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Helmar T4, #35
Phil RIZZUTO (HOF)

Picture, Helmar Brewing, Helmar T4 Card # 35, Phil RIZZUTO (HOF), Leaning, ball in mitt, New York YankeesPicture, Helmar Brewing, Helmar T4 Card # 35, Phil RIZZUTO (HOF), Leaning, ball in mitt, New York Yankees
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Phil Rizzuto is presented in Helmar’s T4 series with the New York Americans in a low, forward-leaning defensive pose, his body stretched toward the play as his glove reaches outward with the baseball visible in its pocket. The white pinstriped Yankees uniform, dark blue cap, blue undersleeves, and matching stockings give the figure an unmistakable New York identity, while the wide stance and lowered right hand create a strong sense of balance and quick reaction. Unlike the earlier T4 Rizzuto card, which presents him standing casually with a bat, this image emphasizes the defensive skill and agility that made him one of the outstanding shortstops of his era.

The original artwork was painted by Natalia Valiukavich in watercolor. She develops the pinstriped uniform with pale cream, gray, ochre, and muted blue washes, allowing the narrow vertical stripes to remain visible across the bending figure. The saturated blue cap, sleeves, and stockings provide the principal color accents, while the large tan glove becomes the dominant focal point at the left edge of the composition. The visible baseball inside the glove reinforces the instant of the completed fielding play. Behind Rizzuto, the green field, low stadium wall, advertising panels, and pale overcast sky are handled more softly, giving the figure depth without distracting from the defensive action.

Philip Francis “Phil” Rizzuto became one of the defining shortstops of the New York Yankees dynasty of the 1940s and 1950s. Nicknamed “The Scooter,” he was known for his quickness, exceptional range, dependable hands, bunting ability, and intelligent baserunning. His major-league career was interrupted by three years of service in the United States Navy during World War II, but he returned to become an essential part of one of the most successful teams in baseball history.

Rizzuto was selected to five All-Star teams and won the American League Most Valuable Player Award in 1950, when he batted .324, scored 125 runs, and provided outstanding defense at shortstop. During his thirteen seasons with New York, the Yankees won ten American League pennants and seven World Series championships. His value extended beyond conventional statistics, as his ability to move runners, turn double plays, handle difficult ground balls, and contribute in important situations made him an ideal player for championship clubs. After retiring, Rizzuto became a beloved Yankees broadcaster for several decades.

Numbered #35, this Rizzuto card complements his earlier T4 appearance by presenting him in the defensive role for which he was most highly regarded. The forward bend, extended glove, visible baseball, bright pinstriped uniform, and softened ballpark background give card #35 a distinctly athletic character within the series. Rizzuto’s 1950 American League MVP Award, five All-Star selections, seven World Series championships, and long association with the Yankees make him one of the most important New York subjects in the issue. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994.

Original watercolor artwork by Natalia Valiukavich.

 

  • Description: Leaning, ball in mitt
  • Team: New York Yankees
  • Population (# Sold): 15
  • First Date Sold: 2022-12-28
  • Latest Date Sold: 2026-07-07
  • Card Status: Active
  • # Sold in past year: 3
  • Highest Auction: $ 33.00
  • Average Auction Result: $ 19.64

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