Raul Mondesi
MLB Outfielder and 1994 NL Rookie of the Year · Baseball - MLB
Los Angeles Dodgers
Era
Mid-1990s peak fame period (circa 1994-1998)
Item Type
Signed Baseball
Condition
Good to Very Good. The signature is clear and legible. The ball shows some slight yellowing/toning characteristic of being stored outside of a UV-protected case.
Rarity
Common. Mondesi was a frequent signer during his career and through the memorabilia circuit in the 2000s.
Overall Assessment
A solid, authentic-looking example of a mid-90s star. The presence of the award inscription makes it a 'premium' version of his common signature.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic. The signature reflects the specific shorthand style used by Mondesi during the mid-90s, notably the looped 'R' and the 'M' that often looks like a series of peaks followed by a tail.
Signature Style
Abbreviated cursive signature featuring a prominent 'R' and a stylized 'M'. includes the important 'R.O.Y. 94' inscription, denoting his Rookie of the Year award.
Signature Characteristics
The 'R' is formed with a tall vertical stroke and a loop that fails to close. The 'M' is compressed into a zig-zag. The inscription 'R.O.Y. 94' shows consistent spacing and pressure with the main signature.
Ink & Medium
Blue ballpoint pen on a white leather baseball. The ink shows slight saturation into the leather consistent with mid-range age.
Item Description
An unofficial or souvenir-grade white leather baseball with red stitching. It lacks the official MLB commissioner stamp found on game-ready balls.
Estimated Value
$40.00 - $75.00 USD. Value is bolsterered by the 'R.O.Y.' inscription but limited because Mondesi is a prolific signer and the ball is not an Official Major League Baseball (OMLB).
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches well with 1994-1996 era exemplars. Later in his career, his signature became even more simplified and 'scribbly'. The '94' is a classic touch for this era.
Authentication Tips
Look for a fluid, fast motion in the 'R'. Forgers often hesitate on the 'R.O.Y.' inscription. Authentic examples usually have a very vertical 'y' in 'Roy' as seen here.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA. Basic 'In-the-Presence' or 'Authentication' services would suffice. Costs roughly $20-30.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The ink flow and natural speed of the writing suggest it was signed by hand in a single motion.
Provenance Notes
The 'R.O.Y. 94' inscription suggests this may have been signed at a fan convention or team event shortly after he won the award in late 1994 or early 1995.
Historical Context
Raul Mondesi was a key part of the Dodgers' 'Rookie of the Year' streak in the 1990s. He was known for his incredible 'five-tool' talent and a legendary throwing arm.
Market Trends
Stable. Mondesi remains a fan favorite for 90s Dodgers collectors, though his market value peaked decades ago. Interest in his son, Adalberto Mondesi, occasionally creates small spikes in interest.
Investment Potential
Low. This is a sentimental piece for a Dodgers collector rather than an appreciating financial asset.
Similar Autographs
Hideo Nomo, Mike Piazza, Todd Hollandsworth, Eric Karros (the 90s Dodgers Rookie of the Year run).
Display & Preservation
Place in a UV-protected acrylic cube. Avoid touching the ink directly with fingers to prevent skin oils from causing the signature to bleed over time.
Interesting Facts
Mondesi won his ROY award unanimously. After baseball, he entered politics in the Dominican Republic and served as the mayor of San Cristobal.