The Patch Card in 1952 Topps
A staple of modern collecting, patch cards take on a different meaning when trying to pin down when a player was photographed for his card.
Set Collecting
We’ll Never See Another…Never Mind
Nolan Ryan’s retirement came at the same time as the emergence of a nearly identical pitcher.
Say “Cheese!”
Chris Van Cuyk looks absolutely thrilled to be on his first baseball card. It looks like he is saying, “cheese” for the photo, but when did people start doing this when posing for pictures?
Murry Dickson the Magician
Distraction and sleight of hand work together to create successful performances of magic tricks. Murry Dickson was a master of both and employed these skills to create one of the most steady pitching performances of a career that reached into parts of three decades. This story has it all, from card tricks and baseballs that seemingly pass through opposing bats to vanishing bank robbers and an arm that made Father Time a liar.
Lucky Number 27
How is Bob Welch assigned card #151 in the ’93 Finest checklist? He should be card #27. That number, after all, is one that appears several times in his career.
Willie Mays Isn’t Here, Perhaps Chuck Diering Can Help You Instead?
Almost immediately following Willie Mays in the 1952 Topps checklist is the guy hired specifically to replace him. Also, I need to get some sunscreen.
A Good Looking Card With a Less Attractive Legacy
If I ever get one of those little yappy dogs that thinks it is always right and ten times its actual size I’m going to name it Solly. The name just fits.
Promising Pitcher and Low-Key Car Connoisseur Erik Hanson
High performance and the occasional physical breakdown. Whether one is talking about a BMW 8-Series or pitcher Erik Hanson the combination is worth it.
A Pitcher with a Perfect Game in Retirement
In keeping with the recent unexpected bowling theme, I take a look at professional bowler John Burkett. Baseball fans probably know him as a key pitcher with the Giants and Red Sox.