Bill Buckner’s glove, cleats heading to auction

Baseball memorabilia collectors will have a chance to own two articles that were key players in the most famous — or infamous — error in World Series history 30 years ago.

The glove and cleats worn by Bill Buckner on the night he allowed Mookie Wilson's slow roller to get past him in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series will be sold by Goldin Auctions. Bidding begins October 10 on the MacGregor first baseman's mitt, a black model autographed by Buckner and inscribed to memorabilia collector Barry Halper. The back of the fingers on the glove are signed "To My Pal Barry, Best Wishes Bill Buckner," Goldin Auctions posted on its website.

Halper’s collection was sold to Sotheby’s in 1999, and a consigner bought the glove and cleats for $51,570, ESPN reported.
Buckner was playing first base in the bottom of the 10th inning of Game 6, and the Red Sox held a 3-2 series lead and were ahead 5-3 against the Mets. After getting two quick outs, Boston came unglued and the Mets tied the game when pitcher Bob Stanley threw a wild pitch that Wilson skipped to avoid.
After fouling off a few pitches, Wilson hit a slow grounder to first base that eluded Buckner and rolled into right field. The Mets won 6-5 and would win Game 7 to deny Boston its first World Series championship since 1918. The Red Sox would have to wait 19 years before finally capturing a Series crown.

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