David Eckstein
2006 World Series MVP and 2-time MLB All-Star · Baseball - MLB
St. Louis Cardinals / Anaheim Angels
Era
Circa 2005-2010 (Post-World Series Victory era)
Item Type
Autographed Baseball
Condition
Near Mint; the ball remains white with no visible toning/spotting, and the ink is bold without bleeding.
Rarity
Common; Eckstein was a willing signer during his career and remains accessible at public appearances.
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, authenticated piece of memorabilia for a championship-era Cardinals or Angels collector.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic; 95% confidence level based on PSA/DNA documentation and signature flow.
Signature Style
Cursive script with a prominent 'D' loop and a sharp, vertical 'E' transition; typical for his late-career speed-sign style.
Signature Characteristics
Fluid motion with consistent pen pressure; the signature slants slightly upward toward the end.
Ink & Medium
Black felt-tip permanent marker (Sharpie) on modern synthetic leather baseball surface.
Item Description
Single-signed baseball with vertical red stitching, likely an Official Major League Baseball (OMLB) or high-quality replica.
Estimated Value
$40 - $75 USD (Includes premium for PSA/DNA certification and World Series MVP status).
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches verified exemplars from his 2006 St. Louis Cardinals era perfectly.
Authentication Tips
Look for the distinctive high-loop 'D' and the way the 'k' and 's' are often compressed into a single wave-like motion.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA (already present/visible), JSA, or Beckett.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the pen weight and stroke speed are consistent with his natural hand.
Provenance Notes
Accompanied by a PSA/DNA Certificate of Authenticity card visible in the background of the display case.
Historical Context
Eckstein is a 'cult hero' in baseball known for his grit; he won World Series titles with both the Angels (2002) and Cardinals (2006).
Market Trends
Stable; demand is highest among Cardinals and Angels fans, especially those collecting World Series MVPs.
Investment Potential
Low to moderate; while a fan favorite, his autographs are plentiful on the secondary market.
Similar Autographs
Albert Pujols, Scott Rolen, Jim Edmonds, Yadier Molina.
Display & Preservation
Keep in a UV-protected cube; store away from direct sunlight to prevent the black marker from fading to brown/purple.
Interesting Facts
Eckstein is one of the shortest MVPs in history and was famous for using the smallest bat in the Major Leagues.