A September call-up in 1937, Washington Senators outfielder George Case logged only 93 plate appearances that year, retaining his rookie status for 1938. He was signed for a one-year deal, by "The Old Fox" himself, Hall of Fame team owner Clark Griffith. Case proved Griffith a wise businessman, as he batted .305 for his 1938 rookie campaign. Griffith upped the ante for the 1939 season, to retain Case's services, and the result were even better, with Case batting .302, with a league leading 51 stolen bases, and his first of 4 All-Star Game appearances. Key components of the signing negotiations are on the table, with these (2) Griffith signed 1938 documents.



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1/4/38 American League of Professional Baseball Clubs Uniform Player's Contract, offering George Case $3,500 for the 1938 Senators season. Hall of Famer Griffith has boldly signed ("9") on the second page, of this four-page contract, which remains crisp and clean.



12/27/38 Contract cover letter, with Griffith cordially stating his appreciation of Case re-signing with the Senators. The second paragraph of this typed letter is the payoff, with Griffith writing "It certainly is nice to do business with you boys who are willing to cooperate with me, and while I think the contract I sent you is about the right figure for this year, I am going to give you the benefit of the doubt and enclose herewith contract in the amount of $5,500 for the season.". Clark concluded this letter with another bold signature, showing ("8.5") potency, with very slight ink migration.



Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA.

Opening Bid $150.