Jim "Catfish" Hunter (1946-1999). Hall of Fame Baseball Legend. Document Signed, being a 1977 Topps baseball card, as a New York Yankee, no place, no date, measures approximately 2.5 in. by 3.5 in. Boldly signed in blue feltip across the image: "Jim Catfish Hunter".

One of the dominating pitchers of his era, Hunter had a stellar career with the Oakland A's and NY Yankees. He led the A's pitching staff with 21 wins from 1971-1973, and 25 wins in 1974. In each of those four seasons, Oakland won their division, and three times were World Champions. Hunter was 4-0 with one save in seven A's WS appearances.

Hunter was declared a free agent for 1975 by arbitrator Peter Seitz when Finley failed to pay $50,000, half of Hunter's salary, to a life-insurance fund. Hunter signed with the Yankees for $3.5 million, by far the largest amount ever paid a player to that point, inspiring others, especially A's stars, to seek free agency. In 1975, his first season in New York, Catfish went 23-14, tying with Jim Palmer for the league lead in wins and topping the AL in complete games and innings pitched. However, he took the loss in the '75 All-Star Game. He helped the Yankees to three straight pennants (1976-78) despite declining effectiveness due to arm strain and diabetes. After going 2-9 in 1979, Hunter retired at age 33. Though continuing to assist the Yankees in spring training, his priorities remained on his farm in Hertford, NC.

He was an All-Star in 1966-67, 70, 72-76; he led the league in wins in 1974-75, ERA in 1974; compiled a lifetime W-L record of 224-166 with a lifetime ERA of 3.26. He pitched a perfect game in 1968, and won the Cy Young award in 1974.

Comes with a PSA/DNA Certificate of Authenticity. Card ranks mint to near mint, and is in fine condition. $125.00