1981 Topps–Bombo Rivera #256

I’m collecting the 1981 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Bombo Rivera – Minnesota Twins – Card #256
• Purchase Price – $0.05 (part of a lot – 100/$4.99)
• On the back (toon, bottom left) – Led American Association with 14 Triples at Denver in 1977.
• On the back (toon, bottom right) – Belted Blue Jays’ pitching for .571 average in 1979.
• On the back – Bombo led Twins’ outfielders with 12 assists in ‘79.
• Signed by the Montreal Expos as an amateur free agent in 1970.
• Debut – April 17, 1975
• 1975-1976 (Expos), 1978-1980 (Twins), 1982 (Royals)
• Born in Ponce, PR

Bombo is a nickname that means “Fly Ball.”  His real name is Jesus Manuel Rivera Torres.  He played all 3 outfield positions but only played center field once.  In 1977 and 1981 he played in the minors.  After 1982 he played in the minors and then later in his career played in Japan.

• Cards I have posted in this set – 12
• Total price paid – $1.14
• Average price per card – $0.10
• Cards left to post – 714

I vaguely remember this card, even the photo stands out to me.  But I’m guessing I looked at it more because of his name, probably made fun of it.  Hey, I was only 8.