During most of his career, which lasted from 1924 to 1935, Earle Combs (nicknamed “The Kentucky Colonel”) played centerfield and batted leadoff for the powerful New York Yankees. He had a 325 career batting average and was part of three World Series championships, including the “Murderer’s Row” team of 1927, which is considered by many to be the greatest team in baseball history. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1970.

This glove was worn by Combs when he patrolled centerfield at Yankee Stadium. Babe Ruth played rightfield during Combs’ career. Combs’ blazing speed helped him get to catch a number of flyballs that Ruth could not have flagged down. It was common knowledge that he made Ruth look good in the outfield.

Combs’ glove comes from his niece, Margaret Combs Nelson, and her letter is a fun read.

Earle Combs, Hall of Fame, Yankee centerfielder, 1924-1935.