Coming off their first World Series title, the Brooklyn Dodgers of 1956 were easily the favorite to win the National League pennant again, and were one Don Larsen perfect game from winning a second consecutive World Series. This season was also a transition year for the Bums for several reasons. First, they converted from the offensive power teams of the 1950s to the pitching rich teams of the 1960s. This 1956 season marked the final season in uniform for Jackie Robinson, Roy Campanella’s career would tragically end a year later, but it was the first year for 19-year-old Don Drysdale and 20-year-old Sandy Koufax’s second season. Also, this was the penultimate season for the Dodgers in rabid Brooklyn, NY. One could imagine if the Dodgers would still be playing in Brooklyn if they won the World Series again in 1956.
The toned Official National League Giles ball has 27 blue and black ink signatures (“6-7”, a few lesser) with Walter Alston (manager) and Billy Herman (coach) (sweet spot), Don Newcombe, Ransom Jackson, Clem Labine, Rube Walker, Don Zimmer and Don Elston (south panel); Don Drysdale, Joe Becker (coach), Ed Roebuck, Carl Erskine, Roy Campanella, Jim Hughes (north panel); Duke Snider (clubhouse), Jackie Robinson, Chuck Templeton, Charles Thompson, Sandy Koufax, Charlie Neal, Sandy Amoros, Gil Hodges, Gino Cimoli (west panel); Dixie Howell, Dick Williams, Roger Craig and Dave Cole (east panel). The presence of Elston, Cole and Thompson pinpoint the balls signing specifically to Spring Training.
Ball exhibits moderate uniform toning and solid league stampings. In overall very good condition. Accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity from James Spence Authentication (JSA).