1952 Topps: Smiling Joe Presko
I have to admit it. Joe Presko is the youngest looking player appearing in the 1952 Topps checklist, a trait that likely contributed heavily to his nicknames “Baby Joe”...
1952 Topps Profile
An Off-Centered 1952 Topps Card [Could Have] Led to a Mike Piazza and Roger Clemens Friendship
Dodgers pitcher Ben Wade hit two home runs as a rookie off Warren Spahn and that’s not even the interesting part.
1952 Topps: Meet Joe Black
One of the best Dodgers pitching performances is hiding in the text of a ’52 high number.
You’re Supposed To
Faye Throneberry and I grew up in entirely different worlds. I never knew high school could be optional.
Filling in the Blanks with Johnny Kucab
Another budget high number joins the 1952 Topps set building project. There is some blank space on the back for collectors to consider.
The Argument I’m Not Making (Except Maybe I Am)
I would not have voted for Mike Garcia to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, but I absolutely would want him to at least be in the conversation when ballots are printed. Time for an argument.
Gallows Humor in the Bullpen
I’ve never seen the movie Fargo, but I have seen a guy in a wood chipper. After that alarming note, I feel I have some explaining to do.
Every Team Needs a Catcher (or Four, or Five…)
1952 Topps is overflowing with catchers, even if they didn’t stay in one place very long.
1952 Topps: Johnny Schmitz
Johnny Schmitz threw an entire decade with the Cubs and is portrayed as a Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher in the 1952 Topps baseball card checklist, yet he will always be a Washington Senator in my mind.
I Can’t Think of a Golf Pun Title…But I Should
Lou Kretlow probably should shout “Fore!” whenever he gets a ball in his hand. After all, this wild pitcher was much better at golf than baseball.