This striking Helmar art card captures Gil McDougald in a fluid follow-through, the right-handed hitter
frozen in mid-swing against an abstracted ballpark backdrop. The simplified blocks of color—red grandstand,
powder-blue wall, and olive-green infield—create a rhythmic modernist composition that echoes both midcentury
design and baseball’s timeless motion. The pinstriped uniform and navy cap stand in crisp contrast,
their precision balanced by painterly textures that lend the image warmth and immediacy.

McDougald, a key figure of the Yankees’ 1950s dynasty, was renowned for his versatility and poise under
pressure. The 1951 American League Rookie of the Year, he played every infield position and appeared in
eight World Series, helping New York claim five championships during his decade-long career. His calm,
intelligent style made him a cornerstone of the Yankees’ golden era, and a model of quiet excellence in the
team’s storied history.

The Helmar “This Great Game” series celebrates the artistry and spirit of baseball’s golden age through handcrafted
design and nostalgic craftsmanship. Each card, printed on thick, lightly aged stock, merges vintage
charm with modern artistic interpretation. Card No. 1 stands as a fitting tribute to McDougald’s enduring
grace and Helmar’s dedication to fine baseball art.

Original gouache painting by Sanjay Verma.