Displayed is a 1956 Phil Rizzuto retirement base that was presented to the Hall of Fame New York Yankees shortstop in his final season. Rizzuto, known as "the Scooter," he was only listed as 5'6', and 150 lbs. He played his entire Major League career with the Yankees, from 1941-56, missing the 1943-45 seasons while serving with the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was on 10 AL pennant winners and seven World Championship teams. A terrific defensive player, when Rizzuto retired, he was second on the all-time Major League list for double plays for a shortstop (1,217) and second on the all-time AL list for fielding average for a shortstop (.968). Rizzuto was the AL MVP in 1950, when he batted .324, with 200 hits and 92 walks. He was an amazing bunter and an effective base stealer. After his playing career, he was a famed New York Yankee broadcaster, and he was well-known for his trademark claim of amazement, when he would exclaim, "Holy Cow!" The offered bag comes right from the Rizzuto family collection, and it includes a signed letter from his wife, Cora. The offered bag is a canvas style base measuring approx. 12x12", with a height of two inches, that was used during the 1950s. It has a strap that goes through the base and fastens on the back that would hold it to the ground. "Phil RIZZUTO" is hand-painted on the top of the base. This was given to Rizzuto by the Yankees after his retirement as a player during the 1956 season. Presumably, it is a base used at 2nd; the letter from Cora has a picture of the base, but mistakenly says it is "Home Base." The base is in nice condition, yet it shows fine game use. The offering is a wonderful remembrance for an all-time New York Yankee legend.