1997 Dodgers Team-Signed Baseball (18) Mike Piazza, Ramon Martinez, etc. – COA JSA

The 1996 Los Angeles Dodgers season saw the Dodgers remain atop the standings most of the season. However, longtime manager Tommy Lasorda suffered a heart attack in mid-season and had to step down. Bill Russell, Lasorda’s bench coach, and a former Dodger player were chosen to manage the rest of the season.

The Dodgers went into the final weekend of the season with a two-game lead on the San Diego Padres, needing only to win one of the final three games with the Padres to clinch the National League Western Division crown. However, the Padres swept the Dodgers and they limped into the playoffs as a Wild Card team. The Dodgers were swept by the Atlanta Braves in the National League Division Series.

The Dodgers used 15 different pitchers during the season, the fewest of any MLB team in 1996.

Offered here is Dodgers ball signed by 18 members. Signature signed blue felt pen and grades (10), Bill Russell on the sweet spot. Followed by Mike Piazza, Dave Hansen, Tim Wallach, Ramón Martínez, Rick Parker, Tom Candiotti, Juan Castro, Tim Wallach, Eric Karros, Reggie Smith and 17 more. Authentication: JSA Auction House Letter