Contract, signed “Roland Fingers,” six pages on three adjoining sheets, 8.5 x 11, March 2, 1973. American League uniform player’s contract in which Fingers agrees to render "skilled services as a baseball player during the year 1973" for the Oakland Athletics, for a salary of $45,000 plus "one year's supply of the very best mustache wax available," per a "Special Covenant" addendum at the end of the contract. Signed at the conclusion in ballpoint by Rollie Fingers, American League President Joe Cronin, and Oakland owner Charles O. Finley. In fine condition.
In 1972, A's owner Charlie Finley—famed as a colorful marketer and promoter—had offered a $300 bonus to any player who grew a mustache, challenging baseball's traditional clean-shaven look. This incentive gave birth to Rollie Fingers's trademark handlebar mustache, which he became as well known for as his ability to close out ballgames. Oakland's 'Mustache Gang' won the World Series in 1972, and went on to repeat as champion in 1973 and 1974. Fingers made his first of seven All-Star squads in 1973, and finished out the year with an impressive 1.92 ERA and 22 saves; in that year's World Series, he fashioned a 0.66 ERA over 13.2 innings and recorded two saves. This contract, from an important season and with a direct reference to Fingers's famed mustache, is a truly unique and exceptional piece. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
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