They Don’t Make ERA Titles Like They Used To
The intricacies of how pitchers qualify for statistical leadership awards can sometimes produce illogical results.
1952 Topps Profile
The Best Pitcher Appearing in the 1952 Topps Set
I’m just as surprised as you are, but Robin Roberts ends up as my highest ranked pitcher among all who appear in the ’52 Topps set.
1952 Topps: Johnny Sain
This pitcher posted a better batting average than Ted Williams in 1947. Move over Shohei Ohtani.
’52 Topps: Bob Rush
The subject of a comical Norman Rockwell painting became the Cubs’ best pitcher for a decade.
“Joe Expects to Come Up Again”
Those are the words Topps chose to end the biography on the back of Joe Page’s 1952 baseball card. He hadn’t pitched since helping the Yankees win the 1950 World Series.
Dave Winfield’s 1952 Topps Predecessor
Walt Dropo was drafted by pro baseball, basketball, and football teams.
Kenneth David Raffensberger: Longest Name in the ’52 Topps Set
“Rosinbagger! You’re going into the game.” – A Cubs manager, probably
This Was Almost Earl Torgeson’s Final Card
Torgeson had a near miss with death in 1953, one that may have influenced a later hobby.