November 19, 2020: Fall Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/19/2020
One of a very scarce number of MLB players to die while still active. Our consignor obtained this signature at Wrigley Field (home plate side of first base dugout) in 1963 while Umbricht was at the height of his powers as a better relief pitcher for the expansion Houston Colt .45's. Unknown was that Umbricht had undergone cancer surgery in the off season and was still battling the disease during that season. He signed a scorecard, and his signature was "cut", to eliminate advertising, etc. Umbricht lost his battle with cancer on April 8, 1964. Also included his somewhat iconic 1964 Topps card #389, which had to be altered prior to its release. Umbricht is also in demand as a member of the 1960 World Champion Pittsburgh Pirates (his first team), and the Houston Colt .45's as an original player on their 1962 expansion team. The cut signature arrives slabbed and authenticated by BAS.
Jim Umbricht Cut Signature with 1964 Topps Card (BAS)
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