First Run of the 1924 World Series

After struggling to beat the Brooklyn Dodgers for the National League pennant by only 1½ games, the New York Giants once again found themselves competing in their eighth World Series in fourteen years. Their challengers, the Washington Senators, had topped the American League and were determined to bring home a championship to the nation's capital. Game 1, played on Saturday, October 9, 1924 at Washington’s Griffith Stadium, promised a great Series as league-standout Walter Johnson and veteran Art Nehf went head-to-head. Leading off the 2nd inning, cleanup hitter, George “Highpockets” Kelly found his pitch and hit it far over The Big Train's head, striking the opening blow of what would be a thrilling seven game series. The Giants won Game 1, 4-3, in 12 innings.

This is the actual ball hit into the stands by the Hall of Famer, Kelly, that day – the first run of that exciting Fall Classic (won in the 12th inning of Game 7 by Washington). To think this ball was once held and pitched by the great Walter Johnson adds to its aura. The Official National League ball was later inscribed, "Kelley's (sic) home run ball hit into left field stand-World Series Oct. 9, 1924. Caught by John L. Signer" on the side panel.