a baseball diamond, with four red ruby chips denoting the bases. Around this are the raised letters "World Series 1987 Umpire." On the right shank are two raised banners with the engraving "Minnesota Twins," with raised crossed bats, ball and glove. On the left shank are two raised banners with the engraving "St. Louis Cardinals," with raised umpire and diamond. Inside the 13 ½ size ring is engraved "Ken Kaiser 1987." A minor amount of black enamel on the shanks has chipped off, takes nothing away from this rare umpire's ring.