Hall of Fame catcher Ernie Lombardi played for the New York Giants toward the end of his illustrious 17-year career, which spanned from 1931 to 1947. The eight-time All Star and 1938 National League MVP had his greatest successes during his 10-season tenure with the Cincinnati Reds, including a World Series championship in 1940. Lombardi was a large man and notoriously slow-footed, often leading the league in hitting into double plays, yet he compiled an impressive .306 career batting average. His arm was legendary, and he was among the best in the business at calling games from behind the plate. Lombardi caught Cincinnati pitcher Johnny Vander Meer's two back-to-back no-hitters in June, 1938. Lombardi came to New York in 1943 and played for the Giants through 1947. This gray flannel jersey is one that he wore circa 1946. The zip-front jersey has "New York" across the front in blue on red felt lettering; Lombardi's number 8 appears on the back in the same blue on red felt. There is a Gold Smith size 48 tag in the collar above a felt patch with "Lombardi" embroidered in red. Two rows of red and blue piping outline the hem of each sleeve; the piping also encircles the collar and extends down the front of the jersey on both sides of the zipper. This vintage jersey is in remarkable condition, with minor soiling around the collar and several light stain spots on the left sleeve and right shoulder. A terrific piece of baseball history from the days of the Polo Grounds.