Description
The first edition, first printing of Countdown To Cobb: My Diary of the Record-Breaking 1985 Season, signed and dated “9/11/85” by Pete Rose.
Octavo, 224pp. Red cloth, title stamped in gilt on spine. Stated “First Edition” with a full number line on the copyright page. Light rubbing to gilt on front cover, otherwise a fine example. A letter from Tom Barnidge, editor of The Sporting News, notes that 2000 copies of this book were produced and all were signed by Pete Rose. The letter is not included with this copy. Signed on the front free endpaper: “Pete Rose / 9-11-85.”
On September 11, 1985, Pete Rose cemented his place in baseball history by breaking Ty Cobb’s all-time hits record with his 4,192nd career hit. Playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Rose lined a single off San Diego Padres pitcher Eric Show at Riverfront Stadium, igniting a celebration among fans and teammates. The moment solidified Rose’s legacy as “Charlie Hustle” and the undisputed Hit King, a title he still holds today with 4,256 career hits.
