John Patsy Francona, known more affectionately as "Tito", had a long and productive career in the Majors from 1956-70. Signed by the St. Louis Browns in 1952, his pro career was delayed by a two-year stint in the Army. He made his Big League debut in 1956 with renamed and relocated Baltimore Orioles. As a rookie playing mostly right field for the O's, Tito batted .258 with 112 hits, 62 runs, 9 home runs and 57 RBI -- good enough for runner-up in the American League Rookie of the Year voting. He was traded after the '57 season and would play for eight other teams, bouncing around both leagues. His best years were with the Cleveland Indians ('59 to '64), the team for which his son, Terry, now manages.

Offered here is Tito's 1956 rookie season game worn and signed Orioles home jersey. He wore number 44 in Baltimore, and upon getting traded to the White Sox the team switched out the second "4" for a "7" and the jersey was then presumably carried over to another player at Spring Training. The vintage flannel zipper-up shirt has the classic "Orioles" sewn across the chest in orange cursive felt letters outlined in black. The team's Oriole bird logo is sewn on the left sleeve. Proper Wilson manufacturers tagging is found on the lower left tail with size "46", washing instructions and a hand-stitched strip label reading "Francona 56." Just above, Tito has added his autograph in black pen. The number "47" on the reverse, which has been changed as we noted, is done in the same color scheme as the front letters. An outline of the second "4" in Tito's number that was removed is clearly visible. Carry-overs like this were very common in that era, and the fact remains that this was Tito's rookie gamer in natural form. Game wear is moderate and consistent throughout, and the cream-colored polyester material has held up exceptionally well compared to most. The jersey is sourced from a very reliable Baltimore Orioles collector.