Scarce 1945 St Louis Browns “Champions American League 1944” Program.
Lot 223. Scarce 1945 St Louis Browns “Champions American League 1944” Program. This unusual die-cut 28-page program, which is similar to a yearbook, celebrates the Browns’ 1944 success and introduces one-armed outfielder Pete Gray as “perhaps the most talked-about rookie of the new season.” It was prepared for the team’s May 1, 1945 game (vs. Cleveland) for the “Raising of the first American League Pennant won by the St. Louis Browns.” The 1944 Browns finished a game ahead of the Detroit Tigers to win the American League Championship. After leading the Browns to their only A.L. title, Luke Sewell was selected as “The Sporting News” Manager of the Year. In the World Series, with all games at Sportsman’s Park, the Browns lost in six games to their neighbors, the St. Louis Cardinals. The program is vg with a ½” cover tear that also affects that first page and some creases and small scuffs. The pages are generally ex. The program contains a photo of the 1944 team and individual photos of 10 players and 10 rookies, including Gray. Minimum Bid $65.