Lot # 26: 1943 Elbie Fletcher Pittsburgh Pirates Home Game-Used Jersey and Pants with Phil Wood LOA - Extremely Rare Style

Extremely rare 1943 Pittsburgh Pirates home uniform (jersey and pants) belonging to first baseman Elbie Fletcher, a 12-year Major Leaguer. This game-used set originates from Fletcher's All-Star season of 1943 before he enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country alongside many other ballplayers. Produced by Wilson Sporting Goods, the size 44 flannel jersey and size 38 pants display exceptionally well, with bold red and blue lettering and trim across the chest, down the zipper front, and on the waistband and seams of the pants. The team name "Pirates" is appliqued in crisp red felt set against blue trim, with the same for the block numbered "3" on the reverse. The left sleeve features a stars and stripes shield patch worn throughout Major League Baseball during World War II from 1942 to 1945. "Fletcher" is chain stitched inside the collar beneath manufacturer and size tagging. The pants display a chain stitched "Brandt," suggesting they were produced for Pirates pitcher Bill Brandt, who also appeared on the 1943 roster. The jersey remains in exceptional condition overall. It is crisp and clean with a few small imperfections due to its age. There is slight separation in the stitching of the nameplate in the collar and on the reverse numeral. The pants are in modest condition overall, with noticeable repairs in multiple areas on the back pant legs as well as holes in the front knee area of both sides and a tear on the rear pocket. This is an outstanding combination, highlighted by a particularly rare and desirable jersey top. Accompanied by a LOA from Phil Wood.