This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/31/2005.
Known as the "Lou Gehrig" of the Dodgers, Gil Hodges was a New York hero. He played one game for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1943 before promptly joining the Marines, only to return to baseball in 1947. Originally a catcher, he was moved to first base with the emergence of Roy Campanella, and that is where he made his mark. In 1950 he hit four homers in one game. In the 1953 World Series he hit .364, and he homered in each of his last four World Series, with game winners in 1956 and 1959. An original Met, Hodges closed out his playing career at the Polo Grounds and hit the first home run in Mets history. Hodges was traded to Washington as a manager in 1963 but came back to the Mets and led them to their first World Championship in 1969. August 24, 1962 was designated "Gil Hodges Night" at the Polo Grounds in New York, where the fledgling Mets honored the New York legend who had returned home. They defeated Don Drysdale and the Dodgers 6-3 that evening, making it an especially poignant moment for Hodges. This heavy 19" x 20-1/2" wooden plaque that was presented to Gil Hodges on that special evening features a bronze scroll centerpiece with laurel leaves and raised lettering that reads, "Gil Hodges Night, It is with deep pride that the New York Mets salute one of their own, Gil Hodges, A great ball player and a fine gentleman. For eleven years he was the pride of Brooklyn and his fans have never wavered in their loyalty. Polo Grounds, New York, August 24, 1962." Originally obtained directy from the Hodges family in 1989. The plaque is in overall NRMT-MINT condition.