New York: American Sports Publishing Co, 1940.

Baseball rule book (5"x7") with "Compliments of Ford C. Frick 1940" engraved on the cover.  Distributed to umpires and coaches, this copy bears the ownership signature of George L. Kelly, Hall of Fame first baseman, then a coach with the Boston Braves.

Frick was National League President from 1934 - 1951 and was the third commissioner of baseball, serving from 1951 - 1965.  

Kelly batted above the .300 mark in six consecutive seasons, drove in 100 or more runs in four straight seasons and became the first player in history to hit home runs in six straight games. Kelly was a member of four National League pennant winners and two World Series champions (1921, 1922).

In 1,622 games over 16 seasons, Kelly posted a .297 batting average and was known as both a clutch hitter and an excellent defensive first baseman.  He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1973.

A nice, still tight copy of a fragile item intended to be used.  Tiny chip to top and bottom of front cover and some slight discoloration along the edges.  

Unusual in this condition and even more so with the HOF'er association.