Today’s 9–Harold Baines page 3

I keep my White Sox collection by players last name. When that player reaches 9 cards (a page), they get a post in the Today’s 9 series. I just recently moved all my cards into alphabetical order so most of these posts are just catching up and making sure everybody get’s their due.

HAROLD BAINES

Cards (L-R) – (top row) 1997 Bowman, 1997 Skybox Metal Universe, 1997 Score

(middle row) 1997 Topps Finest Warriors, 2005 Donruss Diamond King (#’d 70/100), 1987 Fleer Baseball’s Game Winners

(bottom row) 1987 Fleer, 1986 Topps mini, 2006 Parody Playing cards

Played with the Sox from 1980-1989, 1996-1997, 2000-2001

Was All-Star in 1985-1987, 1989, 1991, 1999

Won a Silver Slugger award in 1989

Card back info –

“At the plate, Baines, the definition of a “pro,” has hit 10+ HR’s in 17 straight seasons.  His .305 AVG since turning 34 is the highest of any 4 year period in his career.  In the clubhouse, his longevity and production are an inspiration” – 1997 Topps Finest Warriors

“The smooth-swinging Baines belted 10 career walk-off home runs, including a blast that ended the longest game ever played in the Major Leagues.  On May9, 1984 against Milwaukee, he connected in the bottom of the 25th inning, after more than eight hours.” – 2005 Donruss Diamond Kings

“Harold ranked #5 in hits with 198, #6 in Batting Avg. with .309, #7(tie) in GW-RBI with 13 and #9 in Total Bases with 299.” – 1986 Topps mini

Cards in Sox uniform that I own currently – 27

I had already done the Baines pages but I added a bunch from trades and finished another page, so here it is.  I added 4 cards which made an exact 9 for this page.  Not much back info as most of the cards list stats and he’s played many years filling up the backs.

Package from Blue Batting Helmet

I got an email from Rob asking if I wanted a White Sox car flag that he had picked up somewhere.  He said it was the old Sox logo that he knows that I like.  I said sure, so he sent away.  I was pleasantly surprised when I received it last week.

The above mentioned flag, which is way cool.  But along with that he sent this hat.  Which if you’ve ever noticed my profile pic, I wear hats.  But along with those great items, he sent a huge stack of White Sox cards.

These are just the highlights.  A couple of Baines, one being a mini and the other I’m thinking might be my first 87 fleer (that’s kind of pathetic isn’t it).  A Fisk, a Bo Jackson, and there were a few Robin Ventura’s.  I really enjoyed seeing the father-son card, which if memory serves, is from the 1985 Topps set.  I remember those from my childhood.  But if that wasn’t enough, he sent these.

This is a cool set.  It was the whole set, and it was still in plastic.  Of course, I had to open it.  The bad part is, I’m going to have to do the same thing I did with the 2011 Topps Team Set from the Diamond Giveaway, take out the Konerko for it’s collection and hope I can find another one to complete this set again.  I’ve watched listings on ebay for that card but I just can’t drop $3.50 for a single more-or-less base card.
He said he didn’t want anything in return for the flag, but I’m definitely going to have to find him a little something for this awesome package.  Your truly a great man, you know, for a Cubs fan.  Be sure to check out his MLB recognized blog at “Blue Batting Helmet”.

Box Break from the Dimwit

Don’t the name fool you, Sam knows what he’s doing over at the “the Daily Dimwit”,  He held a box break of some nice sets.  You got 2 teams, you picked one and one was randomed.  My randomed team was the A’s.

A Frank Thomas card, too bad it’s with the A’s.  The Manny Ramirez/Matt Holiday card on the bottom right is numbered.  I assume the cards that weren’t with a specific team got randomed, that’s where the Michael Beasley comes in.  As well as these 2 cards.

I would have posted that MLK card on Monday had I realized I had it.  All the above are available if you are interested.

I haven’t checked to see which of these cards I have yet but I only recognized a few.  The Thome SP Authentic is numbered so it’ll go to the Sox collection whether I already have it or not.

I like thse cards and it was one of the reasons I joined this break.  I really like the Konerko card at the bottom.  I love the design, and it’s numbered.

So a great box break, thanks Sam, for hosting and running it.  I enjoyed it and I look forward to others.  Be sure to check him out at “the Daily Dimwit”.

1981 Topps–Jack Morris #572, John Pacella #414

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

• Card Facts – Jack Morris – Detroit Tigers – Card #572
• Purchase Price – free (Trade with “JABO’s”)

A future Hall of Famer, I hope.  I had a player collection of Jack Morris when I was growing up.  Of course, I had a player collection of just about anybody that was good.  But Jack was more than good, he was great.  I don’t really get into all the hype of whether someone belongs in the HOF or not.  But if I had a HOF, Jack would be in it.

• Card Facts – John Pacella – New York Mets – Card #414
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “Manupatches & Mustaches”)

I remember this card and I remember why.  I remember thinking he threw the ball so hard his hat fell off.  He must be great.  Hey, I was only 8 when the set came out.  At that time, I was gravitating towards the Mets as a favorite team.  I know as a child, they were.  But I don’t remember if I was this early or not.

• Cards posted in this set – 38
• Total price paid – $1.79
• Average price per card – $0.05
• Cards left to post – 688
• Percentage posted – 38/726 (5% posted)
• Percentage completed – 426/726 (59% completed)

Even 2 free cards didn’t drive the price per card below $.05,,yet.  I’m sure I will end up under that even though I’ve got quite a few cards that I paid more than a $.05 for, I have about 3 times that amount that I got free from fellow bloggers.

1973 Topps–Gary Ross #112, Ralph Garr #15

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Gary Ross – San Diego Padres – Card #112
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot 40/$4.25)

If this card doesn’t say 70’s, then I don’t know what does.  The glasses, the uniform colors, the sideburns.  Yikes.  At least this one looks like it was taken after spring training.

• Card Facts – Ralph Garr – Atlanta Braves – Card #15
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot 40/$4.25)

Another posed shot but you get to to see tarp in the background.  Anybody collect cards with the tarp’s showing?  You also get to see a little bit of warm-ups before a game in the background.  I find myself wondering what the logo is on his right arm.  Looks like a plant or a flower.

• Cards posted in this set – 33
• Total price paid – $4.48
• Average price per card – $0.14
• Cards left to post – 651 (including NNO Checklists)
• Percentage posted – 33/684 (5% posted)
• Percentage completed – 76/684 (11% completed)

Percentage posted went up to 5%.  But as of right now I can only get to 11% since that would be all the cards that I have.

1981 Topps–Bob Boone #290, Doyle Alexander #708

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

• Card Facts – Bob Boone – Philadelphia Philies – Card #290
• Purchase Price – $.05 (Ebay lot 100/$4.99)

One of the many Boone’s that have played in the majors.  Great action shot, although Bob almost looks like he’s smiling because he’s going to get hit.  A card that “Play at the Plate” will appreciate for sure.

• Card Facts – Doyle Alexander – Atlanta Braves – Card #708
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “Manupatches & Mustaches”)

More powder blues.  Love the stirup socks though.  That’s a true baseball uniform there.  Another action shot.  Looks like he just threw a pitch.  I’d say either a ball or strike, it wasn’t hit, otherwise he would probably looking elsewhere.

• Cards posted in this set – 36
• Total price paid – $1.79
• Average price per card – $0.05
• Cards left to post – 690
• Percentage posted – 36/726 (5% posted)
• Percentage completed – 426/726 (59% completed)

Average price per card and percentage posted are in the exact same spot (4.9) but price per card is going down and percentage posted is going up.  I got all my 1981’s in an album today.  It looks pretty good because I’m past halfway with this set.  Debating on posting each page as I complete it.  I only had 1 (9 cards) page filled on 1 side, but none completely completed yet (18 cards).  I guess I have until I fill a page before I have to decide on whether to post it or not.

1973 Topps–Wayne Twitchell #227, Jim Hardin #124

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Wayne Twitchell – Philadelphia Phillies – Card #227
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot 40/$4.25)

Phillies logo looks off centered.  I’m starting to think I’m paranoid of all the photoshopping in this set.

• Card Facts – Jim Hardin – Atlanta Braves – Card #124
• Purchase Price – free (Trade with “Crinkly Wrappers”)

Not a big fan of the lower case a as a logo.  Just seems like since your supposed to capitalize cities and proper names, you would use the capital A logo they use now.  Seems more proper.

• Cards posted in this set – 31
• Total price paid – $4.26
• Average price per card – $0.14
• Cards left to post – 653 (including NNO Checklists)
• Percentage posted – 31/684 (4% posted)
• Percentage completed – 76/684 (11% completed)

Put all my 1973’s in an album today.  It’s a rather bare album at this point but it’s taken care of at least.

Today’s 9–Gordon Beckham page 3

I keep my White Sox collection by players last name. When that player reaches 9 cards (a page), they get a post in the Today’s 9 series. I just recently moved all my cards into alphabetical order so most of these posts are just catching up and making sure everybody get’s their due.

GORDON BECKHAM

Cards (L-R) – (top row) 2011 Topps, 2011 Topps Diamond Anniversary, 2011 Topps Chrome

(middle row) 2011 Topps Opening Day, 2011 Topps Factory Set Limited Edition, 2011 Topps Attax

(bottom row) 2011 Topps Allen & Ginter’s, 2011 Topps Allen & Ginter’s code, 2011 Topps Allen & Ginter’s Hometown Heroes

Played with the Sox from 2009-current

Was 5th in Rookie of the Year voting in 2009.

Card back info –

“Apparently teammates feel Beckham resembles Justin Bieber.  When the teen heartthrob came to US Cellular Field last May to throw out the first pitch, someone tacked a nameplate above the second baseman’s locker that read “Gordon Bieber.”  Beckham laughed it off and, for a time, the White Sox even adopted the superstition of playing Bieber’s music pregame.” – 2011 Topps

“Born and bred in Atlanta, Beckham followed his father as a star athlete at the Westminster Schools, A richly endowed private institution in the upscale Buckhead community.  The school fields 81 athletic teams that have won 221 state championships since 1951.” – 2011 Topps Allen & Ginter’s Hometown Heroes

Cards in Sox uniform that I own currently – 32

Not much info on the backs of those 9 cards since 5 of them are the same, and Attax and Allen & Ginter’s don’t have much on the back.  I really like Beckham and hope he can get his hitting to a more consistent level.  I really liked the fact he didn’t complain about switching through 3 positions to make room for other players.  That says a team player and I would take a team player over a gifted athlete any day.

1981 Topps–Paul Splittorff #218, Rudy Law #127

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

• Card Facts – Paul Splittorff – Kansas City Royals – Card #218
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “JABO’s”)

Recognize the name, and that’s about it.  Nice action shot in the typical 70’s powder blue’s uniforms.  If you had told me his name, I would have known he was with the Royals.

• Card Facts – Rudy Law – Los Angeles Dodgers – Card #127
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “JABO’s”)

Rudy Law I know for my White Sox collection.  I want to say early to mid 70’s cards with them.  I remember a ‘73 and a ‘75 card with the Sox.  I’m probably wrong, but my memory tends to be more lately.

• Cards posted in this set – 34
• Total price paid – $1.74
• Average price per card – $0.05
• Cards left to post – 692
• Percentage posted – 34/726 (5% posted)
• Percentage completed – 426/726 (59% completed)

Percentage posted is up to 4.6% which is good enough for a 5 spot.  Both cards were courtesy of Kyle.

1973 Topps–Ken Singleton #232, Jimmy Stewart #351

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Ken Singleton – Montreal Expos – Card #232
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot 40/$4.25)

Oh yeah!  Gotta love the powder blues.  I’m not sarcastic, I do like them.  But I’m guessing that Ken didn’t like the camera man.  Looks to me that he’s trying to shove him aside.  His face says, “your in my personal space, get back past the bat.”  I remember Ken from his Orioles days later in his career.  I think he played for quite awhile.

• Card Facts – Jimmy Stewart – Houston Astros – Card #351
• Purchase Price – free (Trade with “Crinkly Wrappers”)

This isn’t American Pie.  Jimmy Stewart?  That's a familiar Hollywood name.  I don’t know the baseball player.  I remember those hats, I don’t remember their jerseys like that though.  His hat doesn’t look right either, the logo seems to high.  Definitely a spring training photo.  Has the chain link fence, but no rock formations.

• Cards posted in this set – 29
• Total price paid – $4.15
• Average price per card – $0.14
• Cards left to post – 655 (including NNO Checklists)
• Percentage posted – 29/684 (4% posted)
• Percentage completed – 76/684 (11% completed)

Average price per card dropped a penny with the free card from Ted.  I guess technically they aren’t free since I trade for most.  But I have no idea how to figure that out so they’ll stay free for now.  Besides, it makes my money spent less and that makes the wife happy.  As we all know, when she’s not happy, nobody’s happy.

Trade with Crinkly Wrappers

Ted and I hooked up for a trade.  We’ve talked a bit because he’s collecting the 1973 set as well so he had some dupes to send my way.  I think I’ve purchased some of his cards as well before but this was our first trade.  I didn’t have many ‘73 dupes, only 1 I think, but I sent him some Blue Jays and he sent a great package to me as well.

I don’t think I’ve seen these black 2010 Topps.  I assume they are parallel.  But I love the Sox players with a black background.  Except for the rookie cup on Beckham, what the hell is going on there?

Even if they aren’t vintage, vintage looking is always great in my book.

And these are some of the cool cards he.  Love the colors and design of the top 3 cards.  The Wilbur Wood was supposed to go with all the other 1973 cards but I didn’t have one in my Sox collection yet so it goes there.  But he did send me a whole bunch of 1973’s as well.  You’ll see those in the ‘73 posts.

And what I really loved about Ted’s trade package, was he hit multiple collections.  You saw the Sox, here he hit the Billy Williams, Paul Konerko, Peyton Manning and Mike Hart collections.  What you don’t see is he even hit my Michigan collection with a few cards.  And if I’m not mistaken, he’s the first trader to even hit my Billy Williams collection, which is really good considering I don’t have much for it.  And the first card is even numbered.  The Peyton Manning collection I don’t really buy for so the only way it grows is by trades so it was nice to see those as well.

Thanks Ted, for the great trade.  Be sure to check out his blog over at “Crinkly Wrappers”.  He had a great discussion about 2012 Topps going on earlier, be sure to check it out.

1981 Topps–Joe Niekro #722, Record Breaker #204

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

• Card Facts – Joe Niekro – Houston Astros – Card #722
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “JABO’s”)

Joe, brother of Phil, Niekro.  I don’t remember Joe as much as Phil.  I wonder if he threw the knuckleball as well.  I want to say he was around for awhile so I assume he was a pretty decent pitcher.  I remember these jerseys but I don’t know if I ever noticed the Astros isn’t centered but motre towards the left shoulder.  Is this not the jersey or just a warm up or a t-shirt or something.  Maybe Sam can help a brother out.

• Card Facts – Ron LeFlore & Rodney Scott – Montreal Expos – Card #204
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “Manupatches & Mustaches”)

I do like when they put Record Breakers as part of the sets.  I prefer them part of it, rather than inserts.  Don’t know much about them but I can imagine a team with 2 guys stealing that many bases.  That’s a lot more pressure on the opponent’s pitcher.  I do miss the Expos colors.  I don’t know why, but I do.

• Cards posted in this set – 32
• Total price paid – $1.74
• Average price per card – $0.05
• Cards left to post – 694
• Percentage posted – 32/726 (4% posted)
• Percentage completed – 426/726 (59% completed)

This is the 2nd Astro card in a post in a row. The way I pick what card to post is I have them all scanned and in alphabetical order. I ask my wife to pick a number from 1-100 and then start where I left off the day before and count to that number and that’s the card I use. So it’s more or less random.

1973 Topps–Bill Lee #224, Phil Hennigan #107

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Bill Lee – Boston Red Sox – Card #224
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot406/$4.25)

In case you haven’t noticed, whatever I put in these area’s, I do no research.  Just my thoughts and feelings from the card or player.  That being said, when I see the name “Bill Lee”  I think “Spaceman”.  I’m going to assume that was a nickname of some kind and I’ve heard it before, but for the life of me, I don’t know why that sticks in my head.  I may even be wrong and it’s not a nickname, but that’s what comes to my head.  If it is his nickname, maybe it came from this card, he seems kind of spaced out looking toward nowhere. 

• Card Facts – Phil Hennigan – New York Mets – Card #107
• Purchase Price – $.17 (Ebay lot 6/$1.04)

This is another card from that lot of not so great condition cards.  As you can tell, this one is actually in good shape, but it’s miscut.  Another posed shot, and I’m no expert but I’m going to say his hat is airbrushed.  It just stands out too much.  I’m probably wrong but that’s the way it looks to me.

• Cards posted in this set – 27
• Total price paid – $4.04
• Average price per card – $0.15
• Cards left to post – 657 (including NNO Checklists)
• Percentage posted – 27/684 (4% posted)
• Percentage completed – 76/684 (11% completed)

The more cards I post, the more I really like this set.  Good thing I was born in a year that had cool cards.  I’ve read where people wait until they get to a certain percentage of cards before they put them in binders.  I plan on getting the ‘81s into a binder this weekend, but I’m not sure if I should bother with the ‘73s since I only have 76 cards.  How do all of you set collector’s do it, percentage, do it regardless, don’t use binders?  Let me know?

1981 Topps–Denny Walling #439, George Vukovich #598

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

• Card Facts – Denny Walling – Houston Astros – Card #439
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “JABO’s”)

I remember the name with the team and the card itself.  Don’t remember him from any other sets but on the other hand, I want to say I know he played longer.  My memory is really good with some things, and all screwy about others.

• Card Facts – George Vukovich – Philadelphia Phillies – Card #598
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “Manupatches & Mustaches”)

I definitely remember this card.  I remember thinking a big Russian is playing in the states.  Back then, Russians were the enemies.  I don’t even know if Vukovich is a Russian name, but when I was 8, that’s what I thought.  Not a flattering photo at all.  It’s like the camera guy said, look at the camera and smile, then someone walked behind the camera guy with a hot dog and George followed the hot dog.  I can almost see drool on the corner of his mouth.

• Cards posted in this set – 30
• Total price paid – $1.74
• Average price per card – $0.06
• Cards left to post – 696
• Percentage posted – 30/726 (4% posted)
• Percentage completed – 426/726 (59% completed)

Two more free cards.  One from Kyle and I think this is the first trade card I have posted from Eric.  Both these guys helped with this set big time and it was greatly appreciated.

1973 Topps–Manny Sanguillen #250, Don Baylor #35

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Manny Sanguillen – Pittsburgh Pirates – Card #250
• Purchase Price – $.17 (Ebay lot 6/$1.04)

This ebay lot was actually 7 cards and none were in great condition.  But it was cheap and they weren’t horrible.  A few creases here and there.  One was tore up pretty bad so I didn’t put it in the collection.  Cheesy little league photo here.  That’s what I always think when I see the fake batting stance. 

• Card Facts – Don Baylor – Baltimore Orioles – Card #35
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot 40/$4.25)

Another guy I remember from him coaching in his later years.  I’m not sure I knew he played for the Orioles, I mostly picture him with the Angels.  At least this one is an action shot, and game action at that.  I’d rather see the stands in the backgrounds then rock and chain link fence.  If It was taken in spring training, it at least can fake it to most as being during the season.

• Cards posted in this set – 25
• Total price paid – $3.76
• Average price per card – $0.15
• Cards left to post – 659 (including NNO Checklists)
• Percentage posted – 25/684 (4% posted)
• Percentage completed – 76/684 (11% completed)

Up to 4% posted, technically it’s 3.6% but I round up.  Long way to go though.  I’m 1/3 of the way through the cards I currently have though.  I need to get to buying some more.  Maybe some with tax money.

Today’s 9–Gordon Beckham page 2

I keep my White Sox collection by players last name. When that player reaches 9 cards (a page), they get a post in the Today’s 9 series. I just recently moved all my cards into alphabetical order so most of these posts are just catching up and making sure everybody get’s their due.

GORDON BECKHAM

Cards (L-R) – (top row) 2010 Bowman Sterling, 2010 Topps When They Were Young, 2010 Topps 206

(middle row) 2010 Topps Allen & Ginters, 2010 Topps Allen & Ginters This Day in History, 2010 Topps Allen & Ginters game-used bat

(bottom row) 2010 Topps Finest, 2011 Bowman, 2011 Bowman Finest Futures

Played with the Sox from 2009-current

Was 5th in Rookie of the Year voting in 2009.

Card back info –

“Beckham made his MLB debut on 6/4/09, starting at third base against the Athletics.  On that same date in 1968, Don Drysdale set a pair of record by firing his sixth straight shutout and extending his scoreless innings binge to 54 (later ending at 58).” – 2010 Bowman Sterling

“The alma mater of both of Beckham’s parents is the University of South Carolina, where his dad quarterbacked the football team and his mother was cheerleader.  Gordon grew up passionate about baseball.  He still recalls his gloom when his father, the youth team coach, had to cancel games because of rain” – 2010 Topps When They Were Young

“Though a rookie, Beckham was clutch enough in 2009 to sway .348 with runners in scoring positions and two outs.” – 2010 Topps 206

“Resume – Notched first career four-hit game on 7/18/10.  Finished fifth in 2009 AL Rookie of the Year voting.  Smashed 14 homers and 28 doubles.  2008 SEC Player of the Year honoree.  Skills – Generates plus power with great bat speed and hip rotation.  Has strong arm and smooth actions in field.  Hard worker.  Evolution – After setting a U. of Georgia record with 28 homers in ‘08, Beckham proved he could wield a wooden bat by whacking .322 in 59 Minor League games.” – 2011 Bowman

“A college star who tied for the NCAA lead with 28 homers in 2008, Beckham outpaced many forecasts by reaching the Majors early in the ‘09 season.  There was nothing left to prove on the farms, where he whacked .322 in 59 games split among three levels.  The White Sox starting second baseman in ‘10, Gordon is a thread anywhere from the Nos. 2-9 spots in the order.” – 2011 Bowman Finest Futures

Cards in Sox uniform that I own currently – 32

Debated on even adding the card back info from 2010 Bowman Sterling since it doesn’t say much about Beckham other than his debut date.  I liked the When We Young Back though, the info about his parents is cool.  A sports fairy tale if you will. 

Trade with Stealing Home

I had a couple of cards that Oscar wanted so we struck up a trade.  I sent him a couple of relics and since we had traded recently, he didn’t have many Sox for me.  So I got some trade material for a couple of other bloggers that I’m working on getting cards for.  I did see one card on his blog “All Trade Bait” and requested that.

These are some of the few Sox he had.  Love me some Lineage and a Jerry Owens rookie.  I remember when he was supposed to be our next big thing.  I’ve heard that about a number of Sox rookies and I’m still waiting for it.

I had requested the Beckham sparkly, but I love the Konerko rookie and Aparicio Kimball. 

Some great Sox cards and a big thanks for the other trade stuff.  Check out “All Trade Bait” and see what Oscar has for you.

1973 Topps–Jim Lonborg #3, Willie Davis #35

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Jim Lonborg – Philadelphia Phillies – Card #3
• Purchase Price – unknown

Another background with rock.  I’m guessing that a lot of these were taken in spring training.  Lots of chain link fence and rock formations.  The price is unknown because I can’t find it in my record keeping.  I’ll doc myself $.50 in the total amount paid for this mistake.

• Card Facts – Willie Davis – Los Angeles Dodgers – Card #35
• Purchase Price – free (via Trade with “Crinkly Wrappers”)

Well I obviously know this guy.  I should know all them with all those Dodger bloggers out there.  I would guess this is a brush back pitch at his head since the catcher is already standing.  Probably had to go up to get it.  Willie doesn’t have his helmet on so either he flinched it off or he got beamed.  I do love the action shots in this set.  Stuff you don’t hardly ever see.  Although, if I was Willie Davis, I’m not sure this is the photo I would want used.

• Cards posted in this set – 23
• Total price paid – $3.48
• Average price per card – $0.15
• Cards left to post – 661 (including NNO Checklists)
• Percentage posted – 23/684 (3% posted)
• Percentage completed – 76/684 (11% completed)

That $.50 penalty cost my average price per card to go up a penny.  Good thing I got some cards via trade to equal those out.

1981 Topps–Astros team #678, Bill Caudill #574

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

• Card Facts – Houston Astros team – Card #678
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “JABO’s”)

Gotta love the old Astros colors.  Are there any Astros fans out there like really liked these uniforms?  I ask because one of my favorite Sox logos isn’t a very popular one.  I see Bill Virdon listed as manager, I think I remember scanning his ‘73 card, also as a manager, but of the Pirates.  I like these team cards, kind of like a portrait.  I wish they did them more often in the modern sets.  Even as an insert would be cool by me.

• Card Facts – Bill Caudill – Chicago Cubs – Card #574
• Purchase Price – free (trade with “JABO’s”)

I kind of remember this card.  I don’t know where this was taken but it doesn’t look like a major league stadium.  I could be wrong, I’m just guessing.  I’d also guess that it’s a bullpen of some kind since there are people directly behind him, as well as further behind him so I assume the field continues out there.  I definitely remember the Cub logo on Bill’s sleave though.

• Cards posted in this set – 26
• Total price paid – $1.74
• Average price per card – $0.07
• Cards left to post – 700
• Percentage posted – 26/726 (4% posted)
• Percentage completed – 426/726 (59% completed)

Hope you all are ok with the way these posts look now. A lot easier on my time schedule this way.  This is the first time I’ve added the set completion number on these posts.  Wow!  Already at 59%.  Huge thanks to my fellow bloggers for that number.  Price paid for this set should stay really low with the 300 plus cards I’ve gotten from them.

1973 Topps–Brock Davis #366, Dave Hamilton #214

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Brock Davis – Milwaukee Brewers – Card #366
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot, 40/$4.25)

Don’t know this card as I probably won’t know too many since this is the year I was born.  I’ve never really rooted for or against the Brewers.  I would like to see their new stadium some time, I hear it’s pretty cool.

 

• Card Facts – Dave Hamilton – Oakland Athletics – Card #214
• Purchase Price – free (via Trade with “Crinkly Wrappers”)

My first trade card posted in either set.  I’m able to mix them up more now that I’ve changed the way I’m posting the cards.  I never know if I should type out A’s or Athletics when I type it.  At least this card is an action shot unlike the one above it.  I must say, looking at the photography from this set reminds me of looking at old pictures of my mom’s.

• Cards posted in this set – 21
• Total price paid – $2.98
• Average price per card – $0.14
• Cards left to post – 663 (including NNO Checklists)
• Percentage posted – 21/684  (3% posted)
• Percentage completed – 76/684 (11% completed)

Hope you all are ok with the way these posts look now.  A lot easier on my time schedule this way.

Trade with Dennis

Dennis doesn’t believe in fair trading.  He likes to send huge box loads of cards, knowing I only have a few cards set aside for him.  Actually, Dennis knows I’m good for it because we’ve traded before and we email a bit with our interest in the Wolverines.  He had said he was going to send me a package so I expected the Wolverine auto’s he sent because we had discussed those before.  But he sent me a box full of Sox cards as well.  You’ll see those here, you’ll have to check out the Wolverine cards over at Dennis sight “Too Many Manninghams” which he lets me guest post there.

Like I said, he sent me a crap load of Sox cards.  I won’t go into all of those but I will show the Konerko cards.  There were about double these just in Konerko cards but I already had the others in my player collection.  But they will probably all be needed in the White Sox Collection.

All these Konerko cards will go to the Konerko collection.  And I will be going through the rest of the box to find a huge amount of Sox cards to go to the team collection.

Thanks Dennis, above and beyond as always.  I’ll be looking out for some great cards for you.  Be sure to check out his blog “Too Many Grandersons” or Verlanders or whatever he’s calling it now.  Also check out his other blog “Too Many Manninghams” to see more of the package he sent me.  I’ll be posting it there right after this one gets posted.

There be some changes round here

I woke up this morning and read texts I received through the night and read this from ESPN “Reports – Colts have interviewed former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel for their coaching vacancy”  Hell, F***ing NO!  I am a Colts fan, not a Peyton Manning fan who just roots for the Colts because of him.  I rooted for the Colts and watched the majority of their games this year without Manning.  But when I read that text, I said to myself, if they hire him, I’m not rooting for the Colts anymore.  Now I’ve thought about it all day, and my mind hasn’t changed.  I don’t love the NFL like I do NCAA or MLB so I may not even have a favorite team.  I’ll just root for some players I like and that will be the end of it.  I truly hope that they don’t hire him for that position.  I was annoyed enough when they hired his ass for whatever he does for the team now.  If he coach’s, I’m gone.

I just spent 6 hours today just scanning.  Trades, Box Breaks and a crap load of 1973 and 1981 Topps.  The set cards are what took me forever because I had to scan those individually.  But all my scanning is done.  Whew!

I’ve said before that I need to be more organized and because I am organized now, I will be able to get the posts ready.  But I tend to leave all my cards left to post all stacked up until I get the post out in case I need to see it when typing it out.  Which leaves a few stacks of 1981’s and a small stack of 1973’s.  So I think I’m going to change the way I show the 81’s and 73’s.  I’m going to just show the card (that’s all we need to see anyways) and then my personal comments and my set info.  That way I don’t need to keep the cards stacked around and can store them.  I don’t have a desk or man cave or anything like that.  So when I leave cards stacked around, they are usually on a shelf next to the TV in the living room.  I usually type out my blog posts from my couch with my laptop.  So in order to get my card stacks out of the living room, I’m going to change those posts.  I am also going to possibly post a few cards per post.  If I don’t, it’ll take over 2 years of posts for each set.  Once I get through what I have those posts will slow down anyways.  Hope that’s cool with you guys who read it.  But this isn’t a set blog so I find this best for me.

Now I plan on spending the rest of my evening getting posts ready for the next week or so plus a whole bunch of 81 posts  Ho hum, the day in the life of a blogger.

I do have a question for all of you though.  I generally respond to comments via email and if you don’t have an email attached to your comments, I respond on the post.  What does everyone prefer?  Or do you not have a preference.  Let me know, you all know how.

1981 Topps–Jay Johnstone #372

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

• Card Facts – Jay Johnstone – Los Angeles Dodgers – Card #372
• Purchase Price – $0.05 (ebay lot – 100/$4.99)
• On the back (toon, bottom left) – none
• On the back (toon, bottom right) – none
• Signed by the Los Angeles Angels as an amateur free agent in 1963.
• Debut – July 30, 1966
• 1966-1970 (Angels), 1971-1972 (White Sox), 1973 (A’s), 1974-1978 (Phillies), 1978-1979 (Yankees), 1979 (Padres), 1980-1982, 1985 (Dodgers), 1982-1984 (Cubs)
• Born in Manchester, CT

That’s a bunch of teams.  I remember him from the Dodgers and Cubs.  But then again, those are the teams he played for when I was getting into baseball as a youngster.  I’m not sure I even remember him playing for the Sox, card wise that is, I wasn’t alive yet when he actually did.

• Cards posted in this set – 24
• Total price paid – $1.74
• Average price per card – $0.07
• Cards left to post – 703

1973 Topps–Carlos May #105

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Carlos May – Chicago White Sox – Card #105
• Purchase Price – $.33 (Ebay lot, 7/$2.34)
• On the back (toon) – Carlos led Carolina league in batting, 1968.
  • “Carlos had a hot bat for Chisox last September.  In one 12-game batting streak he was averaging .419 with 18 hits in 43 at-bats.  Carlos hits to all fields, he’ll go to leftfield with the outside pitch and he’ll pull the ball when pitched inside.”
• Drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the 1st round (18th pick) of the 1966 amateur draft.
• Debut – September 6, 1968
• 1968-1976 (White Sox), 1976-1977 (Yankees), 1978 (Angels)
• Born in Birmingham, AL

I mainly know Carlos from collecting Sox cards.  I want to say I have 3 or 4 other of his base cards.  I know I have his 1975 along with another copy of this one. 

• Cards posted in this set – 19
• Total price paid – $2.87
• Average price per card – $0.15
• Cards left to post – 665 (including NNO Checklists)

Today’s 9–Harold Baines page 2

I keep my White Sox collection by players last name. When that player reaches 9 cards (a page), they get a post in the Today’s 9 series. I just recently moved all my cards into alphabetical order so most of these posts are just catching up and making sure everybody get’s their due.

HAROLD BAINES

Cards (L-R) – (top row) 1988 Donruss All-Star, 1988 Score, 1988 Topps

(middle row) 1988 Topps mini, 1989 Donruss, 1989 Donruss (green back)

(bottom row) 1989 Topps, 1989 Topps mini,  1996 Leaf Signature Series

Played with the Sox from 1980-1989, 1996-1997, 2000-2001

Was All-Star in 1985-1987, 1989, 1991, 1999

Won a Silver Slugger award in 1989

Card back info –

“Only member of the White Sox to be selected to the ‘87 All-Star team.  Was his 3rd All-Star selection, the other coming in ‘85 and ‘86.  Bothered by after-effects of knee surgery early in ‘87 and was limited to DH duty.  Hit .304 in ‘84 with 29 HR and 94 RBI and .309 in ‘85 with 22 HR and 113 RBI.  Despite being hampered by a bad knee in ‘86, hit .296 with 21 HR and 88 RBI.  2nd on White Sox’ all-time homer list with 140 going in ‘87” – 1988 Donruss All-Star

“Harold, who has never received the acclaim he should as one of baseball’s best players, was disabled for a month by knee surgery and hampered most of the 1987 season by its after affects.  Because of his loss of mobility, Harold had to leave right field, where he was tops, and became the White Sox designated hitter.  Nonetheless, he was chosen for the All-Star game for the third time in a row and set a White Sox record for career home runs.  In July, Harold’s .343 BA ranked ninth in the AL.  Harold, who was the first player picked in the 1977 free-agent draft, set a league mark with 22 game-winning RBI’s in ‘83.  “Even when Harold’s not swinging real good, he’s swinging good,” said manager Jim Fregosi.  “He has an amazing knack of getting hits when he has to.” = 1988 Score

“Harold signed as a 1st round draft selection with the White Sox, June 7, 1977 by scout Bennie Huffman.” – 1988 Topps

“Was scouted as a little leaguer by former White Sox owner Bill Veeck.” – 1988 Topps mini

“White Sox’ all-time HR leader.  Underwent knee surgery prior to ‘87 season and has been reduced to DH duties since.  Led White in RBI last year.  White Sox’ HR, RBI and hits leader in ‘86.  4th in AL in RBI and 6th in batting in ‘85.  All-Star ‘85-‘87.  Led AL in slugging (.541) in ‘84 and topped Chisox in battling and RBI.” – 1989 Donruss

“He belted 1st major league Home Run: 4-19-80.  His first major league Grand Slam: 7-7-82.” – 1989 Topps

“Harold hit a Home Run in the 25th inning.  May 9, 1984” – 1989 Topps mini

“A solid .300 hitter against both righties and lefties, Harold rejoined his original team when he signed with the Chisox as a free agent.  He did so well during his first tour that the team retired his No. 3.  It was reactivated for his return.  At age 37, Harold remains a serious long-ball threat.” – 1996 Leaf Signature Series

Cards in Sox uniform that I own currently – 23

Was really excited when I got the Harold Baines auto from Dennis at “Too Many Grandersons.”  He was one of my favorites growing up.

1981 Topps–Rick Cerone #335

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

• Card Facts – Rick Cerone – New York Yankees – Card #335
• Purchase Price – $0.05 (ebay lot – 100/$4.99)
• On the back (toon, bottom left) – Holds nearly every offensive record at Seton Hall University.
• On the back (toon, bottom right) – Threw 13 Touchdown passes as a high school senior.
• Drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 1st round (7th pick) of the 1975 amateur draft.
• Debut – August 17, 1975
• 1975-1976 (Indians), 1977-1979 (Blue Jays), 1980-1984, 1987, 1990 (Yankees), 1985 (Braves), 1986 (Brewers), 1988-1989 (Red Sox), 1991 (Mets), 1992 (Expos)
• Born in Newark, NJ

I only remember him from the Yankees.  Not sure why a team would get rid of you 3 different times.  I would think there was a reason they did the 1st time, let alone the 2nd.  I like the helmet on this card.  I remember collecting a bunch of those when I was young.

• Cards posted in this set – 23
• Total price paid – $1.69
• Average price per card – $0.07
• Cards left to post – 704

1973 Topps–Bill Plummer #177

I’m collecting the 1973 set, slowly but surely. This post is the latest in my quest for the completion.

• Card Facts – Bill Plummer – Cincinnati Reds – Card #177
• Purchase Price – $.11 (Ebay lot, 40/$4.25)
• On the back (toon) – Bill enjoys hunting trips in the off-season.
  • “Bill comes from a baseball family.  His father, Bill Plummer, was a minor league pitcher, 1921-1927, and his uncle “Red” Baldwin, caught in the minors, 1915-1931.”
• Signed by the St. Louis Cardinals as an amateur free agent in 1965.
• Debut – April 19, 1968
• 1968 (Cubs), 1970-1976 (Reds), 1978 (Mariners)
• Born in Oakland, CA

I remember having a Reds hat growing up.  I don’t remember exactly why, but I do know I loved that hat.  I do like the catcher logo they use for these cards.  The squatting position.  It works for a catcher, not for me though, I hurt thinking about squatting to that position for a few seconds. 

• Cards posted in this set – 18
• Total price paid – $2.54
• Average price per card – $0.14
• Cards left to post – 666 (including NNO Checklists)