Babe Ruth’s first and last contracts with the New York Yankees are heading to auction. Goldin Auctions has included the items as a part of their October Legends Auction which starts on October 6th.
Babe’s first contract with the Yankees actually occurred in 1922 with an annual salary of $52,000 and included options for the 1923 and 1924 seasons. While Ruth had already played 2 seasons with the Yankees at that point, he was still bound by his prior contract that was in effect with the Boston Red Sox. The $52K that Babe was offered starting in 1922, was more than double the record held up to that point, $25K, which was Ty Cobb’s salary for the 1921 season. The contract also containts some additional unique requirements. These include Ruth not being allowed liquor and staying out past 1AM during the season without permission. The 1922 Yankees contract is signed by Babe as “George Herman Ruth,” Yankees owner Jacob Ruppert and American League President Ban Johnson.
Babe Ruth 1922 Contract With Yankees
Babe Ruth 1922 Contract With Yankees Signed Page
The second Babe Ruth contract is for 1934. While his salary had been significantly reduced from its 30/31 peak of $80,000 to $35,000, Ruth’s contract was still the highest in baseball for that year. In addition, the contract included a clause that provided Babe with additional funds for “exhibition games played during the regular championship season.” The 1934 contract is signed by Ruth, owner Colonel Ruppert, Yankees General Manager Ed Barrow, and AL President William Harridge.
1934 Babe Ruth Yankees Contract
Definitely some exciting pieces for collectors and memorabilia fans to pay attention to!
