Tony - THE TONY - recently offered some of these little charmers to his readers. The kid in me couldn't resist the opportunity to add a couple of these to my player collections.
Cal Ripken Jr - class act, standout guy. Everything that could be written or said about this man has been, yet I keep typing... He is one of the first players I paid attention to when I fell in love with the game. The only thing he ever did to disappoint me was retire. I doubt I'll ever have a majority of his cards but this gem is one more off the list!
Ken Caminiti (d. 2004) I've always been a bit drawn to him. Steroids, drugs, and alcohol - Ken was a troubled man. I can't pretend to know the struggles of the addicted. Yes he cheated the game. He also cheated himself out of many good, living years. I do keep a few of his cards around. He had beautiful eyes.
Jeff Bagwell - lifetime Astro. Lifetime numbers:.297 average; 2314 hits; 449 homers. My only trip to the Astrodome in 2001 witnessed his first career grand slam. I'd like to see him in the Hall.
Mike Piazza - His was one of the first player collection I began in 93. One of his more memorable moments at the plate came on Sept 21, 2001, shortly after the 9/11 tragedy. The Mets were battling the Braves for playoff rights, trailing by 5.5 games. Mike hit a mammoth home run in the bottom of the 8th inning. The Mets went ahead 3-2, winning the game. Although the Mets didn't make the playoffs, this brief moment in time gave the hometown crowd a much needed emotional release and cause for celebration.
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The final two cards are super-sweet manufactured patches. Here are two Commemorative Patches from 2010 Topps:
Bob Feller: career pitcher with the Indians. 266-162 W/L 3.25 ERA and over 2500 K's !! Entered the HOF on the first ballot with 93.8% of votes. I love this arrowhead patch! I don't know who's wearing the bigger smile - Feller or the Indian Scout!
Thank you again Tony, for another fun trade!
