This rare, officially licensed Al Barlick baseball figure is a must-have for any MLB fan. This is the only signed statue ever made of an umpire. The figure stands at 7 inches tall and comes with a COA/Box, making it a perfect addition to any sports memorabilia collection. Al Barlick was a legendary MLB National League Umpire Crew member, known for his fair and impeccable performance on the field. This Gartlan USA, Inc. figure captures his likeness perfectly, making it a great gift for any baseball enthusiast. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own this unique piece of sports history.
    Barlick moved from the Minor Leagues to the Major Leagues in 1940 at age 26. He served in the Coast Guard from 1943-1945 during WWII. Barlick returned to umpiring in 1946, when he umpired his first World Series. Bill Klem, dean of all Major League umpires, gave his endorsement of Barlick that year: "There's a fellow who's going to be one of the great all-time umpires. He's got everything and knows how to handle himself. Before I saw him, I predicted he'd be a great umpire just from what I heard about him." 
    In 1947, Barlick was the first base umpire during Jackie Robinson's MLB debut. In 1949, Barlick was again chosen as an umpire for the 1949 All-Star Game. He was honored in 1955 with his own baseball card in the last Bowman set of 320. By that time he was considered one of the best in the game.
    In 1961, the Sporting News polled managers and coaches to determine the best umpires in the major leagues. Barlick was voted as the most respected umpire in the National League, as well as the best caller of balls and strikes, best on the bases, best knowledge of rules, best at being in the right position and most serious-minded. Barlick stated that the poll was a disgrace due to the lack of qualifications of the writers. In 1971, Barlick was awarded the Umpire of the Year Award based on a poll of other MLB umpires. He stated that the award was "very special," and that it was "a true, honorable, sincere award because it is given to an umpire by umpires." The 1971 season was Barlick's final year of umpiring, and he retired with seven All-Star Game appearances (1942, 1949, 1952, 1955, 1959, 1966, 1970), as well as seven World Series (1946, 1950, 1951, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1967). 

   Statue is listed as "Used", but is in beautiful condition, with no cracks, scratches or repairs. It also comes with the Mini Plate. Please closely examine the photos to see exactly what you are looking to purchase. The photos are a critical part of the Condition Description. It comes with a COA and is packed in its original box with the custom styrofoam insert, covered by heavy duty packing paper to keep the retail box as nice as when I got it. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own this rare and unique piece of history.

    This is part of a beautiful 20 figure collection of “Gartlan USA, Inc.” certified Autographed sports figurines (MLB, NFL and NBA) being sold by this long time Collector. These are literally some of the most lifelike statues of famous players ever produced. Look for the others to be listed soon.