PHIL RIZZUTO - QUESTIONNAIRE SIGNED - HFSID 290889

PHIL RIZZUTO
Handwritten response to a play in the 1947 World Series: "amazing how a great defensive play turns a game around"
Questionnaire signed: "Phil Rizzuto", 1 page, 8½x10½. Asked for comment on Al Gionfriddo's catch in the 1947 World Series, Rizzuto writes, in full: "Hi Richard - Excuse my writing - have arthritis in wrist and can't bend it. That catch by Al was one of the 10 most let-downs I've ever experienced - the only time Joe D showed any emotion, kicking the dust at 2nd base. We lost that game, but fortunately won the Series. Amazing how a great defensive play turns the game around. Best regards". Rizzuto (1916-2007, born Phillip Francis Rizzuto in Brooklyn, New York) was an All-Star shortstop five times, and he was named the American League MVP in 1950, when he peaked with a .324 average and 200 hits. Rizzuto played on nine pennant winners and seven World Champions over his 13-year career. He was one of the most skillful bunters of all time. A long-time Yankee broadcaster known for his exclamation, "Holy cow!" Rizzuto saw his uniform #10 retired by the club in 1985. He entered the Hall of Fame in 1994. Playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers in Game Six of the 1947 World Series, Al Gionfriddo ran down what had looked to be a home run by Joe Dimaggio. The Dodgers won the game 8-6, but lost the Series the next day. Gionfriddo never played in the Majors again. Multiple mailing folds. Fine condition.