This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/8/2016.
George Wright played shortstop for the original Cincinnati Red Stockings, the first fully professional team, and was the game's best player. In 1868, Wright won the Clipper Medal for being the best shortstop in baseball and was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937. This cricket ball was used by the baseball pioneer as a boy in New York. While transitioning from cricket to baseball, this ball was uncovered with a piece of tape across the front that read, "CRICKET BALL BELONGING TO GEORGE WRIGHT ABOUT 1860." The handwriting is from his grandson, George Wright II. Being from so long ago, the leather has worn off leaving just some composite material. The leather markings (where it was) are visible on the ball.