Two of the most feared hitters of the 1950s rarely got together on the field. It was long before interleague play and during that decade, they never met in a World Series. So when they appeared in the same place—presumably at the 1956 All-Star Game, photographers couldn’t resist the opportunity to grab a picture.
Our RMY Auctions Photo of the Day showcases Mickey Mantle and Ted Kluzewski when both were in their prime. This 5×7 photo was taken by legendary photographer Don Wingfield and has his 1950s era stamp on the back along with a file copyright date of 1960. It’s among more than 300 images up for bid in RMY’s August auction, set to close Tuesday night.
1956 was Mantle’s Triple Crown season…his ‘favorite summer’ as he called it later. And who wouldn’t have fond memories of a World Series championship, the first of three MVP awards, earned with a .353 average, 52 home runs and 130 RBI?
The Mick was at his best, but Kluzewski was no slouch either. The photo shows Big Klu in his trademark cutoff sleeves and powerful arms he used to hit .302, belt 35 homers and drive in 102 runs in just 138 games. Back problems had begun plaguing the NL slugger, though and 1956 would be his last great season.
The photo has already proven to be among the most popular in the auction. You can register and bid via RMYAuctions.com.
Related Stories:
Photo of the Day: Image Used for 1960 Topps Rival All-Stars Card
Photo of the Day: Mickey Mantle Card Show Appearance, 1989
One of Earliest Mantle Yankees Photos at Auction
Photo of the Day: The First Robinsons of Spring
Photo Used for Mantle’s 1958 Topps All-Star Card at Auction
Image Captures Mickey Mantle’s Powerful Swing During ’61 Chase
Photo Used for 1950s Mantle Regional Cards Up for Bid
Photo of Maris Signing 1959 Armour Cards at Auction
Photo of the Day: Roger Maris and Sal Durante With Home Run Ball #61
Photo of the Day: Stan the Man and Mantle
