tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34619732981688756772024-02-21T21:36:09.141-08:001978 Baseball Card UpdateDesigned for use by our ARAIG online league and for enjoyment purposes only.ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-65958845496538863762014-01-20T20:46:00.001-08:002014-01-20T20:46:43.126-08:00Pittsburgh Pirates (88-73)–2nd Place NL East<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWSDeF4LKA9AKad6YQoxDou0iiIt90oQy_nsXLT-mw3rtQR6HQMriD5aJH7QsqgZhJWlzEUvsAOJ584RQihyphenhyphenadw5Nyc-cqn6ILYEFIVEBhkBny6Tcmkz-_6DrQAcO0ir-37qEHvXfp3E/s1600-h/Alberto_Lois%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Alberto_Lois" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Alberto_Lois" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXffV91YFW1mXjtfqh3LH4qsKcoLf3gCPlCgn7cvKLt0-762I5cioQk81NJjwlauWM7F0v8GqoaULqejTbpk5jH1SUQdlVKcljeStARl78YMj1jPKCEQ1b-GF9rKpaDPQHb6T2RL07ipw/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gM0RaTJ1DIIMBGH7P4DYzf3ICzMDYOE4j59K7nNkW0OzmkTgkDaX52X3h5gZlMq3gzN9NiQ2n3eNkwLwc9Z5GuriX0Q-HbOst7Hebamn-Lb_kc0SpDA3KBEvZKU5EKJNOEMhdgSJp7c/s1600-h/Bert_Blyleven%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Bert_Blyleven" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Bert_Blyleven" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi2IvAt-zEZ5vaIr-24GtOwotwoBt0ww0-6fIQw6FdQUBcZKcdNvAdw8OpcqH3ptz3yYF8hDKnWWHYS8-m02o0vaa_f_ST2qnhAbF1riPjZoylgvWFEq2WAUD-zKKtThSNKdLZawxIARE/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDBdBMqhTt3FkidLACCUBLaYmGueiV3G4AGSLz-t2_owfIsbewgsSMLPKNj-JJ96gH6xYeSDLWNyk2f9qFeV-quuz1mOA4LoM-k9lBx8xm1R_SOXOtnfDByWnxD49eRKM3tmTWyMr40Y/s1600-h/Cito_Gaston_PIT%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cito_Gaston_PIT" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Cito_Gaston_PIT" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSGD-B4wVGgjZY6V3WXOesbmpN8wcsCdy0cArbK7d5-v4xqvrGnvqIjBAc38fO7w27GNt7wBRmpyj6FWLxMar050K-KF31mOLrcb8pnRLRQcmgNpOTjCuUAhEkXgxPqwulpeMVwKzQkVg/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzmRtcZfMKtl4X_F95k67Kkg_y4KMRpFm8T7mVJtmSkEa7UuqzcDc_SzQrsfe2w-RewNnw-itfSNV2gER9GNdcQlIhOh2ANxLLcRgTKhrJHxVdTCdD-lXc5Av0eupvzDz6PnYkajq0fE/s1600-h/Clay_Carroll%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Clay_Carroll" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Clay_Carroll" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCkLhYRYae0rZMqsnWviwMPQmSRHUs2LkFL3_omdBQFBiddxiT8ZfIH7a4uqi47z2nkSOw85h-QSyqmjZLrdrFnNNsP1U0EQgk7yw5dqyslFQ5y4QXuIwzMUI-fSH5np8Lx9c72g1wLk/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMwciVl4h0xCm_2axcnTb6RHpJs0jA2giqreV4Taz_pVVZKOVE7xQlvCPZJ6XEBh6i8yYtwOgcH7igqsfy1UT4FQj7bzIaAQANHMUCcOyN9QK4gz_5UHYaFFUaJ4HzS5GlpJFalj0ufg/s1600-h/Dale_Berra%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Dale_Berra" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Dale_Berra" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtAYfXySkbpDAQ35IUIK2lWWHuAxhkYXmAmJqJawFTxUZtGFMrOKWzdvuvqBbHZMEATcgNGewBZyA_38BvTkT_MpS367oGtiNXhLAOwBrIuHZa85Gs-nFbZHPaF32EDl4CufFWvlF21SQ/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDcsQlqh6ab76ebU-RZ1Bbz5RqmwYEfKnPKC8XgKsR6IcbFx6gGhkvA3ABCMZaryocIZja0JpwITLssJL81OeTVo0GRcn0AqwcXS22DP5X2qoAETkB-juf1l8628oJmymJ6w_gVxFNnAw/s1600-h/Dave_Hamilton_PIT%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Dave_Hamilton_PIT" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Dave_Hamilton_PIT" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOu3A6yh1ovs84wZyYNC-EKhBwwp0u07P41ebj9swn0cH_2Mp7Fw8oHwTbdThV_tYN5eudrRWJR30fel0JVQnfyapwcnyoGQcaXm4rlO3hDfwRdTRbKMW8dg7e3YT1Hebf0_55Y6hJI4s/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOkuCdafq8ekJH7VGKWBNGfr5-_xqtAPRHB_II2ucjppoatr-KP_f8ejDVjCCqbS0PemaxegvSxKbbtHN3kU481F2_yyvnQvc12HvyhIVpifalBaU2F8LygKszbT4ECRFZMUBnQqc_Js/s1600-h/Dave_May_PIT%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Dave_May_PIT" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Dave_May_PIT" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIMDKO3GlwISVRFtaObXeEwcKVw6JS-xnWUtPAoz2pBHEssWzKzG_D_yxaVVmhM6JI3z5qzMGaWSP9pLXydoCc7C01T8Wbfr1_DVVxRlf0N0CllMP4eSo6wPEyRQLYHbrsGuSiCDr3lmQ/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrr6geVEuMBJYl62jTUFu_IrNGvaSawKNCAVEjKVG8z6TYx5Ba5UpNcP8C2R80bkyZmpt7fdZqOzzLOr-0jwebFRQcMGf6mtlfHLOJUti6kCRn_44vT2ZNjmjVxQA7TI8kfFNKXgQrzMc/s1600-h/Doe_Boyland%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Doe_Boyland" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Doe_Boyland" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOebuU8l8BbdB6sGodk8DzyhNWAgyJgFeNf6Q8G9a6klsqHqGEEg-YbVk4d10PaXLu5PLCO5pCmhWVF-niQxdSZ1ODQpoXzbPBMMa28XG7wAeHKbo0htdRs2UOH-n05p9wrj72Fxm88w/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIbEfvnuAN6vZaDBc7Lak_gGSy7R4njBPXssI0F9eMlb2nDMqvZpNoIm0BUS5x_IqwAGECdJZ2IWjoq5PweTO1mgsx5jV30HQWC4EogLAw83TiGgoqVrySrlE-d80BllEgF_v03nGDWqk/s1600-h/Don_Robinson%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Don_Robinson" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Don_Robinson" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaIkw4Jn5vdXzoitkqnGHNdgAKX8GYeGK2wkK6gskNAxAr3bxkxkANouIuBgQSaU05PycAxg47pDY_-MPDPPLgtK1qpEIxEyUD1H9JOJkKo6o_U72yVEn6Jd0S9QEoCsx3-z8mjyGOijI/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTs1QYRU_w2yRiONAf9_5NaGuyF9o-xLVY3yjexKUi02IM41tuDrZDJGO-7Q7wkagTyvFhpdnEQsFn-ehKG-03CZMhjtuVouMQjfImoTKXGmHJIsmMdJjobeXWpLfldzU9-o-e1LdlFw/s1600-h/Ed_Whitson%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Ed_Whitson" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Ed_Whitson" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZANzg51ihc-KleV5XE8hBTsEQ-BA48Kcd3yhjEjS6Djwk52YlYHZmH4_oil4fZLyFHkT8wCXbOj3PYzXVNRutUbudZoWpvahGexPWd4cnTn4sFnAfUfpL6dK6JCpQ9UCWcqwcBOXYPI/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWlaLVJDlGQKR2lPhicE7Ij2lY-ciG6v9TXI6QmRRdbPNNF-N0bHPVKbomGPbeQcOYecHilPe7DTWB0NS6rPqb1A2RBJYxmS0l2Tn6VEllkq9avvbihZ9BaDL5apCLbKyl9zD_E3ipbJg/s1600-h/Jim_Bibby%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Jim_Bibby" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Jim_Bibby" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIg-Qg8JvLZsEv9wnYgYXL-WxUTaxVpQsh9qWY4plpUVoNnzYcYetcu4VwhYDYXoSzwSWKux-DzTtQD1Yh6FiQJ9bPgcmw2o4z5K28crFB7fYGB_UqOblANPDYAbx1RRFaHsCTrajK2U/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDv5jZx7uuFFMsccsgkndTbknX60Q27y8QuHWQ4BmnmBK3NaqG1PMtkluF93qY7wjrXkLaZrow6WzcxFO9hw8PguedhFKfg8jhjk5CctV7Z2T_Juawr0S8n4dkf0h_yLpHdzEMCKUOBec/s1600-h/John_Milner%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="John_Milner" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="John_Milner" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcS2E3MpH9YvTRDRnPgWYB9dHmk-bQN307afacmttW4ORu0wvN-l8YGxzuhyphenhyphenQ8_eHwwUmtTrYHDlpeGLRHzYEoHn07vHjL8O__rWzJ9LYrLoFmlbqVVvzD8oBCZnJiyIK9SPCSHVcrpzI/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOG7Nhk09jasNgiZmz1WdYoJaX1s49gntTi8Gtewy1-HVh92bejA-qbJby4WYV3kG4J6DlAGHCswimdWFPdFXA73pvUdkkPbefbs5US5h21RaBGvG7RmLus3Lbf2XfKlEmhsVGPdLluW4/s1600-h/Manny_Sanguillen%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Manny_Sanguillen" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Manny_Sanguillen" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjfjEM9miszO6oxx-shYfH0ARdqrLLNwpSVm2P-_bvH_I-Eqm9jFaXnYe6fKpJM0e4s9LXLEStJHQbLSvz4nLXCdPpeD690C8qD6FzHuKgTzZ5GFw4Bviq9uEuHNP1HLRDerq9p6iQRc/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5kEZvbk_yGboNKET8f0m5J8Sv0YjQ87-NsnTcDWmg-bIWgalp6Lzmrw6cJeVJ-k8Z684rIthEHVkhRiO4zsIWnGnNWrdAbVa5tZeP74fygkDYzPPGvtGIEWXrTnqG5F3ykPuooFo4aw/s1600-h/Matt_Alexander%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Matt_Alexander" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Matt_Alexander" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_c2OyX7ZuZjvgX54uAt9exf2JCgAxmvZBt3kRE8FbM_AI0jbevLtZTld2MR_YX7v3NiP5CPoo1gJdMCeFV5xM0af7lOJ4_Xx_pRHTlLrQkgjzyvSwBLxCsoS4XIxsEvjio7kuzyVldA/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCmsJIWVtFHdqmU-6OGEj31y_xOg0kiM1xluQDPGTSWbtdA-dcq_AsQBpa-YPaBj-9O8gUKbgEIAEVd7BhilYbjbrN8chbNTESjXC8PJuT6TPK_nu8e3WnyI3lKlAciupgFLjd5IbIKw/s1600-h/Steve_Brye%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Steve_Brye" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Steve_Brye" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpjLM8H3-EIIWqeLrA2Kpf1TotVykFEEDw5cXvnIyMo0UM6_RFpdhOgFv4HzNGT6iB4IyXVZPeoCB_QO3hBALHeGo3vzyff-r3hjW-p2fZYWJokgmw0LiMk1SmawV25MLh34POAxgwiNA/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZrIHQFc_zLgXQykNT2VPM_OSL9GRqI4xBeh4eDS_rZZ86zJoH2VRBMQ_nTXc5iSe5LxIn1SkanX9vLT3pxWxIl9Mx6MGTH9kaxMiC-rRAVUS-jOFBZ-ZkmefD-I0WNvOvfULzlZVRL8/s1600-h/Steve_Nicosia%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Steve_Nicosia" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Steve_Nicosia" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBNpuZ4JVbmvpHJs7jLDkD9WVILllDioC8ItaYWY7UfizIosizQPTyqzzLPgsW7i6KL5f4d735jmTnk9eC8zexBbGKK13f-UERr9uw7sZDyYkpa5_byEzeZO4IaKYk-jlR85IPROnnaU/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQe7SK-SJgaAeYEHD6TAoz4bLUZVMETfDCktEyiP-zNwIQjk2GZ9fazChrGusE02qejzn09IG13HU-G2iRPScZblymoVipxxUnOVjbIFnTGR-LSb6-REMIRF8Ps73I1Ng8ofIn_tEyLc/s1600-h/Will_McEnaney%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Will_McEnaney" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Will_McEnaney" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuvVJwqj60vwEma7gNdAbJvPQVI6DShR-g87q-AXUNKxj6VD-LuhgXy0JkIOhcS5p0xRJ7q3AUL0tFdfn1AXrUkuWz_PFlr_Qde2skscWMWcKkGm-XFptazjaJCticPHGYvpwGRLO6ZA/?imgmax=800" width="174" height="244"></a></p> <p><strong><font style="background-color: #ffff00">Editor’s Notes:</font></strong> Manny Sanguillen always seems to be happy, which is probably why the Bucs re-acquired him and why Steeltown fans still embrace him 35 years later. Looks like Dave May and Doe Boyland posed for the same photographer minutes apart from each other. The Blyleven and Frye are colorizations that I worked on. Worst of the bunch is the Cito Gaston airbrush job that was used for his 1979 card. I searched high and low to find a shot of him in a Bucs uni but came up woefully short and decided not to knock myself out on a guy who played just 2 games for the Bucs in ‘78 and retired after the season.</p> ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-92052952850609993592012-12-27T22:11:00.000-08:002012-12-27T22:11:08.303-08:00The ALCS: New York defeats KC (3-1) for the 3rd year in a row<br />
Things looked good for KC, because Yankee ace Ron Guidry had to pitch in that little playoff game up in Fenway, and would not be ready until Game 4 of the ALCS. After splitting the first 2 games in KC with lopsided wins, the series moved to the Bronx. <br />
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George Brett went off an hit 3 homers, all off Catfish Hunter in what looked like a sure fire win by the Royals. In the top of the 8th Darrell Porter singled home Amos Otis to tie the game at 4-4. Porter would score 3 batters later when Goose Gossage got Al Cowens to ground out. Heading into the bottom of the inning Herzog allowed starter Paul Splittorff to begin inning. After Roy White's 1 out single Herzog went to the pen. Instead of bringing in the lefty (Hrabosky), he went with the righty (Doug Bird), who served up a 2 run shot to Yankee captain Thurman Munson, which put New York back on top by 1. Gossage took the mound in the top of the 9th and set the Royals down in order to give New York a 2-1 series lead.<br />
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The following night Ron Guidry outdueled Dennis Leonard to clinch the AL Pennant. Guidry scattered 7 Royal hits over 8 innings, while striking out 7 and allowing just 1 run to cross the plate. KC's 1 run would come in the top of the first. Their failure to score more that inning was their downfall. Leonard, who gave up just 2 runs, was victimized by 2 long balls (Nettles in the 2nd & White in the 6th). With Guidry mowing them down the Yankees looked like a lock until the top of the 9th when Otis led off with a double. Yankee manager Bob Lemon realized that his ace had gone as far as he could go, went to the pen for flamethrower Goose Gossage. Pinch hitter Clint Hurdle went down swinging and Porter made the second out by flying out to center. Herzog dug deep into his bag of tricks and pinch hit one more time. Lefty Pete LaCock was immediately in a 0-2 hole as Gossage was not playing around. on the 3rd pitch he lifted a weak fly to left that fell neatly into defensive replacement Gary Thomasson's glove for the pennant clincher. For the 3rd time in successive years the Royals came up short vs the Bronx Bombers. Power once again outdid speed.<br />
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Topps only issued 1 card for the ALCS. In years past they would issue a card per game played in B&W. I decided as part of this project that I would add these "missing" LCS cards.<br />
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ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-47229050360745505602012-12-27T21:48:00.001-08:002012-12-27T21:48:25.440-08:00The Bronx ZooWelcome to the Bronx Zoo. A team that had more subplots than any other World Champion in major league history. Playing .700 ball from mid July through October is a good way to win a championship. In the Yankees case all it guaranteed them was a 1 game playoff in Fenway Park on October 1st. Massive injuries and the implosion of skipper Billy Martin left the Bombers all but dead in the water as the Red Sox built a huge double digit lead by July. A managerial change brought in the steady Bob Lemon to replace the volatile Martin and all of a sudden the atmosphere changed. Don't discount the fact that the troops got healthy and Ron Guidry was in the midst of a season for the ages, and all off a sudden the Yankees had the formula. Slowly but surely they chipped away at the Red Sox lead. Entering September they were 6 1/2 back, just within earshot of making a run. Heading into a key 4 game set in Boston on September 7th the Bombers were 4 games behind the Red Sox. All Boston needed was a split to keep the status quo. Even 1 win would allow them to keep a 2 game lead. Instead the Yankees blew the doors off the Red Sox in a 4 game sweep know in the Big Apple as "The Boston Masacre". New York didn't just win those 4 games they pummeled the Red Sox by scoring 15, 13, 7 and 7 runs. Just like that both teams were tied atop the AL East and the Yankees owned all of the momentum. 4 days later the two teams would again do battle, this time for a 3 game weekend set in the Bronx. Before sellout crowds over 55,000 the Yankees won the first 2 games, then lost the finale. The Yankees were now up by 2 1/2 games and the baseball world knew that the Red Sox were dead. Unfortunately, the baseball world forgot to inform the Red Sox of their funeral. Boston, to their credit, rallied back and tied the Yankees by winning on the final day of the season, while the Yankees dropped a 9-2 stinker to Cleveland. That set the stage for the 1 game playoff in Boston on October 2, 1978. The rest they say, "is history".<br />
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New York's strength was a veteran lineup that knew how to win. When the New York tabloids went into full panic mode that summer the team never wavered Bob Lemon was the right guy at the right time. As the team suffered through stagnant play and injuries the fiery Martin made things worse. Lemon's patience paid off as New York executed one of the greatest comebacks in modern baseball history. 31 year old Thurman Munson was the heart and soul of this team. Playing on 2 gimpy knees, which reduced his homer outpu to just 6, he was able to lead his team to the promised land one final time. "Sweet" Lou Piniella (.314) was the only regular to hit over .300. Reggie and Craig Nettles both had solid seasons hitting in the .270's with 27 homers. A cast of minor leaguers helped cover for the injured Willie Randolph, including Brian Doyle who had a post season to remember. Steady veteran Roy White was injured hobbled most of year. Dent, the hero in Fenway, missed 39 games. Unheralded first baseman Chris Chambliss played in all 162 games and knocked in 90 runs. Guidry (25-3, 1.74) dominated AL hitters better than any lefty before or since. Louisiana Lighting fanned 248, including 18 Angels on an otherwise forgettable May night vs the Angels, up at the Stadium. Ed Figueroa (20-9, 2.99) was an outstanding #2 starter, who logged 253 innings and somehow doesn't get the credit he deserved. Led by Guidry the Yankee staff led the AL in ERA. Due to injuries to anticipated starters Don Gullett and Andy Messersmith, swingman Dick Tidrow was moved into the rotation and he gave Lemon 185 solid innings. Rookies Jim Beattie and Ken Clay filled the gap as well. Ancient 32 year old future HOF'er Catfish Hunter (12-6, 3.58) was on his last legs. Still he found a way to log 20 starts. The pen had superstar free agent signee Goose Gossage logging 134 innings and notching 27 saves. His setup man was former closer Sparky Lyle, who won the 1977 AL Cy Young Award. Graig Nettles joked that Lyle, "went from Cy Young to Syanora". Gossage was just that good in '78. He was worth every penny of George Steinbrenner's millions that it took to get him to the Bronx.<br />
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I added 17 new cards to complete the Yankees 1978 set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7Ct2PUrBCxVTulmaMz2K4CLxq7aSdnWqKVLl_TEO03M2t3LgXpfKDePhLeMQUGPx5PxGgOg_m4HzZynSkjJml8U3K-RQP1X4ZZCjBXDLeajxSc1TWiUkJIAl3CQ-TYBzV-SK4eh0Src/s1600/Andy_Messersmith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7Ct2PUrBCxVTulmaMz2K4CLxq7aSdnWqKVLl_TEO03M2t3LgXpfKDePhLeMQUGPx5PxGgOg_m4HzZynSkjJml8U3K-RQP1X4ZZCjBXDLeajxSc1TWiUkJIAl3CQ-TYBzV-SK4eh0Src/s320/Andy_Messersmith.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Messersmith was a 4 time All-Star and Cy Young runner up who was suffering from arm trouble by the time he came to New York in 1978. The Yankees hoped he could rekindle the form that helped him win 20 games twice, but he just had nothing left. Only 3 years earlir he pitched a career high 321 innings for the Dodgers and won 19 games. He would never be the same pitcher after that. In 5 starts (6 games) he was a pitiful 0-3, 5.64. His complete Yankee career would last just 22 innings. The following season he returned to the scene of the 300 inning crime (LA) and rebounded slightly. After the season he hung it up at the ripe old age of 33. I found this spring training photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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Hoping to find someone who could eat up innings the Yankees called Kammeyer up from Triple A Tacoma where he was 12-2, 4.59. In 21 innings he posted a 5.82 ERA for New York and did not get a decision He would play in just 1 more major league game in 1979 and not record an out while allowing 8 runs. He spent both '79 and '80 back at Triple A before being released. His major league debut was on Monday Night Baseball vs the Red Sox. Four of the AAA teams that he played on won championships. After leaving baseball he became a CPA. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibS0Yhq4L36i-D3ZMfSrRaIGkP5smbHBJ6ATm60vHy8Isvnz9kV-7KCxeQcIW1TkC3oxQOsIoGM-DJSR_2koZaJWB_IwjsotBxKy5XVkFAs4G9f1HAxpzlceTRWQmH33UPtkC6kaqTeTs/s1600/Brian_Doyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibS0Yhq4L36i-D3ZMfSrRaIGkP5smbHBJ6ATm60vHy8Isvnz9kV-7KCxeQcIW1TkC3oxQOsIoGM-DJSR_2koZaJWB_IwjsotBxKy5XVkFAs4G9f1HAxpzlceTRWQmH33UPtkC6kaqTeTs/s320/Brian_Doyle.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Doyle's claim to fame was his outstanding 1978 World Series performance in place of the injured Willie Randolph. In six World Series games, he batted .438 with 7 hits in 16 at bats, 1 double, 4 runs scored and 2 RBI's, helping the Yankees to their second straight World Series victory. Many thought that he should have been the series MVP, but because he was a fringe player he wasn't going to be honored. During the regular season he played in just 39 games and hit only .192 with no power numbers whatsoever. In parts of the next 2 seasons as a spare part he hit .125 and .173 respectively before getting his final chance in 1981 with Oakland. In 7 seasons at Triple A he hit just .259. His 15 minutes of fame could not have come at a better time. I found this photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XdKf3ekyulxAzCYUccGGe2y86UFTQXQy9m963LZQYZDfvEVFaVY7NRe6AwXQVLj14mYj5JDVOviGcokfctmM5BMZtn_R7N_IBWehA-jX1IhXeY6Jr59CIEkWb0yxonULZMSjqfrfBDk/s1600/Damaso_Garcia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XdKf3ekyulxAzCYUccGGe2y86UFTQXQy9m963LZQYZDfvEVFaVY7NRe6AwXQVLj14mYj5JDVOviGcokfctmM5BMZtn_R7N_IBWehA-jX1IhXeY6Jr59CIEkWb0yxonULZMSjqfrfBDk/s320/Damaso_Garcia.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
García made his major league debut in 1978 with the New York Yankees He played in 29 games over the following two seasons before being traded with Chris Chambliss and Paul Mirabella to the Toronto Blue Jays for Tom Underwood, Rick Cerone and Ted Wilborn prior to the 1980 season. In 18 games this 21 year old future All Star hit just .195. Once in Toronto he would become a 2 time All-Star. He finished 4th in the ROY voting in 1980. I took his Yankee minor league photo and added the interlocking NY to the jersey. His cap logo isn't visible, so that wasn't an issue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-y0S4JyLZ1-C0fNRGS5Ed5DV-kh8Yi2fzaQlnGY3glYOazpBaxlQ2WVFt07YHnix4yB21DYCsI14vhdO6Sis4zTsd2b6LGbMIqgXbU80ub1mKyGue8ZUnMp1ZN47QWlnPZBfw5kbyww/s1600/Dave_Rajsich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-y0S4JyLZ1-C0fNRGS5Ed5DV-kh8Yi2fzaQlnGY3glYOazpBaxlQ2WVFt07YHnix4yB21DYCsI14vhdO6Sis4zTsd2b6LGbMIqgXbU80ub1mKyGue8ZUnMp1ZN47QWlnPZBfw5kbyww/s320/Dave_Rajsich.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Rajsich appeared in 4 games (2 starts) for the Yankees in 1978. He had a 4.05 ERA without a decisions. At the end of the season he was part of a blockbuster deal with the Rangers that netted the Yankees future standout Dave Righetti. He spent 2 seasons with Texas and saw limited action. Most of his time was spent on the AAA level. To his credit he never surrendered the dream as he bounced from one organization to another on the minor league level until 1988 when he was 6-8, 2.86 with Louisville (STL-AAA). this photo was taken during his minor league years in the Yankee chain.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0X_BrjV4uOqW0j95fBGnyTRpoEFmR-4aGmCqIuV_yFik_ogV_H8gMN2vB7CcGsnU3ZN1Qan8azeztmzOEaErG5yMwizb6DmVJotvSUiR3SgHfKxfgd_2xj0JQ99Q_rrkMgLDHkitSjgs/s1600/Dennis_Sherrill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0X_BrjV4uOqW0j95fBGnyTRpoEFmR-4aGmCqIuV_yFik_ogV_H8gMN2vB7CcGsnU3ZN1Qan8azeztmzOEaErG5yMwizb6DmVJotvSUiR3SgHfKxfgd_2xj0JQ99Q_rrkMgLDHkitSjgs/s320/Dennis_Sherrill.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Sherrill spent 5 seasons in the Yankee farm system before getting called up to the big club in 1978. At the time he was playing at West Haven (AA) and hitting .292. New York needed middle infield help due to injuries to Dent and Randolph and they were willing to try anyone in the organization. In 2 games Sherrill got 1 at bat and scored 1 run without getting a hit. In 1980 he returned for 3 games and collected his one and only hit. This photo came from his 1979 Columbus Clippers card. I changed the logo and go got rid of the Clippers red.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrYl1fbQtp3eovNyDQQnLxcFRKr-n23mC7AsJ1rBgLEL0CEavTTJ2VDa0n2Rl0j61htDaXuHQ5f49ZScct7mvhw3tl1BXiBpyHIL7bWfDv8FJcQxOSJ7sJGFlVe2ltjV613zlrMDzMs4/s1600/Domingo_Ramos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrYl1fbQtp3eovNyDQQnLxcFRKr-n23mC7AsJ1rBgLEL0CEavTTJ2VDa0n2Rl0j61htDaXuHQ5f49ZScct7mvhw3tl1BXiBpyHIL7bWfDv8FJcQxOSJ7sJGFlVe2ltjV613zlrMDzMs4/s320/Domingo_Ramos.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
The 20 year old Ramos was summoned from Triple A Tacoma for 1 game to help out the Yankees middle infield situation. He would never play another game for New York. At the end of the season he was part of the previously mentioned blockbuster deal with Texas, who he never played for either. Instead he was sold to the Blue Jays where he played a handful of games before being a rule 5 draftee by the Mariners. From 1982-1987 he found his niche as a utility infielder in Seattle. He would move on to 3 more organizations in that same roll. His best sesaon (1987) saw him hit .311 in 42 games. This card came from the same minor league set that the Damaso Garcia photo came from. The same airbrush job was done on the jersey.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsrUSLD41_0rXzh3sacMrDQ3G4F38P7M0Nm3QaqKBsZI4z6h0clAd-vnvfX_5vrRiavZa8DMxkwLEfq2NdY05mIUeTXezt2viIyCU-YUiEMsCL8mWJgjFi3tDvduSzyrrQ3vlhx3in38/s1600/Gary_Thomasson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsrUSLD41_0rXzh3sacMrDQ3G4F38P7M0Nm3QaqKBsZI4z6h0clAd-vnvfX_5vrRiavZa8DMxkwLEfq2NdY05mIUeTXezt2viIyCU-YUiEMsCL8mWJgjFi3tDvduSzyrrQ3vlhx3in38/s320/Gary_Thomasson.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Thomasson played his whole career for California based team minus the 55 games he played for the Yankees in 1978. He started the season in Oakland and arrived in New York on June 15th in exchange for Dell Alston and Mickey Klutts. Thomasson did a great job as the Yankees 4th outfielder and late inning defensive replacement. He caught the final out of the 1978 Series. He hit .276 in 116 at bats for New York I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigc7sbJ0oJNuI3OaQhMOcCrAwMVYeq087O6X9KWbex0IqxgbjdapoLqbB17IumOdn0YQPV9oP2xmo0YlRyuT5i2jCrRZYNmGMbEok-S92viRGYapMYvDT4ZhY4d8ix4qpD9FXS2dPwt-k/s1600/Jay_Johnstone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigc7sbJ0oJNuI3OaQhMOcCrAwMVYeq087O6X9KWbex0IqxgbjdapoLqbB17IumOdn0YQPV9oP2xmo0YlRyuT5i2jCrRZYNmGMbEok-S92viRGYapMYvDT4ZhY4d8ix4qpD9FXS2dPwt-k/s320/Jay_Johnstone.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
By 1978 Johnstone was a well traveled veteran lefty bat that contenders coveted. Having arrived in the majors as a 20 year old in 1966 with the Angels, Johnstone was in his 13th big league campaign in 1978. He began the season with the Phillies and was traded along with Bobby Brown to the Yankees for a beat up Rawly Eastwick. In 36 games in the Bronx as a pinch hitter and part time DH he hit .262 with 6 RBI's. He would get traded exactly 1 year to the day later to the Padres. He ended his career with a .267 lifetime average and 1,748 games played over 20 big league seasons.<br />
<b>Fun Fact:</b> Johnstone was know as one of the games greatest pranksters. He is credited with stuffing his shirt, graying his hair and walking around Dodgertown pretending to be Tommy Lasorda. You can read about his exploits in one of his 3 books or by <a href="http://sabr.org/bioproj/person/cccff0fd">clicking here</a> and reading a neat article by SABR. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdBnNEUpEC014sIhLaqIbAClX-IrolIaS2iCSNnna8pBUT8X51eSPwPM36xmesSxAedcOgUAaR-e4qBSctyyUi-EDYq2m7OugRCkHpRB3BS41TxDZS0nxvW3UE-k_3bZM7IJtgzipLCo/s1600/Jim_Beattie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdBnNEUpEC014sIhLaqIbAClX-IrolIaS2iCSNnna8pBUT8X51eSPwPM36xmesSxAedcOgUAaR-e4qBSctyyUi-EDYq2m7OugRCkHpRB3BS41TxDZS0nxvW3UE-k_3bZM7IJtgzipLCo/s320/Jim_Beattie.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Beattie was considered "the jewel" of the Yankee farm system in the late 70's, but he and other phenoms Ken Clay and Gil Patterson were frustrated when the Yankees kept signing veterans like Gullett, Eastwick, Messersmith and Gossage. Thanks to injuries he made the big club right out of Spring training and won his first start in a battle vs future HOF'er Jim Palmer. He won his next start then fell into a rut dropping his next 7 decisions in a row. He finally righted the ship and won two key games vs Boston down the stretch as well as a win in the ALCS and World Series. He finished the season 6-9, 3.73 in 22 starts. After a sub-par '79 season he was packaged in a deal to Seattle that brought Ruppert Jones to the Yankees. He would put together 7 successful seasons in Seattle until arm trouble hit. He moved into the front office as a GM for both Montreal and Baltimore. This autographed photo came from ebay.<br />
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Only George Steinbrenner would trade for a gold glove 1st Baseman like Spencer, when he already had his carbon copy in Chambliss. Spencer who won 2 gold gloves was now relegated to the role of DH. If he was that stout a hitter he wouldn't have been a guy who consistently played just vs righties and had a lifetime .250 average. Such was the logic in the Bronx. Spencer was a good soldier and did not complain He played in 71 games and hit just .227 in 1978 with 7 homers. With increased playing time the following season he hit .288 with 23 homers, which was by far his best season in the biggs. The Yankees rewarded him by trading Chambliss, which should have paved the way for him to start at first. Instead they went out and signed Bob Watson and once again Spencer was a part time / platoon player. Pictured here is his 1978 Burger King mid season update card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnXeXY_uR5nqHg4IUkAt2RNgjPG_0mpBzZrFQbnUTk6klB0MK-QLQUvC8iIDf-wa0iCUBV1nO-i-zIiGeGmFuF6iKvnYIXvJSuNCQhCsvk8Moi0LZ8TJUFl8goPi7wVHnhpzDzcsr3Ro/s1600/Larry_McCall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnXeXY_uR5nqHg4IUkAt2RNgjPG_0mpBzZrFQbnUTk6klB0MK-QLQUvC8iIDf-wa0iCUBV1nO-i-zIiGeGmFuF6iKvnYIXvJSuNCQhCsvk8Moi0LZ8TJUFl8goPi7wVHnhpzDzcsr3Ro/s320/Larry_McCall.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Desperate for arms, due to injury, the Yanks dug deep into their minor league system and brought up Larry McCall, who pitched in 5 games (1 start). McCall had a 1-1, 5.63 record in 16 innings of work. He would get a second cup of coffee in '79 then disappear back into the minors where he bounced from the Yankees to the Rangers to the Indians and then finally the Blue Jays organization. His final season in professional ball was 1981 at Syracuse (AAA-TOR). This photo came from that same minor league set that I found Garcia's. This was the only one that required the interlocking NY to be added to the cap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NxJ0lY_v5U2FzVpqIMyNarwVjTZa-VKR8GaGlODq9i3QFNkDiKM8yV8tWG_jR0Ht8KvDUKaInLarnBWZBrxZqq3D8zHiyJYuVB4LF9BxnJmEvQNotZDotX2cOjj7Ym8gW2b4ry5I0_o/s1600/Mickey_Klutts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NxJ0lY_v5U2FzVpqIMyNarwVjTZa-VKR8GaGlODq9i3QFNkDiKM8yV8tWG_jR0Ht8KvDUKaInLarnBWZBrxZqq3D8zHiyJYuVB4LF9BxnJmEvQNotZDotX2cOjj7Ym8gW2b4ry5I0_o/s320/Mickey_Klutts.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Klutts was a hard nosed utility infielder, who was a favorite of Billy Martin who managed him in both New York and Oakland. He batted a perfect 1.000 in 1978 (2-2) in his one game in the Bronx, which was an April 15th win over the Chisox at the Stadium. After being traded to Oakland in the Thomasson deal he played the rest of the season in Vancouver (AAA), where he hit .293. He spent parts of the next 4 seasons in Oakland and hit .269 in almost 200 AB's in 1980 and .370 in 46 AB's during the strike shortened 1981 season. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OmPwLn3Gtr9TRsjEfqnNeY4mpeXyURS33m3rHtefIfg4Qj0NN6T-VPbVpShQQEGUrY7-6e76wWKzcCEmNvVSWSQ-P1SItGnA-J9DveWHIUsPf49VYzXQODNHiztXA_zut_CLfVlSwXU/s1600/Mike_Heath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OmPwLn3Gtr9TRsjEfqnNeY4mpeXyURS33m3rHtefIfg4Qj0NN6T-VPbVpShQQEGUrY7-6e76wWKzcCEmNvVSWSQ-P1SItGnA-J9DveWHIUsPf49VYzXQODNHiztXA_zut_CLfVlSwXU/s320/Mike_Heath.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Heath was destined to be Munson's backup for a long time to come. The Yankees figured that they were set at the catcher's position for at least the next 5 years, so they included heath in the Righetti deal with Texas. He spent the balance of the '78 season in AAA then was traded to Oakland where he blossomed into a front like catcher for the next 10-12 years. During the '78 season he hit .228 in 92 at bats, which encompassed 33 games behind the dish. I found this autographed photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6ctB8p6A5NxViQxRoAJGjsj4-SOyDqy8YthbJeAVAKeII-i1AVxLxjBnIUQuGq90WHO7ZXQWAxyLjAckO5mxI4CqkWyDUj4U0m519lx27HA20oFpY06Us4YTUxeKyihIq_tP1T6ETVk/s1600/Paul_Lindblad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6ctB8p6A5NxViQxRoAJGjsj4-SOyDqy8YthbJeAVAKeII-i1AVxLxjBnIUQuGq90WHO7ZXQWAxyLjAckO5mxI4CqkWyDUj4U0m519lx27HA20oFpY06Us4YTUxeKyihIq_tP1T6ETVk/s320/Paul_Lindblad.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Lindy arrived mid season from Texas in the hopes that his 38 year old body had one more stretch run left in it. Having pitched out of the A's pen during their dynasty years he was a known commodity for getting lefties out. He pitched in just 7 games for the Bombers posted a 4.42 ERA, which did not instill confidence by management. 1978 would turn out to be his 14th and final season in the majors. Pictured here is his Burger King update card.<br />
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The extent of Eastwick's career in the Bronx was 8 relief appearances early in the season before being dealt to Philly for Jay Johnstone. In just under 25 innings of work Eastwick had a 2-1, 3.28 record. He would not be as successful in Philly. He had an amazing 2 seasons in 1975 and 1976 as the Reds closer, where he lead the league in saves twice and won two championships. This is his Burger King update card taken in Spring Training.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-LMHkNx9KYuuCvCmBrDr52MJTW6RuLLoCbV8J_rnHkgo1Cs2_ckYJKvkO7Uu9TFfmb2CeZh3TSblVRSqcOKTmDlZLA5P3QU-Io4Gboy-B6jrsAfulW_D_WwMmkCdsqCZlSGFHwQ2Mjug/s1600/Ron_Davis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-LMHkNx9KYuuCvCmBrDr52MJTW6RuLLoCbV8J_rnHkgo1Cs2_ckYJKvkO7Uu9TFfmb2CeZh3TSblVRSqcOKTmDlZLA5P3QU-Io4Gboy-B6jrsAfulW_D_WwMmkCdsqCZlSGFHwQ2Mjug/s320/Ron_Davis.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Davis had two call-ups to the Bronx during the '78 season. First in late July where he pitched in 1 game vs Minnesota and gave up 2 runs without recording an out. As part of the September call ups he was thrown right into the fire and got the final out on September 8th vs Boston. His 2 subsequent outings saw him pitch 2 more innings and give up 2 runs (1 earned). While in the minors that season Davis was having an amazing year at Double A West Haven where he went 9-2, 1.50 with 5 saves. 1979 would mark an amazing season for Davis (14-2, 2.85, 9sv), who replaced Sparky Lyle as Gossage's setup man. After 2 more seasons setting up Gossage he requested a trade and was sent to Minnesota for Roy Smalley, where he became the Twins closer for the next 4 seasons. Davis, ever the competitor refused to quit baseball when his stuff began to disappear in his early 30's. He took an assignment to AAA Phoenix (SFG) for 2 years and then back with the Yankees Columbus team before hanging it up in 1990. His claim to fame today is that his son is Ike Davis, the Mets slugging 1st baseman.ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-10684835333228510872012-12-27T11:47:00.001-08:002012-12-27T11:47:33.236-08:00The Royal Flush<br />
For most of the summer the Royals played "cat and mouse" with the Rangers and Angels, but by late August they asserted themselves to finally take the division lead. During September they ran their lead up to 6 games. A mid September series vs California where they took 2 of 3 boosted their lead to 4.5 and they never looked back. Playing just 8 games during the month of September vs teams with a winning record sure helped. Having a scrappy team lead by Whitey Herzog that was a 2 time defending AL West Champ did not hurt either. Herzog's team was built around pitching and speed, which was his hallmark. This Royals team did not hit more than 100 homers and had just 1 guy (Amos Otis), who hit more than 20. What they did have was a lineup with 8 guys who stole 10 or more bases. Rookie Willie Wilson, who reached base just 61 times stole an incredible 46 bags. Freddie Patek stole 38 and Otis had 32 thefts. Even superstar George Brett, who failed to hit .300, swiped 23. This perpetual moving machine managed to score the 3rd most runs in the league despite not having one .300 hitter who played every day. Couple that with a gold glove caliber infield and an equally adept outfield and you have a team that could beat you on both sides of the ball.<br />
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27 year old Dennis Leonard (21-17, 3.33) anchored the staff by posting 20 complete games in nearly 300 innings. Herzog basically had a 4 man rotation. Instead of a 5th starter he spread 28 starts among 5 other pitchers. The big disappointment would be Steve Busby, who at a very young age showed flashed of brilliance while pitching 2 no hitters. At the age of 28 Busby was suffering from shoulder issues. Herzog gave him 5 starts to recapture the magic, but physically his body was done. Yankee killer, Larry Gura, was 16-4, 2.72 in over 220 innings. Paul Splittorff was 1 game shy of 20 wins and youngster Rich Gale (14-8, 3.09) might have been the best #4 guy in the league that year. The "Mad Hungarian" Al Hrabosky (8-7, 2.88, 20sv) came over from cross state rival St. Louis to solidify the bullpen. KC's pen, which seemed to falter in big games needed a take charge guy in big situations. Hrabosky was viewed as the guy who could come up big down the stretch and in the post season, where they lost in the ALCS to the Yankees in each of the past 2 seasons.<br />
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After taking care of business in AL West a well rested Royals team was poised to wrestle AL dominance from a Yankee team that was coming off a 1 game playoff win vs Boston. Once again though, the power team from the Bronx edged out the speed team from KC in another classic LCS (more on that later).<br />
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16 new cards were added to round out the Royals team set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2vUv0eeGzvzapvAeFUk64Rlld2SszF7G0PmK68Bnyg-pyyDkjPWllEettlGGvkEl0fbHA2cHYaCW39z-RgGVkwgqnzmioYm0LQjsREGTqa697wlR5axwVucFZMCZVAjXTuH0IJv7xic/s1600/Al_Hrabosky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2vUv0eeGzvzapvAeFUk64Rlld2SszF7G0PmK68Bnyg-pyyDkjPWllEettlGGvkEl0fbHA2cHYaCW39z-RgGVkwgqnzmioYm0LQjsREGTqa697wlR5axwVucFZMCZVAjXTuH0IJv7xic/s320/Al_Hrabosky.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Hrabosky "the Mad Hungarian" had himself some shtick when he would enter games. Since he didn't have overpowering stuff he relied mainly on guile and antics. For the previous 2 seasons it seemed to work well for him in St. Louis. The growling at the hitters, the slamming of the rosin bag and of course the one man huddle behind the mound. This shtick and his ability to get hitters out late in games got him enough votes to finish in the top 10 twice for NL Cy Young balloting. Moving cross stated gave him a new place and a new league to impress. Hrabosky had a fine season (8-7, 2.88, 20sv) anchoring a bullpen that was known for having good regular seasons, but awful post seasons. Unfortunately for him, and the Royals, manager Herzog called on him one batter too late in one of the most pivotal playoff games the franchise would participate in (spoiler alert...). Hrabosky spent 2 seasons in KC before his act wore thin. He would finish his career off with 3 nondescript seasons in Atlanta before hanging it up at 32.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsp7yKeOwgigScdIKfAVDgpNBpmVyIwtXZSshyphenhypheng7zUhhpWJP3WSWis6KYY2-01AT5NQMZt7mV_G851FHkU4Ro6nDbhb1YAT_9J4s0_YIe42ebs3aH7uAtxhqILLKBMo3k4tFUtoTSaSA/s1600/Art_Kusnyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsp7yKeOwgigScdIKfAVDgpNBpmVyIwtXZSshyphenhypheng7zUhhpWJP3WSWis6KYY2-01AT5NQMZt7mV_G851FHkU4Ro6nDbhb1YAT_9J4s0_YIe42ebs3aH7uAtxhqILLKBMo3k4tFUtoTSaSA/s320/Art_Kusnyer.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>
<a href="http://bobscustomcards.blogspot.com/2012_07_01_archive.html">Bobscustomcards</a> created this 1978 card for career backup catcher Art Kusnyer. Not much good can be said about a 32 year old journeyman catcher who was a career .176 hitter. One would think that he fell into the "catch and throw" category, but his error ratio during his limited MLB exposure was horrific. What Kusnyer did do was string his RBI's in bunches. He had 21 lifetime and 11 were accounted for in two 3 RBI games and one 5 RBI game. On June 26, 1978 he hit his only home run of the season for the Royals (he had just 3 hits) against All-Star pitcher Frank Tanana. For the season he got into just 9 games and hit .231 (3-13). In 61 games at Omaha (AAA) he didn't fare much better hitting .234. Kusnyer would spend one more year in the minors (1979), which would be the luckiest year of his career. His minor league manager, one Tony LaRussa, took a liking to him. When LaRussa was tapped to manage the White Sox later that year Kusnyer was invited to be his bullpen coach. That was the beginning of a relationship that would last over 30 years across 3 franchises that LaRussa piloted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLOHf74Icggl9Rk3Hm9MnFQK6pmR03nLK9xxE7GPiUoI0WqhBMr4Vz0dGEMlK_8LPed8GYOBOh-WmFsn6WYLzmzytqBum3tR4jJ9MSLsU34GISwa4JUA1l0rYBI65SE7Cdzb5wIlPwaw/s1600/Bill_Paschall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLOHf74Icggl9Rk3Hm9MnFQK6pmR03nLK9xxE7GPiUoI0WqhBMr4Vz0dGEMlK_8LPed8GYOBOh-WmFsn6WYLzmzytqBum3tR4jJ9MSLsU34GISwa4JUA1l0rYBI65SE7Cdzb5wIlPwaw/s320/Bill_Paschall.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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As a minor leaguer, Paschall was serviceable As a major leaguer, during his 3 cups of Joe, he was barely used. His best season at Omaha was 1978 (14-9, 3.63), which is why he was brought up to the big club. For the Royals he got into 2 games and posted an 0-1, 3.38 record in 8 innings on the hill. He would get two more brief shots in 1979 and 1981 before being released. In total he pitched in 11 games during his 3 stints with the Royals. This photo came from his Omaha minor league card.<br />
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Now you know I'm not a fan of the BHNH photos that the boys at 1 Whitehall street were so adept at using on at least 15-20% of their cards each year. Typically my updates feature a player in full cap and uniform. I made an exception in this case, because this photo appeared on the cover of SI, and I loved those covers except for the off white sticker that usually had my address on it. I did some airbrushing to remove the text and decided to make this his card photo. Hurdle, who today has made a name for himself as a well traveled manager, was a great utility player for the Royals. 1978 marked the first time this first round pick (9th overall) saw extended action. Hurdle played 5 positions and hit a solid .264 with 7 homers in over 400 AB's. That's pretty much the type of player he would be for the rest of his career. Hurdle had the bad luck of playing for the Mets in '85 and finishing 2nd to the Cards, who he played for in '86 and finished 2nd to the Mets. Then in '87 he returned to the Mets and finished 2nd once again to the Cards. Talk about timing.<br />
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After hitting .300 at AAA Omaha Cripe received a September call up to join the Royals. In just 7 games he hit .154 (2-13). His 1st major league hit occurred on September 10th and came off of Nolan Ryan. He would return to the minors for 2 more seasons before being released. Whitey Herzog had this to say about him after the season, "Dave really didn't get a chance to play much with us last September because of the divisional race, but we know he is a pretty good hitter. We also know he can play third and we'll watch him closely in the spring." You get the feeling that Whitey was trying to be kind here. Cripe could have been the next Brooks Robinson at the hot corner and he wasn't going to get a look at third with future HOF'er George Brett entrenched there. I took a B&W photo, colorized it and superimposed it on a Royals Stadium background. Notice the ugly Astroturf ? It's hard to find a photo of Royals Stadium that has the turf on it.<br />
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Not to be confused with his namesake who walked 4,000 miles across America, this George Throop just walked major leaguers at an alarming rate during his 5 mini-seasons in the majors. Throop pitched in just 1 game for the Royals in 1978 and allowed no runs, 2 hits and 3 walks in 3 innings of work. He would log 42 innings during his major league career with 22 of them coming after being traded to Houston in 1979 for serviceable utility man Keith Drumright. Throop, who possessed an intimidating 6'7" physique struggled with his control. In the minors he could intimidate hitters into swinging at bad pitchers, but not in the majors. When he threw strikes, batters usually hit him. His numbers at Omaha in 1979 prove that out (12-10, 5.47 with 170 hits in 153 innings. I colorized this B&W photo for my '77 project and decided to re-use it since he really didn't see much action.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3d_23IhfI-cRYdXza46jlRry0L-m8B6Y9KhdeDYRXf0dEDITC5CVxbou8OqTErCk5gtQGcIxS5C9E6bIc7cFmIhg8XA-dU25yn8HzRXvhBgb5vhjI2JeFlKO4PiXTm5948QVi_SaA3aM/s1600/Jamie_Quirk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3d_23IhfI-cRYdXza46jlRry0L-m8B6Y9KhdeDYRXf0dEDITC5CVxbou8OqTErCk5gtQGcIxS5C9E6bIc7cFmIhg8XA-dU25yn8HzRXvhBgb5vhjI2JeFlKO4PiXTm5948QVi_SaA3aM/s320/Jamie_Quirk.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Quirk spent 18 seasons in the big leagues as a member of 8 different franchises. He spent 11 of those seasons in Kansas City during 3 separate tours of duty. 1978 marked the start of this utility man's second tour in KC after a 1 year detour in Milwaukee. Quirk got into 17 games and hit just .207. He would serve his utility man roll for 5 seasons before moving across the state to St. Louis in '83. He would return in 1985, just in time to be part of KC's only World Championship team. He would finish out his career in Oakland in the early 90's and win another ring. Most of his action in '78 came at Milwaukee's Spokane AAA team where he hit .292 in 97 games. He also spent time in the Mexican league in 1979 and back in the minors in '84, '85 and '89. Pictured as a Brewer on his '78 card I used an autographed photo found on ebay for this updated card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4M6c6GBCOS7poObzirndl2JvUxIr5LgIJ0Cu07i2BpdviaoZUuUIwfVNe8m-qgSnE6wpRT8cb8tszsBMjZRAJ6fBS2PLeunb-ui5dJbvsA7owIwQH8v_C3gc-MDYAF1teARb9PW6g174/s1600/Jim_Gaudet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4M6c6GBCOS7poObzirndl2JvUxIr5LgIJ0Cu07i2BpdviaoZUuUIwfVNe8m-qgSnE6wpRT8cb8tszsBMjZRAJ6fBS2PLeunb-ui5dJbvsA7owIwQH8v_C3gc-MDYAF1teARb9PW6g174/s320/Jim_Gaudet.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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This former 6th round draft pick was a standout ball player while attending his hometown Tulane in NOLA. Never a prime star as he eased his way up the minor league system. Gaudet hit just .222 in 107 games as Omaha's primary receiver. He was called up in September and got into 3 games (8 AB's) and did not log a hit. The same scenario followed in 1979. In his first game back on September 1st he posted his only major league hit. He would float around the minors for the next 3 seasons before hitting .143 for Syracuse (TOR-AAA), which signaled the end of his career. I found this photo while doing a Google search<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmgk_c_DGy0rdtQv2y653vJaTzAbM95qDnb9bqAK4rfvoI2oOof0Cl2_uPv-yKTPQg3UeAILwHYTwiRX7MK3nP6rIUMQPQVRHJrLpjbWVH7FMbKUo4PwZP_f46-s4jqn7uumCeggYVq8/s1600/Luis_Silverio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmgk_c_DGy0rdtQv2y653vJaTzAbM95qDnb9bqAK4rfvoI2oOof0Cl2_uPv-yKTPQg3UeAILwHYTwiRX7MK3nP6rIUMQPQVRHJrLpjbWVH7FMbKUo4PwZP_f46-s4jqn7uumCeggYVq8/s320/Luis_Silverio.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Silverio had himself an 8 game major league career, but his numbers sure jump out at you. In 11 at bats he got 6 hits. Two were doubles and 1 was a triple. His lifetime average will stand forever at .545 and his OPS was an off the charts 1.524. Why did this corner outfield phenom fail to make it??? The answer lies in the numbers that he posted in 9 seasons in the minors. During that same 1978 season he hit .230 at Omaha. He got injured in '79 and had to return to rookie ball for conditioning. In 1980, back at Omaha, he hit just .214. 1981 saw him demoted once again. He did pick it up again in 1982, where he hit .260 at Omaha, but injuries sapped him of his speed and power, which led to his eventual release. Upon his release he became a coach for the next 35 years in the Royals organization Still he has one of those awesome outlier numbers that sports sim managers love to have on their bench ! Pictured here on his card he is wearing his Omaha cap, which is where he spent the better part of his career.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOV1iNJCjfwEt3IXQ7T15f8IpvW8V1JBxuYGrPjsEeig52Q3G6ybWebMVLoFnHORt4qwv17OO5m4KWPu9nad2YJDofgleORigeW4hbo5bCbxBncEu_IptfPUAyttcEIWfWUwHAfooMJs/s1600/Randy_Bass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOV1iNJCjfwEt3IXQ7T15f8IpvW8V1JBxuYGrPjsEeig52Q3G6ybWebMVLoFnHORt4qwv17OO5m4KWPu9nad2YJDofgleORigeW4hbo5bCbxBncEu_IptfPUAyttcEIWfWUwHAfooMJs/s320/Randy_Bass.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Sold to the Royals during the offseason Bass played in just 2 games and went hit-less in 2 AB's in KC during the '78 season. In Omaha he had a monster season (.279-22-78). In fact he was a monster every step of the way in the minors. He was a can't miss prospect, who just couldn't hit major league pitching. After having another monster minor league season at Denver (AAA-TEX) he left the US and headed to the Japanese league where he spent 6 seasons. Those seasons elevated him to legendary status. During one season he hit over .400. Another season he hit 55 homers and was poised to break Sadahara Oh's record. Japanese pitchers refused to pitch to him for fear of a foreigner breaking he great Oh's record. He even delivered a championship to his Hanshin Tigers team. Still to this day the great and mighty "Ba-su" is revered in Japan as an all time great. I used his rookie panel card B&W photo for this card. Due to it's grainy composition it was almost impossible to colorize. <a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1065766/index.htm">Click here</a> to read a great SI article about his stay in Japan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3O67v5iNj9MRw11Utkzj84Js-I97cHfetDBlxRYkv0pc_uFy-M45f0KnMQ_49Xl3hR4U5jLvXQVztXU3KjyZIS_Q-1nBfjnvBq0h85sAhloZEQIG1sxFOXg06uJrmhM5b-JWnUkqp7Hc/s1600/Randy_McGilberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3O67v5iNj9MRw11Utkzj84Js-I97cHfetDBlxRYkv0pc_uFy-M45f0KnMQ_49Xl3hR4U5jLvXQVztXU3KjyZIS_Q-1nBfjnvBq0h85sAhloZEQIG1sxFOXg06uJrmhM5b-JWnUkqp7Hc/s320/Randy_McGilberry.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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1978 marked the 2nd and final appearance in a Royals, or any major league team's, uniform for McGilberry. After going 1-4, 2.84 in 25 games for Omaha he was called up to the parent club in KC. McGilberry logged 25 innings over 18 games and finished with a 0-1, 4.21 record. He would return to Omaha in 1979 and have a sub-par season, so the Royals traded him to the Mets for equally disappointing Kevin Kobel. At Triple A Tidewater he seemed to pitch batting practice (3-4, 6.25) and was eventually released. This photo comes from his minor league card. I added the KC logo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3McLC3Ttt7BppdPJ9S_jtB0cS3klPx_i3ERnYfFoKXfr0HW6dzjW4CwCVzDvrGv-nGp1fqHqkUhk9VhJltUp_9g9fsp973bDZh9VJsFKMUBsSxSip9B7x_1IHsrWnqwBjKrNJyMZFtw/s1600/Rich_Gale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3McLC3Ttt7BppdPJ9S_jtB0cS3klPx_i3ERnYfFoKXfr0HW6dzjW4CwCVzDvrGv-nGp1fqHqkUhk9VhJltUp_9g9fsp973bDZh9VJsFKMUBsSxSip9B7x_1IHsrWnqwBjKrNJyMZFtw/s320/Rich_Gale.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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The 6'7" imposing Gale's most productive season came in his rookie year (1978), when he went 14–8 with 88 strikeouts and a 3.09 ERA, including a 5–0, one-hit shutout against the Texas Rangers at Royals Stadium on June 13, 1978. His no-hitter bid was broken up by Al Oliver with a triple in the fourth inning. Gale finished fourth in the American League Rookie of the Year vote in 1978. In 1979, Gale faded to 9–10, but he resurfaced with a 13–9 mark in 1980, helping his team the reach the 1980 World Series. He started games three and six of the Series, going 0–1 with a 4.25 ERA against the eventual World Champion Philadelphia Phillies. During the next three seasons his playing time was limited by arm injuries and he did not pitch again in a major league game after 1984.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Pbxr6JOGQv26kL-E8B-ZXh0bbr1IX8LwDQYPZIoT2IfpwhE7hclSyvtiBH4KcoO-Fx3msYpBSBuX3-yxuqbN3pwMmEI25Yb117nrfemeCoUP397289eJqmDPQZ7gouOMlCoTNAj-m_c/s1600/Steve_Braun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Pbxr6JOGQv26kL-E8B-ZXh0bbr1IX8LwDQYPZIoT2IfpwhE7hclSyvtiBH4KcoO-Fx3msYpBSBuX3-yxuqbN3pwMmEI25Yb117nrfemeCoUP397289eJqmDPQZ7gouOMlCoTNAj-m_c/s320/Steve_Braun.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Braun spent 15 years in the majors as a fine utility man and clutch lefty bat off the bench. He filled that role to perfection in his 2 full seasons in KC ('78-'79). During the '78 season he hit .263 in 137 AB's. He posted similar numbers the following season. He recorded over 100 career pinch hits. He earned a ring with the Cardinals filling the utility role to perfection. The early part of his career was spent in Minnesota, where he saw extensive action. He batted in the .280's but did not exhibit much power. His final shot at being a regular occurred for the expansion Mariners in 1977, where he hit just .235 in 139 games. He played in 32 games for the M's during the '78 season before being dealt to the Royals for pitcher Jim Colburn. He finished his career on the '85 Cardinal pennant winner and compiled a lifetime .271 average. I found this autographed photo, which looks like it was taken at Comiskey, on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVfzM5UCF1au7bIMkElOaLP0kP5_9x3CtRchRjpA6Fp4IgVXznX5WvbDBVsmG08Xace-PYWN0lTFCgTD1NcMESbb8F6o36VMOLuWfV3sjXFJOrb6DMBLqrp81KDIxurLrKwigXoQVLmdc/s1600/Steve_Foucault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVfzM5UCF1au7bIMkElOaLP0kP5_9x3CtRchRjpA6Fp4IgVXznX5WvbDBVsmG08Xace-PYWN0lTFCgTD1NcMESbb8F6o36VMOLuWfV3sjXFJOrb6DMBLqrp81KDIxurLrKwigXoQVLmdc/s320/Steve_Foucault.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Foucault was selected off of waivers by the Royals on August 16, 1978 from the Detroit Tigers. He appeared in just 3 games and was released on September 5th. He never played in the majors again. Houston took a chance on him in 1979 and sent him to Charleston (AAA), where he was horrible (0-2, 7.71) in just 5 games (7 innings) of action. His best years were during his 4 year tenure in Texas, where he was a workhorse out of the pen. In 1974 he compiled an 8-9, 2.24, 12sv record for a horrible Rangers team. He had double digit saves the following season as well as in 1977 with Detroit. Due to his brief stay in KC I could not find any photos of him in a Royals uniform. I took his '75 SSPC card and airbrushed out the Texas colors and logos and added the appropriate KC look.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJklDcNmI0RCMqHkLAiT1Yv7HxSKkNSGRTQ_YuU0OLfNbxLtPkxHsgdXZmNQyOHWpO1kh7Us3DuW1IcXvCbTwWfI8mP1CCgidXMEaVSog6qrEyZ-A4wK-KwVyWhkaGAwfJJrDFzHnF1U/s1600/U.L._Washington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJklDcNmI0RCMqHkLAiT1Yv7HxSKkNSGRTQ_YuU0OLfNbxLtPkxHsgdXZmNQyOHWpO1kh7Us3DuW1IcXvCbTwWfI8mP1CCgidXMEaVSog6qrEyZ-A4wK-KwVyWhkaGAwfJJrDFzHnF1U/s320/U.L._Washington.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Used primarily as a pinch runner and defensive replacement during the '78 season, Washington was well on way toward earning the Royals starting shortstop role. In 69 games during the '78 season he hit .264 and stole 12 bases. By 1980-83 he would hold down the starting shortstop spot for KC. By 1984 he was a part time player and in 1985 he was dealt to the Expos for two nondescript minor leaguers. After 1 season in Montreal he moved on to Pittsburgh where he spent extensive time over the next two seasons back in the minor leagues. After hanging them up he became a coach in the Royals system and was reactivated for 1 game in 1992 at their AA affiliate in Memphis. Known for his trademark toothpick in his mouth, Washington was also on base when Brett hit his famous "Pine Tar" game homer in 1983. I found this great action shot on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghh7mEnR1lFLByIl1lvv0nqdoEPYHN1m306lNrDpesizwHdttifW2rfbokjzjogbLCG_6ZZxONE4qPBSnqOz4lD4nacmb85O69ocR4TNCyaViUzBumRBDyFi0QzhyphenhyphenuNlWT6X_ZIG2WyCg/s1600/Willie_Wilson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghh7mEnR1lFLByIl1lvv0nqdoEPYHN1m306lNrDpesizwHdttifW2rfbokjzjogbLCG_6ZZxONE4qPBSnqOz4lD4nacmb85O69ocR4TNCyaViUzBumRBDyFi0QzhyphenhyphenuNlWT6X_ZIG2WyCg/s320/Willie_Wilson.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Wilson, in my mind, is a first ballot nominee for the Hall of the Very Good. His lifetime .285 average, 2,207 hits and 668 stolen bases scream out "Very Good, but not HOF material". Wilson was the catalyst for the early 80's Royals team. His 1980 season, where he had 230 hits and hit .236 was off the charts. In 1982 he won the AL batting title. Along the way he had several All-Star appearances, a few silver slugger awards and a gold glove. He led the league in triples 5 times and for 15 consecutive seasons he logged double digits in stole bases. Having a switch hitter with speed like Wilson's really makes a team go. As a 22 year old rookie in 1978 he hit just .217 in 198 at bats. He miraculously swiped 46 bags even though he only had 43 hits. He retired in 1994 at the age of 38. I found this action shot while doing a Google search. Not sure what season it was from, although he was missing his trademark beard.<br />
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-58477311964230686952012-12-26T15:35:00.000-08:002012-12-26T15:35:21.775-08:00Motown 9<br />
After the 1973 season the Tiger franchise crashed and burned. For the next 4 seasons the team finished hopelessly below .500 as management began systematically purging the great players from their late 60's / early 70's teams and integrating youngsters. 1978 saw the franchise return to respectability. With an influx of a core of young players, which included a keystone combo (Alan Trammell & Lou Whitaker) that would stick together for close to 2 decades, the Tigers were on their way. Steady hand Ralph Houk oversaw the transition from the dying embers of a contender through the rebuilding process. Detroit finished the season in 4th place with a 86-76 record. After a fast start the young guns of Motown led the AL east by 1 game 2/3 of the way through May. With Boston heating up the young Detroit team settled into a consistent pace that saw them fall 16 1/2 games out by late July. Boston cooled off and the rest of the AL East did not quit. The Tigers stayed competitive and as late as September 13th they were only 9 games out of first. By season end the Tigers finished 13 games back, but their fans returned to Michigan and Trumbull and their team of the future was starting to really take shape.<br />
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<b>What worked:</b> The Tigers led the league in OBP and came in 2nd in batting average, which translated to 5th in runs scored. Apparently the youngsters could get on base, but could not drive in the big run when needed. Their #1 draft pick that season, Kirk Gibson, would take care of that problem once he arrived in Motown in a few seasons. Pinch hitters John Wockenfuss and Phil Mankowski were both clutch and great part time fill in's. Lone holdover from their '68 Championship team, Mickey Stanley, even managed to hit .265 and come through in the clutch. Whitaker and Trammell were stars right from the beginning. You don't usually see this much polish in a pair of 20 year olds. 35 year old John Hiller had a great year as the team's closer. Houk got over 200 innings out of his 4 main starters.<br />
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<b>What didn't work:</b> The pitching staff was about average when compared to the rest of the league. Other than Hiller (9-4, 2.34, 15sv) the bullpen was like kerosene on a fire. The starting rotation did not have a true ace, unless you count 23 year old Jack Morris (3-5, 4.33), who was just learning his way through the league. Jim Slaton (17-12, 4.12) and Jack Billingham (15-8, 3.88) were stop gap solutions. Neither guy had #1 guy stuff and both relied on the offense scoring bushels of runs to be competitive. Injuries plagued 3rd year phenom Mark "the Bird" Fidrych for the 2nd straight season. If healthy, "the bird" was counted upon to be the ace of this staff. He only managed to appear in 3 games and won both of his decisions. No telling how far they go if he pitches close to his 1976 form.<br />
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In total I added 18 new cards for the '78 Tigers.<br />
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"Tram" finished 4th in the ROY voting at the conclusion of the '78 season. His keystone partner Lou Whitaker, won the award hands down. The 20 year old Trammell played a fantastic shortstop and hit .268. If Barry Larkin is in the HOF, this guy should be right next to him. In a 20 year career he would hit .285 as a 6 time All-Star and 4 time Gold Glove winner. In 1987 he virtually carried the Tigers yet lost out to George Bell for the MVP even though his team won the division by beating Bell's Blue Jays 6 out of 8 times over the final week. He spent his full career with the franchise and never let his ego get in his way as he took a diminished role over the final 3 years of his career as he stuck around to tutor the next generation of Tiger youngsters. If Al Kaline was Mr. Tiger for the 1950's-60's generation, Trammell is Mr. Tiger for the 70's-80's group. Pictured here is his mid season 1978 Burger King card, which was obviously taken during spring training.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84dT3IU1v3uyQLwZXI9dxkNFXKb18W7ej7nyEXbYAbV2XRPHNfWk1ZoOzjEE9jVBSu4iGoJDUDr0zU6AjeWiG4WUmV07yd2ywy4T3i_JppR_eo96CR_DZasIJ47si7vokfCeWltMuiTU/s1600/Bob_Sykes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84dT3IU1v3uyQLwZXI9dxkNFXKb18W7ej7nyEXbYAbV2XRPHNfWk1ZoOzjEE9jVBSu4iGoJDUDr0zU6AjeWiG4WUmV07yd2ywy4T3i_JppR_eo96CR_DZasIJ47si7vokfCeWltMuiTU/s320/Bob_Sykes.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
For most people Bob Sykes is a little known footnote in the annals of one sided MLB trades (the Yankees traded Willie McGee straight up for him). For some in Detroit and in St. Louis he conjures up memories of a lefty hurler with much promise, who became a victim of arm trouble. What Sykes really is is a hometown hero, who entered law enforcement late in life (age 50), who helps youths in his adopted hometown of Evansville, IN. You can read the full story by <a href="http://www.waynewhitecoop.com/system/images/BobSykesDec06.pdf">clicking here</a>. Sykes' program works with kids from the time they are in Pre-K, so that they get to know each other and there is a healthy respect from both sides. During the '78 season he compiled a 6-6, 3.94 record while splitting time between the rotation and the pen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga2aD1_Nnmr2upUkAkfwlQUYmWfY3kZkhWhWbx5rSXZneuUwqJ7oSsnu4oMJ3lzKwMCPXjDXQ-9T_7pJhl5eoaUUO3rkTkRuQqo4oSHLu4uq9C-P83FKnB2FGRVqIAY1PElhXPQ3_IvS4/s1600/Bruce_Taylor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga2aD1_Nnmr2upUkAkfwlQUYmWfY3kZkhWhWbx5rSXZneuUwqJ7oSsnu4oMJ3lzKwMCPXjDXQ-9T_7pJhl5eoaUUO3rkTkRuQqo4oSHLu4uq9C-P83FKnB2FGRVqIAY1PElhXPQ3_IvS4/s320/Bruce_Taylor.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Taylor pitching 1 inning in just 1 game for the 1978 Tigers following a decent start in 1977 (1-0, 3.38). He spent 41 games in AAA Evansville and compiled a 4-7, 4.57 record working solely out of the pen. 1979 would be his final season in professional baseball splitting time between Evansville and the parent club. His 1-2, 4.82 record in 10 games with Detroit prompted the team to give his his release. For a guy with such a short / unsuccessful major league tenure I was able to find more than a few autographed photos of him on the web, including this one.<br />
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Spikes was one of those "can't miss" prospects that came out of the Yankee farm system during the early 70's, when most of them "did miss". New York traded him to Cleveland for Graig Nettles, who actually was a "can't miss" and the rest in Cleveland lore is history. Spikes had 2 solid seasons, but blew out his knee and had discipline issues with Frank Robinson, who took over as Cleveland manager in 1975. In 1978 he played in 10 games in Detroit and hit .250. He spent most of the season languishing in Triple A (Evansville), where he was accused of loafing. Bobby Cox, his former minor league manager in the Yankee chain, resurrected his career by bringing him to Atlanta where he did a great job as a pinch hitter for two seasons. He moved on to play 1 season in the Japanese league before hanging up his spikes (all puns intended). I found this autographed photo on ebay, which shocked me since he only had a 10 game tenure in Motown.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4e6Uh3NFN6oB7aqCddfEeOcXuQGqzfrbq5ly9BgVmNJY9Wx4-8M_kF_lqg94L2LaVShyphenhyphenqY_zAu1NBGMz4Yglj2cBYOFbRcls705GuRE3JHtcvyzC0tEInJtkFYTDdLbGva-Rxt4Islh8/s1600/Dave_Stegman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4e6Uh3NFN6oB7aqCddfEeOcXuQGqzfrbq5ly9BgVmNJY9Wx4-8M_kF_lqg94L2LaVShyphenhyphenqY_zAu1NBGMz4Yglj2cBYOFbRcls705GuRE3JHtcvyzC0tEInJtkFYTDdLbGva-Rxt4Islh8/s320/Dave_Stegman.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Stegman played for Evansville for most of 1978, batting .264 . This earned him a promotion to Detroit when rosters expanded in September. In his MLB debut, Stegman appeared in 8 games, batting 14 times with 4 hits. In the next-to-last game of the season, Stegman hit his first major league home run on September 30 against the Baltimore Orioles. The 1979 season looked a lot like 1978 for Stegman, as he spent the entire season with the Triplets, getting called up in September. This time, Stegman got more of a chance, appearing in 12 games with 33 at bats. Although he hit just .194, he did hit three home runs among his six hits. In 1980, Stegman made the Tigers out of spring training. Serving as a reserve outfielder, he batted just .181 through August 6 before being set back to Evansville. He returned in September, but went just 2-for-14 down the stretch. After the season, he was traded to the San Diego Padres for relief pitcher Dennis Kinney.<br />
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Tobik made his Major League debut on August 26, 1978, giving up three earned runs in a 9-5 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers. In 5 games with Detroit in 1978 he posted a 3.75 ERA, but did not have a decision For 4 seasons he bounced back and forth between AAA Evansville and Detroit until he developed a forkball in 1982, which elevated him to closer status. Manager Sparky Anderson was shocked that Tobik turned the corner, so to speak, and because he doubted it the franchise dealt him during the following spring training to Texas for Johnny Grubb. Tobik had two average seasons in Texas and 1 sub par year in Seattle before leaving baseball. Grubb went on to be a key left handed bat for the 1984 Detroit championship team.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnjZCo7GTVS44m30Nqm_jqLW6LIhzrAJzlPfCNX6GfVpx-AthABpo4UFZU2uRBqIsD3d6ir25rPdVVCDXcOJjZ5BHkzJUkjgLqGyvpq-6cUzh5jbiY2hr-LVhQzRmguuc9eZabj192II/s1600/Ed_Glynn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnjZCo7GTVS44m30Nqm_jqLW6LIhzrAJzlPfCNX6GfVpx-AthABpo4UFZU2uRBqIsD3d6ir25rPdVVCDXcOJjZ5BHkzJUkjgLqGyvpq-6cUzh5jbiY2hr-LVhQzRmguuc9eZabj192II/s320/Ed_Glynn.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Glynn spent 4 seasons (1975-78) shuttling between AAA Evansville and Detroit. As a Tiger in 1978 he pitched exclusively out of the bullpen in 10 games. He posted a 3.07 ERA and did not have a decision in 14 innings of work. He was dealt to his hometown Mets during the following spring training. His time with the Mets would last 2 seasons. Next up would be 4 years spent shuttling between Cleveland and their AAA affiliate Charlestown. Glynn kept on plugging away in the miors until he was 34, when he gave up baseball. He returned briefly in 1990, at the age of 37 for a 1 game shot at Tidewater (AAA-NYM). I found this photo doing a Google search.<br />
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Cactus Jack Billingham was the anchor of the Big Red Machine's pitching staff from 1972-1977. After a sub par '77 season he was traded to the Tigers for two minor leaguers who never amounted to much. In 1978 he was 15-8, 3.88 and in 1979 he was even better (10-7, 3.30). Age caught up to him fast and by 1980 he bottomed out and retired. His original 1978 card pictures him in a Reds uniform. This is his 1978 mid season Burger King card. The picture was taken during spring training after he came over to Detroit.<br />
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Arguably the best big game pitcher of his era, Morris was a 23 year old rookie who went 3-5, 4.33 for the Tigers during the '78 season. It didn't take him too long to learn the league or his craft. The following season (1979) he won 17 games and was well on his way to being the Tigers ace. Morris is credited with being the winning-est pitcher during the 1980's. The only knock on him was that he would pitch to the level of his competition, which inflated his ERA. This might be one of the few reasons why he has been kept out of the HOF. His 1978 card had him on one of those rookie panel cards with 3 other pitchers. This card comes directly from the 1978 Burger King set issued mid season.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGa_8qOVo8odgcLQLaEpzvq7o9YBkupIoWC3sSPExaa1MuEtxaZnaA1AKCEik-7RUCKUFtC71mXIrOlwOuVTL8Fd92Gvig_gBmtTG18x3Gzp9Abvl2g2c6Fsyn9fN0wr9HCnHTXHSGbM/s1600/Jim_Crawford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGa_8qOVo8odgcLQLaEpzvq7o9YBkupIoWC3sSPExaa1MuEtxaZnaA1AKCEik-7RUCKUFtC71mXIrOlwOuVTL8Fd92Gvig_gBmtTG18x3Gzp9Abvl2g2c6Fsyn9fN0wr9HCnHTXHSGbM/s320/Jim_Crawford.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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By 1978 "Catfish" Crawford was in his put up or shut up year. After bouncing between AAA and the majors this 27 year old lefty was returning for his 3rd and final season in Detroit. Crawford appeared in 20 games in 1978 and logged 39 innings with a 2-3, 4.35 record. He was sent down to Triple A (Evansville), where hie was 1-3, 7.50, then given his release. This photo was taken from his 77 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4o3b5LroGrbpG6iPHZ1Pz1T7y-yhUwuXEMCjS28-zXaj0uyjh_BxXtYFJ_LXaDvXoQBjGCwp4B9rCtbumZHUaDYXPi0jNuDPuLbTsK07oz5iXLooyRzYJpHFGdNHn-xr3dzzcfDWfB2k/s1600/Jim_Slaton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4o3b5LroGrbpG6iPHZ1Pz1T7y-yhUwuXEMCjS28-zXaj0uyjh_BxXtYFJ_LXaDvXoQBjGCwp4B9rCtbumZHUaDYXPi0jNuDPuLbTsK07oz5iXLooyRzYJpHFGdNHn-xr3dzzcfDWfB2k/s320/Jim_Slaton.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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Slaton pitched just 1 season in Detroit (1978), which he sandwiched around his two extensive tours of duty in Milwaukee. After 7 successful seasons in Milwaukee, where he was their staff workhorse he was traded to the Tigers for slugger Ben Oglivie. Slaton won 17 games for the Tigers in '78, but he had a high ERA (4.12), so he was allowed to test the free agent markets. Slaton went right back to Milwaukee and this time served as the staff's 5th starter / long reliever for 5 seasons. He wound up back in Detroit in 1986 and retired after playing 22 games. His 151-158 record doesn't do justice to a man who pitched his heart out for some really bad second division Brewer clubs. His 1978 card pictures him as a Brewer. This card comes directly from the 1978 Burger King set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HfWZzLCNoRobj7OLpLccZNftI-mX0TQcmME7PWRRb6OUYLPENCfke3O3Ii_324x979ALQ7UJr5xONxmXcm0Dt1e7yqP7C0uyEEjVoRY_YmbkEv9JNykia7jLTt_DoIo61M8FEfumFAA/s1600/Kip_Young.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HfWZzLCNoRobj7OLpLccZNftI-mX0TQcmME7PWRRb6OUYLPENCfke3O3Ii_324x979ALQ7UJr5xONxmXcm0Dt1e7yqP7C0uyEEjVoRY_YmbkEv9JNykia7jLTt_DoIo61M8FEfumFAA/s320/Kip_Young.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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In less than two years, Young was inserted into the Tigers' rotation after the 1978 All Star break and immediately reeled off four consecutive complete game victories. He showed tremendous promise as the 1978 season came to an end, as he won six games, posted a 2.81 ERA and had seven complete games. It appeared that Young was an excellent candidate for the Tigers starting rotation in 1979. However, inclement weather in the first month of the year allowed only two appearances and Young struggled with his control. He was sent to Triple-A Evansville to get some work in and when he returned, Sparky Anderson was named new manager of the Tigers. Young was unable to find a spot on the Tigers pitching staff and struggled as both starter and reliever. It would prove to be the final campaign of Young's brief, two year career. He would pitch at the minor league level for two more years before finally calling it a career. (This synopsis was furnished by <a href="http://1980toppsbaseball.blogspot.com/2010/02/251-kip-young.html">1980ToppsBaseball blog</a>). The photo comes from a Google search<br />
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Parrish became the cornerstone of the Tiger franchise during the late 70's and through the mid 80's. He was the top ranked catcher in the AL both offensively and defensively. Manager Sparky Anderson thought he was "too bulky", because he was one of the early proponents on lifting weights. During his 10 year stay in Detroit he was a 6 time All-Star and 4 time Gold Glove winner. In 1978 he hit just .219, but he did power 14 homers in less than 300 at bats. After the 1986 season the Tigers deemed him expendable due to th emergence of Matt Nokes behind the plate. He signed with Philadelphia and made 2 more All-Star teams. During his 10 years in Detroit he hit 212 of his 324 homers.<br />
<b>Interesting Tidbit:</b> He was the last cut by the 1993 Dodgers, who elected to keep this prospect named Mike Piazza.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQf7QQVwU_qMZhzGjDVpr7NOxVvJkxI7EoCWEet86vt8fQCRt_Bns9QygFLmCZZGDxaT5ebTDaPJ_7YTa5gv4tF95F_udb-A3N0BmMZH7aGFrdS6EgiDvWrL8L3IyD1FiQ_sjUiA16kz0/s1600/Lou_Whitaker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQf7QQVwU_qMZhzGjDVpr7NOxVvJkxI7EoCWEet86vt8fQCRt_Bns9QygFLmCZZGDxaT5ebTDaPJ_7YTa5gv4tF95F_udb-A3N0BmMZH7aGFrdS6EgiDvWrL8L3IyD1FiQ_sjUiA16kz0/s320/Lou_Whitaker.jpg" width="228" /></a><br />
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Whitaker, the 1978 AL ROY, was all that he was advertised to be. Compare his lifetime numbers to Joe Morgan's and tell me why he is not in the HOF ? I can't answer that question. During the '78 season this 21 year old rookie hit .285 and was rock solid in the field. For the next 17 seasons he never led up and actually hit .293 in his final season. During his career he was a 5 time All-Star, 4 time Silver Slugger and 3 time Gold Glover. How only 3% of the voters chose him for Cooperstown is mind boggling. This card comes from his 1978 Burger King card.</div>
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Wagner spent 3 seasons backing up Whitaker and Trammell and hoping to get some sort of break. He was 4 years older than both and a light years worth of skill behind them. In '78 he got into 39 games and hit .239. The following season he hit .274 in 75 games backing up the infield. By 1980 his playing time and his average dipped into the .230's and he was moved along to Texas. Wagner lasted as a utility man until 1984, where he finished up his career in 1984 for Oakland hitting .230. During that season he actually got to pitch 1 2/3 scoreless innings vs his old Tiger teammates. A couple of subpar seasons in Triple AA later signaled his exit from baseball. At the age of 43 he made a 2 game comeback with Cincy's Double A affiliate Chattanooga, where he went 1 for 4. This photo came from his '82 Donruss card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4N_rqNIKDf1M7dQTDTTZSImgHztesSbFnZp0fCKui5r867fODvPCxhFiCltxXD9Ce8noBLf1bOu-CGQjnp9y4-wJaWQSwWIdR1DSeWjqSUwurEAKwiZx4CI2HWBn5HjlXa13JF6JGtU/s1600/Sheldon_Burnside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4N_rqNIKDf1M7dQTDTTZSImgHztesSbFnZp0fCKui5r867fODvPCxhFiCltxXD9Ce8noBLf1bOu-CGQjnp9y4-wJaWQSwWIdR1DSeWjqSUwurEAKwiZx4CI2HWBn5HjlXa13JF6JGtU/s320/Sheldon_Burnside.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Burnside debuted on September 4, 1978 with the Tigers against the New York Yankees. His debut was rough and he posted a 0.1 IP, 3 H, 0 SO, 2 BB, 4 ER line for the night. On October 25, 1979 he was traded by the Tigers to the Reds for Champ Summers. His last appearance was in 1980 for Cincinnati. Burnside was one inning away from never even advancing out of A ball. <a href="http://voices.yahoo.com/the-day-former-detroit-tiger-sheldon-burnsides-became-1808411.html">Click here</a> to read an interesting article on what turned his minor league career around. I found this B&W photo, while doing a Google search and colorized it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSo7ukloaMb2r1akZtWJdh8QiQQXZViueegQd8Na3nJBjN9S__qZMTClJo7Vfml5KfS-bbMxSARYyXyN4oYWySQIEkvEdtQBo8-lk40JEdk_zeZq9ihmpH8u1SmcCoKwvk-Mba_b6I7XA/s1600/Steve_Baker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSo7ukloaMb2r1akZtWJdh8QiQQXZViueegQd8Na3nJBjN9S__qZMTClJo7Vfml5KfS-bbMxSARYyXyN4oYWySQIEkvEdtQBo8-lk40JEdk_zeZq9ihmpH8u1SmcCoKwvk-Mba_b6I7XA/s320/Steve_Baker.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
After spending part of the 1978 season in the minor leagues, Baker made his major league debut on May 25, 1978. In a contest against the Baltimore Orioles, he pitched 6⅓ innings, striking out six and allowing one earned run as the Tigers lost to the Orioles, 2–1. Baker made 15 appearances for the Tigers, starting ten games, earning two wins, four losses, and an ERA of 4.55. Baker also made 16 appearances for the Evansville Triplets, the AAA-level minor league affiliate of the Tigers. In those appearances, Baker made 16 starts, won eight, lost one, threw four complete games, three shutouts, and earned an ERA of 3.21. Baker began the 1979 season as a part of the Tigers' rotation as a spot starter. He played 21 games, starting 12 of them. After posting a 1–7 record and a 6.64 ERA, he was sent back to Evansville. After spending nine games with Evansville in 1980, he was purchased by the Toronto Blue Jays on June 6, 1980. I colorized this B&W photo and superimposed it on a Tiger Stadium background.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3WW0qKtyDhtQ6gZm8t2BxzgrG5N_M4XyKaxIt-t6l-9jxJq6ZpreED7q6MbaoBR-qQuRD81TJnvzmoVX2GS_wzo2Q0h1yykI_7I8NaQNoAtwYleVMb9ymIgEGxzQdW0H9BCuziRb4sc/s1600/Steve_Dillard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3WW0qKtyDhtQ6gZm8t2BxzgrG5N_M4XyKaxIt-t6l-9jxJq6ZpreED7q6MbaoBR-qQuRD81TJnvzmoVX2GS_wzo2Q0h1yykI_7I8NaQNoAtwYleVMb9ymIgEGxzQdW0H9BCuziRb4sc/s320/Steve_Dillard.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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After 3 seasons in Boston as a utility man Dillard was sent to Detroit in exchange for two minor league prospects. For his new team, he provided solid support for young infielders Lou Whitaker (2B) and Alan Trammell (SS). He played in 56 games, but hit just .223. During the 1979 spring training he was moved by Detroit to the Chicago Cubs, spending three seasons with them. His most productive season came in his first year at Chicago, when he hit a career-high .283 batting average with five home runs and 31 runs in 89 games played. The following season he posted career-numbers in games (100), hits (55), doubles and RBI (27). This is his 1978 Burger King mid season update card.<br />
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-75219373583313077262012-12-26T12:00:00.001-08:002012-12-26T12:00:50.258-08:00Pale HoseThe South Side Hit Men were no more. Just a 1 year experiment by the enterprising Bill Veeck was disbanded by this new phenomenon of the 1970's called Free Agency. Veeck's idea was to collect as many long ball threats as possible who had expiring contracts and let them hit homers in hopes of netting a huge free agent deal. In the process the Chisox contended for the AL West flag and kept the South Side fans enthralled. In contrast the '78 edition of the Pale Hose had one 20 homer man (Eric Soderholm) and a bunch of singles hitters. Jorge Orta and Chet Lemon (13 homers each) were the only others to eclipse double digits. Lemon, who played a mean centerfield, was the only regular to hit .300, which he did on the nose. Chicago had a superb bench. The top 6 guys off the bench hit over .260. Wayne Nordhagen, who played practically every spot, hit .301 in 206 at bats. The Chisox were 10th in the league in runs scored, which didn't bode well for a team who's pitching staff finished 12th out of 14 teams. Not one starter had an ERA under 4.00. Veteran knuckleball ace, Wilbur Wood, hit the skids. After years of being the staff ace in both innings and 20 win seasons Wood posted a meager 10-10, 5.20 season. If the starter managed to hold up, the pen would find a way to blow it. Twin closers Lerrin LaGrow and Jim Willoughby each had high ERA's a a penchant for blowing late inning leads. Seldom used Mike Proly (5-2, 2.74) was the only reliever to post a sub 3.00 ERA. Still there was a glimmer of hope with a pair of 19 year old on the horizon in Steve "Rainbow" Trout and Britt Burns. Both saw very limited action, but would become the future of the franchise. 1978 was a rebuilding year as the Pale Hose finished 71-90, 20.5 games behind the division winning Royals.<br />
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In total I created 25 new cards for the White Sox, which up to this point is the most that I had to create for any one team for this project.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI2bMfq4QqD2b7xmjfDNcIPGheIreOiEYHeVsW6yoLkXjSk5oOUlq5ffULvQQTJgIVdgwzZg3p2urF9i99IBK5xaO_-CzAzaULj6FITxXNug-uQBFnc-7rB7znFR4K42g57h9djs51pGk/s1600/Bill_Nahorodny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI2bMfq4QqD2b7xmjfDNcIPGheIreOiEYHeVsW6yoLkXjSk5oOUlq5ffULvQQTJgIVdgwzZg3p2urF9i99IBK5xaO_-CzAzaULj6FITxXNug-uQBFnc-7rB7znFR4K42g57h9djs51pGk/s320/Bill_Nahorodny.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
On September 8, 1977 the Chisox selected Nahorodny off waivers from the Philadelphia Phillies. For a small cash investment they got their starting catcher for the next 2 seasons. Nahorodny hit just .236 in '78, but he did catch 107 games for a team that needed help behind the plate. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJBU8I1xuUIXcoE42xC1fqM1vrkzTE3nuMZb6Gs7ilv67jG8ikDknfkRyQeeWxPr2b5pA-DMTchlh1Tmu3cDPvoBKumnQrPEr6vdCBSaSJMJBqj_Jd3Rc3n6KK9Z1_wvZGG1d-s2NXLY/s1600/Bob_Molinaro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJBU8I1xuUIXcoE42xC1fqM1vrkzTE3nuMZb6Gs7ilv67jG8ikDknfkRyQeeWxPr2b5pA-DMTchlh1Tmu3cDPvoBKumnQrPEr6vdCBSaSJMJBqj_Jd3Rc3n6KK9Z1_wvZGG1d-s2NXLY/s320/Bob_Molinaro.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Molinaro was selected off waivers by the Chicago White Sox from the Detroit Tigers He would see action in just four games for the White Sox in 1977. Molinaro returned to the majors for a full season with the White Sox in 1978, before heading back to the minor leagues for the 1979 season, which saw him play for the American Association's Iowa Oaks. Molinaro did have another brief stay in the major leagues in 1979 when he played eight games for the Baltimore Orioles. Once again, he was back in a White Sox uniform, and playing full-time for them in 1980 and in 81.<br />
After two years with the Chicago White Sox, Bob Molinaro was sent by the Chicago White Sox to the Chicago Cubs on March 29, 1982 to complete an earlier deal. In '78 he played all 3 outfield positions and hit .262. The photo here is his 1980 supersize card photo<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CIpRiU_lm0foW5R6Fow-_IpzEuFvTOZ8_Sja_T9lTNozK7YSODgG4jwrNG2xrzgORb_mGzfxNZtTrYC8Py5TrfYh8QSKhPuIy3DBSQ8fNklpfyNqlWHFoFD_AvZbdk6gdqCPwzRNQoM/s1600/Bobby_Bonds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CIpRiU_lm0foW5R6Fow-_IpzEuFvTOZ8_Sja_T9lTNozK7YSODgG4jwrNG2xrzgORb_mGzfxNZtTrYC8Py5TrfYh8QSKhPuIy3DBSQ8fNklpfyNqlWHFoFD_AvZbdk6gdqCPwzRNQoM/s320/Bobby_Bonds.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
Bonds just looks a bit warn out and a lot troubled when he took this photo. Maybe he was just told that he was traded for the 5th time in 5 years. Who knows. What we do know is that here before you stands one of the most disrespected 5 tool players in the history of the sport. Bonds, who arrived in an offseason trade was gone just 26 games into the '78 season. Chicago sent him to Texas in exchange for Claudell Washington and Rusty Torres. He managed to hit a respectable .278 with 2 homers in his short stint on the South side. I found this whole card on the <a href="http://whitesoxcards.blogspot.com/2010/05/cards-that-never-were-26.html">Whitesoxcards Blogspot</a> site.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFV9whnQG0D0aEQKnpEgzbDWB2XbM3gE29vNb6vLYa8h84DkPdVZQy31OEYpXp3qtzs74Ltp2hYfE2jO2xkJsADFaclZKMmpCUlnCb6egklS5EqlYmfZhi9bJcDVtTcsAU-ylS6qkFn0/s1600/Britt_Burns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFV9whnQG0D0aEQKnpEgzbDWB2XbM3gE29vNb6vLYa8h84DkPdVZQy31OEYpXp3qtzs74Ltp2hYfE2jO2xkJsADFaclZKMmpCUlnCb6egklS5EqlYmfZhi9bJcDVtTcsAU-ylS6qkFn0/s320/Britt_Burns.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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19 year old Britt Burns was drafted in 1978 by the Chisox in the third round of the amateur draft. He was given 2 starts and performed just like an over matched teenager. He would spend the better part of the next 2 seasons learning his craft in the minors before his 15-13, 2.84 rookie season in 1980, where he finished 5th in the ROY voting. Burns would win in double digits for the Chisox in 5 of the next 6 seasons before developing serious arm trouble. He was traded to the Yankees before the start of the 1986 season, but was damaged goods. Besides arm issues he also developed hip problems, which forced him to retire at the tender age of 26. In 1990 he attempted a comeback in the Yankee farm system, but that ended when he appeared to be a shell of his former self. This photo came from his supersized 1980 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvCiC3zy_OkXrZ7Mu38j0aWLu2CUxWpncMB6Hj0xsyhtdSlvXPX0zjA0S4bLL9xCq9ScwIwyd1bh1l-RRcRViB_Tn4tbX1y8X3qksBBhPPcLVJCPToXwDLXvvkoxTSdVnzig1IN1nmvE/s1600/Claudell_Washington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvCiC3zy_OkXrZ7Mu38j0aWLu2CUxWpncMB6Hj0xsyhtdSlvXPX0zjA0S4bLL9xCq9ScwIwyd1bh1l-RRcRViB_Tn4tbX1y8X3qksBBhPPcLVJCPToXwDLXvvkoxTSdVnzig1IN1nmvE/s320/Claudell_Washington.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Washington, who arrived in the early season Bonds trade, struggled heavily in 1978. He was hitting just .167 with Texas befor the trade and hit just .264 the rest of the way in Chitown. Curiously he did not steal many bases (5) for the White Sox that season even though he had stolen 40, 37 and 21 in the 3 previous seasons. Washington, who was rushed to the majors by the A's at the tender age of 19, never fully developed into the player that he was expected to be. He had flashes of power and speed, but never put it all together in a 20/20 or 30/30 type season that he was expected to have. His best season (1975) occurred when he was a 20 year old playing for the Oakland A's. He posted career highs in average (.308) and stolen bases (40). He would go on to play for 7 franchises during his 17 year career. <b> Interesting Tidbit:</b> A foul ball that he hit on 6/15/85 at Wrigley was featured in Ferris Buheler's day off. Ferris caught the ball. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5YaIVwJAGURdti9418FRwKw6_coJt_S0kMQZL0u3sWktvV9zvt5szXKUPlo18fifcOiPvWhBrHkmPwE8wtdmR_s_vTr8L_xFwqjKYCcGxP01ese3m65LiI7dwHGTTaWnzNqDcon6Eyig/s1600/Greg_Pryor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5YaIVwJAGURdti9418FRwKw6_coJt_S0kMQZL0u3sWktvV9zvt5szXKUPlo18fifcOiPvWhBrHkmPwE8wtdmR_s_vTr8L_xFwqjKYCcGxP01ese3m65LiI7dwHGTTaWnzNqDcon6Eyig/s320/Greg_Pryor.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Pryor's claim to fame is that he was the last draft pick ever by the Washington Senators to play in the majors. Since the Sen's moved to Texas, he never played in Washington. Pryor finally made the majors for good as a 28 year old rookie in 1978, where he played every position in the infield and hit .261 in 222 at bats. Pryor acquitted himself quite well as a utility man with a functional bat for 4 seasons in Chicago, before moving to KC for the final 5 years of his career. In KC he won a World Championship in 1985. I used Pryor's Donruss card photo for this updated '78 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-Dvo0rnx0X3U2fRLQ16L3GIARetcS8kTq4VezxdzB52V5QUDdAl0UcBSyvEGrhyphenhyphenICVIWQWnSTIXJG7HPJbJoWWvMPjFE1p2klpxrV8yi5YkSfpi0DIYicbgwsNt6fAjzcCVfpODVfV4/s1600/Harry_Chappas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-Dvo0rnx0X3U2fRLQ16L3GIARetcS8kTq4VezxdzB52V5QUDdAl0UcBSyvEGrhyphenhyphenICVIWQWnSTIXJG7HPJbJoWWvMPjFE1p2klpxrV8yi5YkSfpi0DIYicbgwsNt6fAjzcCVfpODVfV4/s320/Harry_Chappas.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Chappas, who measured 5' 3" was another Bill Veeck favorite who wound up being exploited as only Mr. Veeck could do. Obviously not as short as the midget Eddie Gaedel, but still useful for publicity Chappas appeared in just 27 games for the '78 Chisox and hit .267. The following season he was featured on a Spring Training Sports Illustrated cover photo (used here for this card). Veeck got about as much mileage as he could from Chappas, who won the starting shortstop job in Spring Training, but eventually lost it due to performance 2 weeks into the season.<br />
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Kucek spent 5 seasons splitting time between the Chisox and their AAA affiliates. The most time he spent with the Sox was in 1978, where he appeared in 10 games and started 5. 3 of those 5 starts wound up as complete games. Kucek logged 52 innings and finished the year with a 2-3, 3.29 record. He was traded to Philly midway through the following season and finished his career in 1980 at the age of 27, while with Toronto. Kucek's 1979 card photo appears here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRABmumatFqB0UV5eli1DI3eEPyO1eJgReqCTbWi4HKpmJAa1zScdDv_XyYZmUJNWQcOod6cJLEIaZlakZXMIQNw1vAPBaPCEyOh09xp42yERQYqohfoVAYZ1n-jt4n9vavqF1EVCQzuU/s1600/Jim_Breazeale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRABmumatFqB0UV5eli1DI3eEPyO1eJgReqCTbWi4HKpmJAa1zScdDv_XyYZmUJNWQcOod6cJLEIaZlakZXMIQNw1vAPBaPCEyOh09xp42yERQYqohfoVAYZ1n-jt4n9vavqF1EVCQzuU/s320/Jim_Breazeale.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Breazeale played four seasons in the Major Leagues, three with the Braves (1969; 1971–1972), and one for the Chicago White Sox (1978). In his MLB career, Breazeale played 89 games with 179 at bats and 40 hits. He had three home runs, 33 RBIs, 20 runs, and a .223 batting average. He played his final game on July 19, 1978 with the White Sox. Known for his huge horn rimmed glasses, Breazeale hit .208 with 3 homers in 72 at bats for the South Siders during his brief stay there. He was a rule 5 draft pick from the Braves organization. Rather than release him after the '78 season the White Sox made him player manager of their Appleton (A ball) affiliate, where he hit .305 in 1979 and managed the team. This B&W phot required heavy colorization and customization. I then superimposed it on a Comiskey background.<br />
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During his 8 year career Willoughby played for the Giants (1971-74), Red Sox (1975-77) and finally the White Sox (1978). During the '78 season he posted a 1-6, 3.86 recore with 13 saves in 93 innings. At the end of the season he was traded to the Cardinals for John Scott, but never played another game in the majors. The Cubs picked him up as a free agent and assigned him to their AAA affiliate (Wichita). After a poor half season in Wichita he was cut and picked up by Portland (AAA-PIT) and in 24 games he went 3-2, 2.85, but never received a call up. He was released at the end of the '79 season. I used his '79 card photo, which was taken during the '78 season at Yankee Stadium.<br />
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Gates played parts of two seasons in the majors for the Chicago White Sox. His only extra base hit was a triple on May 13, 1979 against the Kansas City Royals. He had come on as a pinch hitter for Don Kessinger and stayed in the game and played second base. The pitcher for the Royals was Eduardo Rodriguez. The hit drove in Greg Pryor in the bottom of the 9th. The final score of the game was Royals 14, White Sox 5. After his major league career, he entered the coaching ranks, where he coached many teams over the course of a 30 year period until his untimely death at the age of 55. This card was created off a B&W photo that I colorized, then added the SOX logo on his batting helmet and pasted on a 1978 White Sox jersey picture that I found while doing a Google search.<br />
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Named Larry Doby Johnson, after the first African American to play in the American League. Johnson appeared in just 12 major league games in 5 partial seasons for 3 different franchises (Cleveland, Montreal and Chicago). He hit .125 (1-8) in his short tenure on the South side. Johnson spent over 15 seasons as a minor league catcher and had a lifetime .266 average in MiLB.<br />
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<b>Interesting Tidbit:</b> Larry Doby himself was a coach on all 3 teams that Johnson played. He was released 5 weeks prior to Doby being named White Sox manager. This photo comes from his minor league card, while at Rochester. I had to airbrush out the team logo on the jersey and change the colors to be consistent with White Sox blue. I added the SOX cap logo. Not many photos of Johnson are available.<br />
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In April 1976, the Tigers sold LaGrow to the St. Louis Cardinals. LaGrow pitched in 8 games for the Cardinals with a 1.48 earned run average. During 1977 and 1978, LaGrow moved to Chicago and became their ace reliever. He appeared in a career high 66 games for the White Sox in 1977 and another 52 in 1978. In 1977, he had 25 saves for the White Sox, third best in the American League. He was also among the league leaders in saves in 1978 with 16. This is his original '78 card, which for some reason wasn't part of my original packet, so I wound up including it here.<br />
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<b>Interesting Tidbit:</b> In the 1972 ALCS, while pitching for Detroit, he threw at Bert Campaneris and hit him in the ankle, which set off a team brawl and got both players suspended for the rest of the series.<br />
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After the 1978 Triple-A season ended, Foley was given his first taste of major league action. He made his debut on September 11, 1978 against the Minnesota Twins. He pinch-hit for starting catcher Mike Colbern in the 9th inning, grounding out against pitcher Mike Marshall. He played in a total of 11 games that season, batting .353 in 34 at bats. Over the next 2 seasons Foley saw his playing time increase and his batting average decrease. He spent all of 1981 and 1983, and most of 1982 in the minors. 1984 saw him play in 63 games as a Texas Ranger, but that was his final taste of the biggs. I found this great close up photo of the Chicago White Sox Cards blog.<br />
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Colbern saw action in 48 games for the Pale Hose during the '78 season. He hit .270 (38-141) with 2 homers and 20 RBI's. The following season he slumped to .241 and was send down to Iowa (AAA), where he was only slightly better (.246). 1981 was a hard year for Colbern. He hit .264 during the first half of the season, but did not get called up due to the MLB Players Strike. Instead he was traded to Atlanta's Richmond AAA affiliate where he hit .150. Instead of being promoted to the majors he wound up demoted to AA Savannah. He hit just .235 and was given his release.<br />
<b>Interesting Tidbit:</b> He was part of a class action suit by former major leaguer's who didn't qualify for the player's pension fund. They claimed that they were entitled to a pension just like Negro League players, who played sparingly in the majors. They did not win their case.<br />
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In two major league seasons, Eden posted a .080 batting average (2-for-25) and scored a run in 15 games. He hit .269 (251-for-932) in 266 minor league games, including 16 home runs, 114 RBI, and a .363 on-base percentage. In 1978 he appeared in 10 games as a utility player and hit .118 (2-17). In 106 games at Iowa (AAA-CHW) during the '78 season he hit .274 (113-412) and hit his minor league career high in homers (7). After the season concluded he was released by the Chisox and picked up by Baltimore, where he was assigned to Rochester (AAA). He played 2 non-descript seasons in Rochester before being released. I found this photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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Proly finally got a chance to be a full time major leaguer by the Sox in 1978 after spending most of the previous 6 seasons in the Cardinal chain. Proly received a battlefield promotion from Iowa after impressing the parent club by going 6-2, 2.59 in 22 games. His magic continued on the major league level. In 14 games (6 starts) he went 5-2, 2.74. The following 2 seasons saw him have limited success as both a long reliever and spot starter for the White Sox. After a disappointing 1980 he moved on to Philly and played 1 season there + 2 additional seasons with the crosstown rival Cubs before being optioned back to the minors. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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Squires was a great glove man who just didn't hit for enough power to become the team's regular first baseman. His 6 homers in 10 big league seasons can attest to that. After 5 seasons in the Chisox minor league chain he was given a chance in 1978 to play for the big club. he hit .312 in 115 games at Iowa (AAA) during the '78 seasons. He hit .280 in 150 at bats for the parent club once he was called up from Iowa. Squires would play all 10 of his major league seasons in Chicago for the White Sox. this autographed photo was found on ebay.<br />
<b>Interesting Tidbits:</b> In 1984, the lefty throwing Squires, played 13 errorless games at third base. In 1981, his only season as a full time starter, he won the Gold Glove Award at first base.<br />
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Torrealba bounced around the Braves farm system for 8 seasons getting to finally play with the big club in 1976. His contract was sold to the A's at the conclusion of Spring Training and he proceeded to have a phenomenal '77 season in Oakland. Almost a year to the day that he moved to Oakland, he was dealt to the Chisox for Jim Essian and Steve Renko. Oakland got the better end of the deal as Torrealba went 2-4, 4.71 in 25 games. Midway through the '79 campaign he was sent to the minors then released. I used his '79 card photo.<br />
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Hinton was the epitome of the journeyman righhander who had AAAA stuff and bounced around from team to team. The White Sox must have really taken a liking to him, because he was acquired by the franchise on 3 separate occasions. Originally drafted by Chicago in 1969 he played 1 season (1971) for them before moving over to the Yankees and Texas. He spent all of 1973 and 1974 in the minors before returning the Chisox for 15 games in 1975. 1976 saw him earn a ring in Cincinnati, even though he did not add anything productive to the team's accomplishment (1-2, 7.64). A comeback in 1978 saw him return to Chicago for a 3rd tour of duty where he pitched in 29 games (80 innings) and posted a 2-6, 4.02 record. He must have showed the Chisox enough to be invited back in 1979, but after going 1-2, 6.05 in 16 games he was sent to Seattle, where he finished out the year and his career. This photo is one of my favorite. I took a photo fo him on the Yankees and airbrushed the cap and added the SOX logo then superimposed a White Sox jersey over his Yankee threads.<br />
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In 1978, Wortham opened the season in Iowa. However, when starting pitcher Ken Kravec got off to a rough start, he was sent to the minors, and Wortham was called up to replace him. He made his debut on May 3 against the Milwaukee Brewers, and he pitched 6.2 innings and gave up 3 runs in a 4–0 loss. In his next start, he beat the Minnesota Twins, pitching 8 innings and giving up 2 runs on 9 hits. His next outing found him giving up 10 hits in just 4.1 innings, and he was returned to the minors, with Kravec returning to the majors. Wortham spent most of the rest of the season in Iowa, and was recalled in September when the rosters expanded. In five September starts, Wortham went 2–0 with a 2.70 ERA, lowering his overall ERA for the season to 3.02.[3] He also pitched his first two major league complete games. Wortham was seen as a future star. That star would quickly dim in 1979 after he posted a 14-14, 4.90 record. 1980 was even worse, which facillitated him being farmed out.<br />
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While pitching for the White Sox's Appleton minor league club in 1978, Baumgarten was 9–1 with a 1.82 earned run average (ERA) as a starting pitcher, and earned promotion to the White Sox major league club. In limited action (7 games) he went 2-2, 5.87 for the parent club. The following season he started 28 games and did very well (13-8, 3.54). 1980 saw his ERA drop 10 points (3.54), but his record plummeted to 2-12. 1981 saw his record improve modestly (5-9), but his ERA went over the 4.00 mark. On March 21, 1982 he was shipped to Pittsburgh for Vance Law and Ernie Camacho. In 12 games in Steeltown he dropped all five of his decisions to go along with a 6.55 ERA. The Pirates cut him, but he got a last chance with the A's who's complete pitching staff was decimated by Billy Martin. In Tacoma AAA he was just as bad as he was in Pittsburgh the previous year, so he was released. I found this photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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Torres was signed on March 1, 1978 by the Texas Rangers. Torres started 1978 back in the minor leagues for the first time in three years, playing for the Tucson Toros. He got off to a hot start, batting .346 with 7 home runs in just 30 games. On May 16, Rusty was traded again to the Chicago White Sox along with Claudell Washington for, Bobby Bonds. After spending a few months with the minor league Iowa Oaks, Torres earned another shot at the majors in September. In 16 games down the stretch, Torres managed to hit at a .316 clip in 44 at bats. He was with the Chisox again in '79, but hit just .253 and left for KC via free agency in 1980. I used an autographed photo found on ebay.<br />
<b>Interesting Tidbit:</b> Torres played a pivotal part in MLB's 3 forefits during the 1970's. 1st as a Yankee during the Senators final game in 1971, then as an Indian on 10 cent beer night in 1974 and final as a White Sock during Disco Demolition night on July 12, 1979.<br />
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Trout was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the first round of the 1976 draft. He played three years in the minor leagues before joining the White Sox and pitching in his first big league game on July 1, 1978 against the Minnesota Twins. In 3 starts (4 total games) he went 3-0, 4.03 for the '78 Pale Hose. As a 21 year old rookie he went 11-8, 3.89 in 1979. He would remain on the Southside until 1983, when he headed north to Wrigley to play the Cubs for 5 seasons. Trout never reached the potential that the pundits forecasted for him. He did cobble together a 12 year career as one of baseball's dizziest lefties. I found this great autographed action shot via Google search.<br />
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Bosley was traded in the off-season to the White Sox with Richard Dotson and Bobby Bonds. He remained with the White Sox organization for three years and later played for the Milwaukee Brewers, Seattle Mariners, and Chicago Cubs, distinguishing himself as one the best pinch hitters in the majors. During the 1985 season, Bosley hit .328 and was voted the best pinch hitter in baseball. During the '78 season he hit .269 in over 200 at bats. Throughout his career he was a solid clutch performer, who didn't have enough pop to play as a regular corner outfielder.<br />
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Spencer managed three teams to their respective league minor league championships: the Asheville Tourists (1984), Geneva Cubs (1987), and Charlotte Knights (1997). His major league playing career consisted of 29 games with the Chisox in 1978. In 65 at bats he hit .185. He played all 3 outfield spots. During his 12 minor league seasons as a player he was a solid .272 hitter who never displayed much power. In 1974, while with Cincy's Indianpolis AAA affilite he hit 14 homers, which was the only time he posted double figures in his career. He spent most of '78 at Knoxville (AA-CHW) and hit .331 in 81 games before being recalled to Chicago. i took this B&W photo and colorized his jersey and cap.<br />
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-1927215473038828982012-12-25T10:19:00.002-08:002012-12-25T10:19:35.779-08:00The TribeWelcome to the 1980's baseball version of Siberia. Someone once said, "Pennant Fever" in Cleveland last approximately 48 hours". Some baseball pundits believed it didn't even last that long. By 1978 The Tribe was entrenched in a streak of finishing below .500 for 15 of the previous 20 seasons. That's a record of futility only since past by the Pirates (circa 1993-2012). A 1970's Cleveland Indians team was usually comprised of players on their way up (and probably out via trade) and those on their last legs. Sprinkle that in with some fringe major leaguers and career minor leaguers and you have 48 hours of pennant fever. This team finished 66-90 and stayed out of last place thanks to the generosity of the second year expansion Jays. 28 year old 1B-DH Andre Thornton, who bounced around the NL and was getting his final chance made the most of it leading the team with 33 homers and 105 RBI's and being well on his way to becoming a forgotten Tribe legend of this era. No one else eclipsed the 20 homer mark. Newly acquired Gary Alexander hit 17 and Johnny Grubb had 14. The rest of the team barely found the warning track. Shockingly the Tribe finished 8th (middle of the road) in homers hit, despite being quite top heavy with 3 guys carrying most of the load. Jim Norris (.283) was the closest this team came to a .300 hitter.<br />
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To their credit though, the team did bat .262 and most of the lineup, except Alexander, hovered close to that average. The bench was solid. Not a lot of pop, but they were all capable of getting a big hit if by miracle the team was in a close one. The pitching was close to awful. Rick Waits (13-15, 3.20) and Mike Paxton (12-11, 3.86) were the only starters with ERA's below 4.00. Waits had a fantastic year, which also included 15 complete games and 2 shutouts, but more often than not his offense couldn't score for him. The key here is to get to the pen, which was the real strength of this team. Jim Kern (10-10, 3.08, 13sv) was the closer. Paul Reuschel (2-4, 3.11), Sid Monge (4-3, 2.76, 6sv) and Dan Spillner (3-1, 3.67, 3sv) did a fantastic job setting up Kern. The challenge will be: can Cleveland hold a lead into the late innings and hand it off to the pen ?<br />
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To round out the "missing Indians" cards I added 20 new 1978 Cards that required various degrees of work. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CqXcARaCG6S1p4Hx2VkDnmo2qE75PyuylRXw-_QxFT7asFWCxJZJLv5qvlur92flVttmIn64BVbAXHRxIvyxfgQc8J5Tv3ESIXeQojgXtscCRUSkfzTWOu5J3IrGfU9r3NhocBlBofg/s1600/Alfredo_Griffin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CqXcARaCG6S1p4Hx2VkDnmo2qE75PyuylRXw-_QxFT7asFWCxJZJLv5qvlur92flVttmIn64BVbAXHRxIvyxfgQc8J5Tv3ESIXeQojgXtscCRUSkfzTWOu5J3IrGfU9r3NhocBlBofg/s320/Alfredo_Griffin.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
20 year old Griffin hit an amazing .500 for the Tribe. Unfortunately that came in just 4 at bats. 1978 would mark the final cup of coffee with the Tribe for this slick fielding / switch hitting shortstop who would go on to win the 1979 ROY Award in Toronto. On December 5, 1978 the Tribe would make another one of their bonehead trades by sending Griffin to Toronto for Victor "not the Salsa dancing WR" Cruz. This card was a fun one to make. I took an early B&W photo of Griffin and colorized it along with adding the "C" on the cap. I then superimposed it on a background of Municipal Stadium.<br />
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One thing Bernie Carbo could do was hit. Unfortunately for him and the 6 franchises that he played for during his 12 seasons, he took more bong hits than bat hits. Carbo spent just 60 games in Cleveland during the '78 season, splitting time with Boston. He hit a respectable .287 with 4 homers in 174 at bats as the team's DH after arriving on June 15th. At the end of the season he was given his free agency as he slipped further and further into the abyss called drug abuse. He will forever be remembered for that huge World Series Homer that he hit in 1975 during that historic game 6. I used an autographed photo found on ebay for this card.<br />
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Bo was another tragic figure. Tragically he died at the young age of 37 while adjusting a satellite dish on his roof. He played 13 big league seasons and was a 2 time All-Star. In 1978 he caught 44 games for the Tribe and hit just .236. Limited success for him over the next two seasons was followed by a breakout year in 1981, where he hit .313 and was the AL-All Star catcher. At the conclusion of the season the Tribe once again dipped into their bad trade bag of tricks and packaged him in a 3 team deal that netted Silvio Martinez and a beat up Lary Sorensen. Diaz went on to have a fine career in Philly and Cincy. I used his '79 Card photo for this card.<br />
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Briggs hit just .163 in 15 games with the Tribe during the '78 campaign. The Tribe wisely dumped him on the Padres, who used him in '79 as a utility man who hit .207 in 227 AB's. After spending all of 1980 in the minors he would get two final cups of coffee in 1981 (Montreal) and in 1982 (Cubs) before realizing that a career .195 hitting utility player doesn't have too many major league options. I used his '79 card here.<br />
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Spillner arrived from San Diego mid season in a deal for Dennis Kinney. Score this deal as one of the few "wins" for the Tribe. For the next 6 1/2 seasons he would serve whatever roll their staff needed. His best season (1982) was as the team's long man / closer. He went 12-10, 2.49 with 21 saves. At the age of 32 after a 4-3, 3.44 season out of the pen in Chicago he wasn't offered a contract by anyone, so he retired. A strange sequence of events showed that he was a victim of baseball's "Collusion" of the mid 80's and later award a cash settlement of almost $450,000. If you want to read a great "Where are they now" article about him from SeattlePI, <a href="http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Catching-up-with-Dan-Spillner-1123839.php">click here</a>. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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Former #1 pick of the Texas Rangers, Clyde was damaged goods when he arrived on Lake Erie. In 1976 his arm troubles began. Traded to the Cleveland Indians in 1978,
he was 8-11 and then 3-4 before he damaged a rotator cuff. He was out of baseball at the age of 24 in 1980 having never fulfilled the promise of being a phenom. Clyde was purely a victim of poor ownership (Bob Short) and poor management (Billy Martin) in Texas. The NY Times wrote an interesting piece on him 10 years ago. You can read it by <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/22/sports/sports-of-the-times-the-mismanaged-career-of-david-clyde.html">clicking here</a>. I found this photo on ebay.<br />
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Kinney was selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 10th round of the 1970 Major League Baseball Draft, and he played in their organization through his major league debut in 1978. He was given a chance at closing games for the Indians, notching five saves in 18 games. That June, however, he was traded to the San Diego Padres for pitcher Dan Spillner. Kinney's one full season in the majors came in 1980 for the Padres. That year, he pitched in 50 games as a reliever, compiling a 4–6 record with a 4.25 ERA and one save. In December, he was traded to the Detroit Tigers for outfielder Dave Stegman, but appeared in just six games for the Tigers before being released in the offseason. After a brief trial with the Oakland Athletics in 1982, his major league career was over. I did some airbrushing and cut/pasting on this minor league card photo.<br />
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Alexander arrived in a trade with the A's on June 15th for Joe Wallis. At the time many thought the Tribe finally swindled someone else in a trade. With his combined numbers Alexander came in 9th in the AL in homers (27), but he also led the league with an alarming 166 strikeouts. Still, he was a catcher with power, and how can you go wrong with that ? If you are Cleveland, you could find a way to go wrong with anything. It turned out that Alexander was a huge defensive liability behind the dish leading the league in errors. He was eventually replaced by Ron Hassey mid way through the following season. He was relegated to the DH role, but hit just .225 with no power and was eventually replaced by rookie phenom Joe Charboneau in 1980. I found this photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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No one had a more appropriate name than Horace Speed. This man could flat out run. Known throughout his short career as a pinch runner / 5th outfielder, Speed saw extended action in '78 for the Tribe. His .226 average was not overly impressive. His 4 "caught stealing" in 6 attempts was even more alarming for a man who made his living with his legs. 1979 saw him hit just .143 in 26 games before being farmed out for good. I found this rare photo of him on the OOTP board.<br />
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Lintz is a MLB record holder. I bet most folks, including myself, didn't know that. Apparently he holds the record for most steals in a season (31) for a player who didn't actually record a hit (0). An amazing obscure record set in 1976 as a member of the Oakland A's, who were trying to put together one final run before owner Charlie Finley dismantled his team. Lintz had some moderate success as a speedy middle infielder for the post-expansion Expos in the early 70's. By the time he got to Oakland he was purely a specialty player. By 1978 he found himself playing in Portland, which was Cleveland's AAA affiliate. The Indians called him up for a few games where he served as a pinch runner. No know photos of him could be found in an Indian uni. I took his 1975 SSPC card photo, as a St. Louis Cardinal, and pasted the CLEVELAND jersey logo on it. No hat was needed, because there is no reason to cover up a cool 'fro like his !<br />
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Paxton arrived in the offseason as part of the Eckersley deal. He had an above average (12-11, 3.86) first season in Cleveland and fans were just about to forget "the Eck", but unfortunately he bottomed out in 1979 (8-8, 5.92) and then disappeared for good after a forgettable 1980 (0-0, 12.91).<br />
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Vail was a big time rookie who burst on the scene in 1975 with the Mets. He immediately set the rookie consecutive game hitting streak record (23 games). Based on his limited body of work in September the Mets anointed him their "Player of the Future" and traded fan favorite Rusty Staub to Detroit. Vail rewarded the Met brass by breaking his foot in the off season while playing basketball. The injury robbed him of whatever speed he had and he was never the player they thought he'd become. His stock fell so much the Tribe claimed him off of waivers at the end of Spring Training in March of 1978. In just 14 games on Lake Erie he hit .235 and was sent to the Cubs for Joe Wallis at the June 15th Trade deadline. I took this Cubs photo and added an Indian jersey, red rim on his cap and a "C" logo.<br />
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It's not hard to spend your life pitching in the large shadow of your brother, especially when your younger brother was larger than life (figuratively and literally) Rick Reuschel. Paul, who looked more like an accountant than a major league hurler, was traded by the Cubs to Cleveland midway through the '78 season. He responded with a respectable year out of the pen. 1979 proved to be a horrendous year for him (2-1, 7.94) and he was subsequently released. I used his '79 card photo.<br />
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I doctored up a B&W Red Sox photo of Kreuger and added the appropriate logos and trim, then superimposed it on a background of the "Mistake by the Lake". At 29 he was all out of options and was released by the Tribe.<br />
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Rick Wise won 188 games in a solid 18 year career in the big leagues, yet we will all remember him as the guy that was traded for Steve Carlton. At the time, 1972 most pundits though of Carlton as being slightly better than Wise, but definitely on a par with him. Looking at their numbers after 1972 it is easy to see who got the better of the trade. Wise had some realy good years in Boston, culminating in his 19 win sesaon of 1975. By the time he got to Cleveland his skills were beginning to errode. 1978 saw him lose 19 games for the Tribe, which also led the league in futility. He rebounded nicely in 1979 (15-10, 3.73), but that turned out to be his final season as a front line starter. After the '79 season the Tribe let him become a free agent, which turned out to be the correct move since he had 3 sub par years in San Diego. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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Hassey was a 25 year old rookie for the Tribe in '78. He hit just .203 with 2 homers in 74 at bats. The following season would see him become part of the lefty/righty platoon behind the plate with Bo Diaz. He responded favorably by hitting .287. His best season in Cleveland was 1980, where he hit .318 with 8 homers in 390 AB's. In total he would spend 7 above average seasons with the Indians. He had some solid seasons up in the Bronx and on the South Side of Chicago before moving on to Oakland and playing on 3 pennant winners as the lefty part of their catching platoon. I found this great autographed action shot on ebay.<br />
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Cox turned out to be one of your run of the mill banjo hitting utility players. In 82 games in '78 he played 5 positions and hit just .233 in 227 AB's. He pretty much duplicated those numbers in '79 before being traded to Seattle for Bud Anderson. After one carbon copy season in Seattle he moved on to Toronto, where he hit .300 in just 50 AB's and was never heard from again as he was banished to the Mexican Leagues.<br />
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Veryzer batted .271 with one home run and 32 RBIs in part tie action during the '78 season. His most memorable moment of the season may have come on September 13 when he drove in the winning run of the Indians' 2-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox with a successful suicide squeeze bunt, knocking the Red Sox out of first place. He would spend 4 seasons as the Indians starting shortstop before moving over to the Mets. I found this photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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In 1971 Cage was drafted by the Cleveland Indians. Although Cage was with the Indians organization until 1981, he only played in the major leagues in 1978 and 1979, when he had batting averages of .245 and .232. He was traded to the Seattle Mariners in 1981 for Rod Craig, although he would not play in the major leagues with Seattle. Instead, a week after the trade, Cage's contract was sold to the Hankyu Braves of the Japanese Pacific League. He played for the Braves for two seasons, 1981 and 1982.<br />
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Horton, who split the '78 season with 3 horrible teams, started the year as the Tribe's starting DH. In 50 games he hit just .249 with only 5 homers, before being moved to Oakland. His stay in Cleveland was quite short and definitely not all that sweet. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-38489898171824417832012-12-25T08:41:00.003-08:002012-12-25T08:41:29.218-08:00Merry Christmas to All...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry Christmas to all of my ARAIG friends. Expect to see a few updates today in the 1978 Card Project. I hope you and yours are having a wonderful holiday season. Special thanks to my elves (Erik & Chad) for supplying Cards and Photos to help with the project.ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-66500671321493180812012-12-19T20:41:00.000-08:002012-12-19T20:41:58.887-08:00Help yourself to some Twin-kies<br />
By late July the Twins fell behind by double digits in the AL West and never recovered. A typical underachieving/underwhelming Gene Mach team finished 16 games under .500 and 19 games behind the division winning Royals.<br />
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<b>What they did right:</b> The Twins led the league in OBP, which was a stat that wasn't valued by many in baseball circles during the 70's. They finished 4th in Batting average.<br />
<b>WHat they did wrong:</b> They were dead last in homers and middle of the pack in runs scored. Due to their lack of power the Twins stranded a lot of runners. Their pitching staff was also nothing to write home about either. That staff was ranked 10th in ERA in the AL.<br />
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<b>Indidvidual highlights:</b> Rod Carew won his 7th (and final) batting title in what would be his final season in Minnesota. Carew hit .333, which was actually 55 points lower than his near .400 average of a year before. With the lack of power behind him in the order he only scored 85 runs. None of the regulars in the lineup hit close to .300. Part time DH Jose Morales hit .314, but he only had 242 at bats. The Twins did have a strong bench. They just didn't have anyone who could hit the long ball. Roy Smalley (19) and Dan Ford (11) were the only players in double digits in this most important power stat. Both also ecliped the 30 mark for doubles, but no one else came that close. Ford actually was in double figured for doubles (36), triples (10) and homers (11).<br />
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Minnesota's top 3 starters all logged over 200 innings and posted .500 or better records. Dave Goltz (15-10, 2.49) had a fantastic season. This team just didn't possess a reliable 4th or 5th starter as Mauch spent the year trying to find one of his 20-something year olds to fit that bill. Veteran Mike Marshall saved 21 games and pitched 99 innings in 54 appearances. He posted a 10-12, 2.45 record. Greg Thayyer and John Sutton were marginal at best in supporting Marshall. The rest of the pen was a crapshoot at best.<br />
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Thanks to a great post card set issued by the team for 1978 and 1979 I was able to collect a lot of good photos for these updated cards. 12 of the 16 updated cards posted here were created from that postcard set.<br />
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In 1977, Jackson was drafted by the Twins in the 9th round of the amateur draft. He made his professional debut in 1978 for the Orlando Twins of the Southern League, and in his very first start he threw nine innings of no-hit ball against the Jacksonville Suns. Unfortunately, the game was tied after nine innings, and Jackson was relieved by fellow future Twin Jeff Holly. Orlando won the game, 1–0, in 12 innings. After just 10 starts in the minors, Jackson was called up to the Twins in June. In 19 games, Jackson went 4–6 with a 4.48 ERA. He did record one shutout in 1978, on July 7 against the Oakland Athletics. Jackson split 1979 between the Twins and their Triple-A farm club, the Toledo Mud Hens. In the majors, he pitched in 24 games (including 8 starts), going 4–4 with a 4.28 ERA. 1980 was Jackson's first (and, as it turned out, only) full season in the majors. He set career bests in wins (9), ERA (3.87), and strikeouts (90). Jackson spent most of 1981 on the sidelines with a shoulder injury, appearing in just 14 games in the majors and 2 at Triple-A. In 1982, the bottom fell out of Jackson's performance, as he went 0–5 and his ERA jumped to a career-worst 6.25. Things were no better in the minors, as he went 1–3 with an even worse ERA of 7.00 in 4 starts. On July 26, the Twins released Jackson, and he never again pitched in organized baseball.<br />
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Dave and his two brothers, Mike and Marshall, all played MLB during the same era. None of the Edwards boys were top tier performers. Dave made his major league debut in 1979 hitting .250 (11-44) in 15 games for the Twins. The next two seasons would see him play in more than half the team's games as their 4th outfielder and hit the same .250. On 12/8/1980 he was dealt to the Padres for Chuck Baker and slumped below .220 during his 2 seasons in SoCAL. He would move on to play 2 seasons in the Mexican league before hanging it up in 1985.<br />
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Serum played two and half season at the major league level for the Minnesota Twins. He was signed by the Twins as an amateur free agent in 1975. He played his last professional season with the New York Yankees' Double-A Nashville Sounds and Triple-A Columbus Clippers in 1982. In 1978 the 21 year old swingman appeared in 34 games (23 starts) for the Twins. He posted an even 9-9, 4.10 record, while logging 184 innings. 1979 saw his career fall into an abyss with his record plummeting to 1-3, 6.61 in 20 games (64 innings).<br />
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This 28 year old career minor leaguer go this one shot in the majors with the Twins in 1978. A 1-1, 3.80 record in 45 innings worth of work was not able to save him from a return trip to the farm, which is surprising because Minnesota had many pitcher put up worse numbers than his. He would split the next two seasons between Toledo (AAA-MIN) and Syracuse (AAA-TOR) before being released.<br />
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Twins’ 1st-round pick in the 1975 amateur secondary draft, and he patrolled right field for Minnesota from 1978-1981. Powell was then traded to the Blue Jays for Greg Wells. In 1978 He hit .247 with 3 homers in 121 games. 1979 would be his best year average wise (.293), but he still lacked the power required of a corner outfielder. His numbers would slip in '80 and '81, which facilitated the trade with Toronto.<br />
<b>Fun Fact:</b> His college roommate was Orioles manager Buck Showalter.<br />
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Starting in 1977 Holly spent parts of 3 seasons in the Twins pen. His '77 season was downright horrible (2-3, 6.89), but he rebounded nicely in 1978 (1-2, 3.57). 1979 saw him drop below his paltry '77 standards, so he was dealt to Detroit for Fernando Arroyo, but never played again in the majors.<br />
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On December 5, 1977 Sutton was drafted by the Minnesota Twins from the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1977 rule 5 draft. Sutton had a decent 14 games for the Cards in '77 going 2-1, 2.59 out of the pen. The Twin used him 17 times in '78 and in 44 innings of work he did not have a decision, but did have a respectable 3.45 ERA. Apparently a lot of the outs that he recorded were of the hard hit variety, because he was sent back to the minors then released. He bounced between 4 other organizations before giving up on baseball. 1978 would be his last major league opportunity. This was created using his '79 card.<br />
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After Minnesota acquired Morales, he became an effective part-time designated hitter and his pinch-hitting skills remained intact. In 1978 he hit .314 for the Twins and posted an American League leading with 15 pinch-hits. Morales faded the next season (.267), but he rebounded in 1980 hitting .303 with eight home runs (a career-high) as his 13 pinch-hits again led league. At one time he held the major league record for most pinch hits in a single season. Because he was such a liability behind the plate people would joke and say he was "a catcher by trade". Morales spent 8 years in the minors before getting his shot. Presently he is 8th on the All-Time pinch hit list with 123 in his career.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIzTm19GgnNgDNfoOPmTI0jdkcckwuphQQFgj5DbryLrU4JyEQ4Srz0dDaFnJw_jtB-3bf6YSye_ZTrKWOx0otFZZhdGYpE1cbPIL7hnnjRX6Q6wCS-6xcvWoAOxcCxACr3WqcSMVrdg/s1600/Larry_Wolfe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIzTm19GgnNgDNfoOPmTI0jdkcckwuphQQFgj5DbryLrU4JyEQ4Srz0dDaFnJw_jtB-3bf6YSye_ZTrKWOx0otFZZhdGYpE1cbPIL7hnnjRX6Q6wCS-6xcvWoAOxcCxACr3WqcSMVrdg/s320/Larry_Wolfe.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
From 1973 to 1977 Wolfe played in the minor leagues on Twins affiliate teams, making his debut with the Twins in September 1977. After spending the full 1978 season with the Minnesota Twins, he was traded to the Boston Red Sox for Dave Coleman. He spent the 1979 and 1980 seasons with the Boston Red Sox. In 1981, Wolfe returned to the minor leagues and played for the Indianapolis Indians, then an affiliate for the Cincinnati Reds. In 1982, Wolfe played in Japan for the Kintetsu Buffaloes. During the '78 season Wolfe hit .234 (55-235), knocked in 25 runs and had very little power for a corner infielder (10 doubles and 3 homers).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hzpA2eBTEwH1BgafjFbE8FUiAtZoYDAP3cyuD-69rGpDcl_oBXYWDS5tkR-1qAOgastBIlgEtjPMWmN4_gFZSKQ5vtoKMA0lphr7nRg5d3Optsw20fEYgcUx4FM9Gr1XFPiE673aoTk/s1600/Mac_Scarce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hzpA2eBTEwH1BgafjFbE8FUiAtZoYDAP3cyuD-69rGpDcl_oBXYWDS5tkR-1qAOgastBIlgEtjPMWmN4_gFZSKQ5vtoKMA0lphr7nRg5d3Optsw20fEYgcUx4FM9Gr1XFPiE673aoTk/s320/Mac_Scarce.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
After spending the past 3 seasons in the minors Scarce got what looked to be his last chance at a major league career. In 17 games for the Twins in '78 he would go 1-1, 3.94 and operate solely out of the pen. He was released by the Twins after the season and never played in pro ball again. This card was created by using an autographed photo supplied by "the elves"<br />
<b>Interesting tidbit:</b> In 1975 he faced 1 batter the whole season as a Met and gave up a walk off single.<br />
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Marshall ranks right up there in baseball as one of the game's most interesting characters. If you have time, you can read the interesting interview he gave <a href="http://twinstrivia.com/interview-archives/dr-mike-marshall/">TwinsTrivia</a>. Marshall has invented a new more stress free way to pitch that the mainstream has had trouble adapting. He claims that it will keep pitchers injury free. Marshall bounced around from team to team due to the fact that he was union activist and not due to his pitching performance. The 1974 Cy Young Award winner led he league in appearances (106) and innings pitched in relief (208). During his interview he said his two best years were 1978-79 with the Twins. During that span he finished in the top 10 for Cy Young voting twice. In '78 he posted a 10-12, 2.45, 21sv record in 99 innings or relief work.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAD9_f_4RHJaQX2HdJ5V-ovxa8aLE6-zKc2SyfRs5Q1Is036D3ux5UYNxpXA51CHv91LDeN6MokGJhhJQCT4OOyY9jdMEDIMO5t2qpYaVSJErWmTU5zYBZU-djg2PSs40xYstHp08ujw/s1600/Rob_Wilfong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAD9_f_4RHJaQX2HdJ5V-ovxa8aLE6-zKc2SyfRs5Q1Is036D3ux5UYNxpXA51CHv91LDeN6MokGJhhJQCT4OOyY9jdMEDIMO5t2qpYaVSJErWmTU5zYBZU-djg2PSs40xYstHp08ujw/s320/Rob_Wilfong.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Wilfong started his pro career with the Twins organization. He made his major league debut in 1977 and was with the Twins until a trade sent him to the Angels in 1982. He helped the Angels win the American League Western Division in 1982 and 1986. He finished his career in 1987, playing two games for the San Francisco Giants. Wilfong played 92 games at 2nd base during the '78 season and hit .266. '79 would be his breakout season, where he hit .313 in 140 games. After hitting just .160 to start the 1982 season he was dealt with Doug Corbett to the California Angels for Tom Brunansky, Mike Walters and $400,000. <br />
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Erickson was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the 3rd round of the 1977 amateur draft and made his major league debut on April 6, 1978, pitching 6.1 innings and earning the win in a 5-4 victory over the Seattle Mariners. He finished his rookie season (1978) with 14 wins and a .519 winning percentage, second highest on the pitching staff. Much was expected of him after his breakout rookie season, but apparently the 265 innings that he posted put way too much strain on his 21 year old body. Over the next 5 seasons he struggled for consistency and to log innings. Midway through the '82 season he was dealt to the Yankees along with catcher Butch Wynegar for a package of spare parts. After a season and a half of sub par baseball in the Bronx he was sent down to Columbus (AAA), where he was horrible (9-7, 6.04). He spent all of '84 in Evansville (AAA-DET) and quit baseball for 2 years. He pitched 29 games in A ball in '87 then took off all of '88. Finally he gave it one last go with 27 games at Louisville (AAA-STL) before hanging it up.<br />
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Harrison was a marginal major league talent at best who had a breakout rookie season with Baltimore in 1972 (3-4, 2.30, 4sv). The Braves traded for him and in 2 1/2 years as a front-line starter never posted an ERA below 4.00. Midway through the '75 season he was dealt to Cleveland where his numbers stayed the same. For the next 3 seasons he would toil at the Triple A level with mediocre results before being called up to Minnesota. His 9 game showcase at Metropolitan Stadium consisted of 12 innings out of the pen where he went 0-1, 7.50 and was finally released. The "elves" sent me this weird headshot of him off a white background that I superimposed over a photo of old MET stadium.<br />
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This career minor leaguer had two cups of coffee with the White Sox (1971 & 1974) and two with the Rangers (1975 & 1978). He had moderate success in '75 where he went 3-3, 3.00 in 8 starts. By 1978 he was a 27 year old getting his final chance. In 13 games (7 starts) he complied a 2-7, 5.24 record. On February 13, 1979 the Twins released him. He resigned with them in the spring and pitched 4 games at Toledo (AAA) before being released outright. I used his minor league photo from his 1977 stint a Salt Lake City (AAA-CAL).<br />
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Norwood won the starting left field spot in Spring Training and played in 125 games for the Twins in 1978. He hit just .255 with only 8 homers. The following season his average dipped to .248 and in 1980 it bottomed out at .164, so he was traded to Seattle for future felon Byron McLaughlin.<br />
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-80991804488854974732012-12-18T14:11:00.001-08:002012-12-18T14:11:41.461-08:00No Miracle on 33rd Street<br />
Manager Earl Weaver once again made his cast of characters and platoon players overachieve. Baltimore won 90 games and finished about 7 or 8 better than anticipated. Thanks to the Red Sox great start and the Yankees great finish, the O's were never really in contention.The closest they got to a pennant race was on September 17th when they were 6 1/2 out. The big boys kept on winning and the O's were never able to gain any ground. The disappointment of this season would be erased the following year as this same group really overachieved and won the AL Pennant and took the Pirates to game 7 before folding.<br />
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When you look at the numbers you really get a deep appreciation for the talent of Earl Weaver for getting the most out of his charges. This was a team that finished 10th in batting average and 9th in runs scored, yet the still won 90. Weaver's strategy was always predicated on the 3 run homer, which he must have gotten his fair share of considering his team was ranked 3rd in homers in the AL. 4 guys hit 20 or more homers on this team, but not one player ecliped the .300 mark. Kenny Singleton hit 20 homers and batted .293. He was the closest to the .300 plateau. Second year man Eddie Murray did not suffer from the sophomore jink one bit as he chipped in with 27 roundtrippers and a .285 batting average. Doug DeCinces, who finally escaped from the large shadow of Brooks Robinson had a great year at the hot corner hitting .286 with 28 dingers. As usual the team was strong up the middle with Rick Dempsey behind the plate and the keystone combo of Rich Dauer and Mark Belanger. The bench was decent. Billy Smith and Kiko Garcia backed up the infield and allowed Weaver to pinch hit for Belanger late in games with guys like Terry Crowley and Gary Roenicke.<br />
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Pitching is always the hallmark of Weaver's teams. 32 year old Jim Palmer had his usual HOF caliber season. Palmer, 21-12, 2.46, was the true ace throwing nearly 300 innings and completing 19 games. Weaver's 4 man rotation completed 65 games, which was tops in the league. With Don "Full Pack" Stanhouse closing games out of the pen the starters needed to close the door. Besides Stanhouse, Weaver had little to no other options out of the pen. Joe Kerrigan, Tippy Martinez and Nellie Briles all posted ERA's just below 5.00. John Flinn was even worse with a 8.04 ERA in 13 relief appearances. This completely flawed team most certainly overachieved thanks to Weaver's brilliance.<br />
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13 new cards in total were added to round out the O's 1978 missing card set.<br />
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On December 7, 1977, the Seattle Mariners traded López to the Baltimore Orioles with pitcher Tommy Moore in exchange for pitcher Mike Parrott. In 1978, López spent the entire season with the O's. He batted .238 with 21 runs, 46 hits, six doubles, four home runs, 20 RBIs, five stolen bases, and seven caught stealing in 129 games. López was demoted to the Triple-A Rochester Red Wings in 1979, his final professional season. With the Red Wings, he batted .282 with 38 runs, 66 hits, 10 doubles, two triples, six home runs, 30 RBIs, and 24 stolen bases in 62 games. López led the International League in stolen bases and caught stealing. I found a neat photo of him while doing a Google search. It had a blue screen background, which allowed me to easily cut and paste it on top of a background photo of Memorial Stadium.<br />
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Ford made his major league debut on September 2, 1978 against the Chicago White Sox. He pitched 8⅓ innings, allowed no runs, struck out two, and received the win. He pitched in one more game in 1978 for Baltimore, again not allowing a run, and finished the season with a 1–0 record and an ERA of 0.00. Ford split time between the majors and minors again in 1979, playing in nine major league games and starting two of them. He pitched 30 innings, posted a 2–1 record and had an ERA of 2.10. He became a main part of the roster in 1980, pitching in 25 games, where he pitched nearly 70 innings and had an ERA of 4.26. He played in 15 games the following season, and played in his final major league game on September 9, 1981. Ford continued to play in the minor leagues for a few years, then retired from baseball in 1985. Erik sent me this autographed photo.<br />
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Earl Weaver nicknamed him "Full Pack", because he (Weaver) would smoke a full pack of cigarettes due to Stanhouse's nerve wracking relief performances. Stanhouse saved 24 games for Weaver in 1978, and was truly Baltimore's only reliable choice out of the pen. He would spend 1 more season in Baltimore, almost mirroring his results of 1978, then he signed as a free agent with the Dodgers and developed arm trouble. This photo was also taken with a blue screen background, which enabled me to simply superimpose it on top of a great photo of old MemorialStadium.<br />
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Stephenson, a career minor leaguer, had just 1 sustained shot in the big leagues back in 1972 with the Brewers. During that season he appeared in 35 games and finished 3-5, 3.25, which is pretty credible. Despite pitching just 80 innings he led the league with 7 wild pitches and had control issues. His walk to strikeout ration was an abysmal 1 to 1. He would resurface in the majors in 1977 for 1 game with the O's and again in 1978 for 2 games. He would spend 11 unimpressive seasons in the minors. After hanging it up in 1979 he returned to the Oriole organization as a minor league pitching coach. I colorized this photo, which came from the O's 25 anniversary card set that was issued in B&W.<br />
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Hendricks was one of the most beloved figures in the Baltimore community and considered the franchises "good will ambassador". 1978 marked his third tour of duty with the franchise and a return after spending 2 seasons in New York winning pennants and backing up Thurman Munson. During his prime he was the lefty half of the O's catching platoon splitting time with Andy Etchebarren. By 1978 he was more of a bullpen catcher, who got into 13 games and hit .333 (6-18). He would hang up the "tools of ignorance" after getting into 1 game in 1979 and join the O's coaching staff officially. This photo came from a fans' personal collection taken during Spring Training 1978. It shows Ellie with his usual smile signing autographs for the kids.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxbF7FlgTJU_dVlCJKbaM9SoYjULQw-3ujy2gZL1c4tEkUzGYKhgUIHZdQDn01c2G3VzyB6ThcX0I3lrK3-xro58WTf7agxO5_95bJMVPza6zE_6bqB99KeRYJyM5tOHV52GPbmapKc4/s1600/Gary_Roenicke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxbF7FlgTJU_dVlCJKbaM9SoYjULQw-3ujy2gZL1c4tEkUzGYKhgUIHZdQDn01c2G3VzyB6ThcX0I3lrK3-xro58WTf7agxO5_95bJMVPza6zE_6bqB99KeRYJyM5tOHV52GPbmapKc4/s320/Gary_Roenicke.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
In 1977, Roenicke was traded with Joe Kerrigan and Don Stanhouse to the Baltimore Orioles for Rudy May, Randy Miller, and Bryn Smith. Roenicke appeared in 27 games in his first season with the Orioles in 1978. A year later, in his first full season, he had perhaps the best season of his career, appearing in 133 games and hitting .261 with 25 home runs and 64 runs batted in. He even made the top ten in at-bats per home run, with one home run every 15.0 AB. The next year, he hit .239 with 10 home runs, 28 runs batted in. In 1981 he hit .269, but his power numbers were still significantly down, slugging only .384, whereas he had slugged .508 in his rookie season. In 1982, he hit .270 with a slugging percentage of .499 in 137 games. After 8 seasons in Baltimore he was dealt to the Yankees in 1986 for Rex Hudler. He played 1 year in NY then 2 in Atlanta before hanging it up. This unique photo shows him wearing a facemask on his batting helmet to protect him from further injury.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgEB9STZIgFqx8r1hNybpeWumu7VhRajod9u0QL7AAOt3n1ix3qB_AF_oLVM8tipWTssiBYQHC4_AQ0vbr6amqEx9JUKgFrMHBFvPRIxZ2tdiexzZcO-SEQB79qM8aHkIdXGh48ay6Cw/s1600/Joe_Kerrigan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgEB9STZIgFqx8r1hNybpeWumu7VhRajod9u0QL7AAOt3n1ix3qB_AF_oLVM8tipWTssiBYQHC4_AQ0vbr6amqEx9JUKgFrMHBFvPRIxZ2tdiexzZcO-SEQB79qM8aHkIdXGh48ay6Cw/s320/Joe_Kerrigan.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
As the saying goes, "those who can, do, those who can't coach". Kerrigan was one of those who the latter applied to. After 2 average seasons in Montreal he arrived in Baltimore and had a horrible year out of the pen (3-1, 4.77, 3sv) in 1978. Other than a 2 1/3 inning stint in 1980 he would spend the rest of his days playing in the minors before becoming a well traveled pitching coach. This photo comes straight from his 1979 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7E7p-fale4KTd3ALOeZw8_lcBxFqOiJOtRCJSKnR5rOR8xdc8VzEBfnPK31OL6770JWDWMDBpsvweWQLg_NkBkPx14JLzfGRqUsSj4C-hXB1PwcFjcqLB5yaZeVkBYwHFp8k37EmvQ0/s1600/John_Flinn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7E7p-fale4KTd3ALOeZw8_lcBxFqOiJOtRCJSKnR5rOR8xdc8VzEBfnPK31OL6770JWDWMDBpsvweWQLg_NkBkPx14JLzfGRqUsSj4C-hXB1PwcFjcqLB5yaZeVkBYwHFp8k37EmvQ0/s320/John_Flinn.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Flinn pitched in all or part of four seasons between 1978 and 1982. He had two separate stints with the Baltimore Orioles, the first in 1978-1979, and the second in 1982, in between which he pitched for the Milwaukee Brewers in 1980. His 8.04 ERA in 15 games in '78 would destine him back to the minors. I partially colorized this B&W photo that I found while searching Google.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7ksTzNeLrb6Z-PXmNRGPVTELjUQl65VV9qgBhw_-xtiaY4dBfCZTwwgFcC0csatMRPPnEiwlCpjGFEEkjJpm2WVf2zN6BTpeZxhPlufcoyhHRBH3l-4p5eKnZXgGGxui_6XSbuMBSnA/s1600/Mike_Anderson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7ksTzNeLrb6Z-PXmNRGPVTELjUQl65VV9qgBhw_-xtiaY4dBfCZTwwgFcC0csatMRPPnEiwlCpjGFEEkjJpm2WVf2zN6BTpeZxhPlufcoyhHRBH3l-4p5eKnZXgGGxui_6XSbuMBSnA/s320/Mike_Anderson.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
In his one forgettable season in Charm City Anderson hit .094 (no typo) in 32 at bats. He wound up on the scrap heap at the end of the season and found his way back to Philadelphia for his 3rd shot in the city of brotherly love. During his career he was the prototypical 4th outfield. In Baltimore he was more like a 6th outfielder. I found this autographed photo on Amazon, which was taken at Yankee Stadium.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbnz24jhlZz_4bRtmQXDrJLTBq9RELcNcjS-RXniVnOpVa-ux71Etp9nnW12-JElWJRXZ_sB1sL85GOwzRKdpgrXytZJekd_swO2lifAT5qKIm-NpkRfyHF6KFYOOQY-e2xHlctH1evs/s1600/Sammy_Stewart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbnz24jhlZz_4bRtmQXDrJLTBq9RELcNcjS-RXniVnOpVa-ux71Etp9nnW12-JElWJRXZ_sB1sL85GOwzRKdpgrXytZJekd_swO2lifAT5qKIm-NpkRfyHF6KFYOOQY-e2xHlctH1evs/s320/Sammy_Stewart.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
On September 1, 1978, Stewart made his Major League debut for the Orioles, fanning seven consecutive batters en route to a 9–3 win over the Chicago White Sox. In 1981, Stewart led the American League in ERA. Stewart appeared in the 1979 World Series and 1983 World Series as a member of the Orioles. During the '78 season Stewart appeared in just 2 games and had a 1-1, 3.18. He spent 8 seasons in total with the O's and 10 in the majors. His post baseball life has been tragic to say the least. He lost a child to Cystic Fibrosis then spiraled into drug abuse. He is now serving time in jail as a repeat offender. This card is from his 1979 Record Breaker card for the 7 consecutive strikeouts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0GYcHb3LSnuJoNZo1JrTlCtXInAp0bWtcOQq_3we_oAOE2spjMfLzTbECLMKTaGA5-uwKhDTANgkpFPTmWLz3MIemqSpBbIog71F1uo94X6-1tiFg1O2so9ECdVAjhItssKxMkQBByE/s1600/Terry_Crowley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0GYcHb3LSnuJoNZo1JrTlCtXInAp0bWtcOQq_3we_oAOE2spjMfLzTbECLMKTaGA5-uwKhDTANgkpFPTmWLz3MIemqSpBbIog71F1uo94X6-1tiFg1O2so9ECdVAjhItssKxMkQBByE/s320/Terry_Crowley.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Crowley played for the Orioles from 1969–1973 and 1976–1982. He was a backup player that could play the outfield and first base. When the designated hitter rule was implemented, he was the first Oriole to fulfill this role. However, he was best known during his playing career for being a pinch hitter. As of the end of 2008, Crowley's 108 career pinch-hits is still the 13th-most all-time, tied with Denny Walling. In 95 at bats in '78 he hit .253 with 12 key RBI's. This photo came from his '81 Fleer card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGE31CV260avXzEyhy379E3XW61-cZj0VxDNWwKiZyrP1Bheyla4E5UxqtZDplWCCZi9GJEfz97okcb0PByRuiIB_vUAaILJzgLMB_Ax-Mh7jt3gBn5oBM4kvpPPjD-MAnNkpy3JqUJsU/s1600/Tim_Stoddard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGE31CV260avXzEyhy379E3XW61-cZj0VxDNWwKiZyrP1Bheyla4E5UxqtZDplWCCZi9GJEfz97okcb0PByRuiIB_vUAaILJzgLMB_Ax-Mh7jt3gBn5oBM4kvpPPjD-MAnNkpy3JqUJsU/s320/Tim_Stoddard.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
The 6'7" Stoddard's athletic claim to fame was in basketball, not baseball. As a member of the NC State 1974 NCAA championship basketball team he helped dethrone Bill Walton's undefeated UCLA team to win the title. Stoddard saw limited action with the O's in '78 pitching in 8 games and recording an 0-1, 6.00 record in 18 innings of work. He would rebound nicely (all puns intended) in 1979 and go 3-1, 1.71 in 29 games. By 1980 he was a primetime member of the O's pen. After a disastrous 1983 season (4-3, 6.09) he was shipped to the Cubs. He would add stops in San Diego, The Bronx and Cleveland before hanging it up after the 1989 season. I found this great action shot on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7f_nga4RuqcxmoAvIDWv6U1s0_Iri2PfxSxhNPc7lXc4WhvRGZfG2PonQDJAXkknOAFmWBhz_2NjkzBPxAMLinahX5KcKjWiNZAMr-dYK9KGgBQp6PoMWFZql79o-gECm9DvCwym0D5o/s1600/Mike_Dimmel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7f_nga4RuqcxmoAvIDWv6U1s0_Iri2PfxSxhNPc7lXc4WhvRGZfG2PonQDJAXkknOAFmWBhz_2NjkzBPxAMLinahX5KcKjWiNZAMr-dYK9KGgBQp6PoMWFZql79o-gECm9DvCwym0D5o/s320/Mike_Dimmel.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Dimmel drafted by the Baltimore Orioles from the Dodgers in the 1976 Rule V Draft. After two seasons with the Orioles he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals for Benny Ayala. In 1978 he was used exclusively as a pinch runner and defensive replacement. He scored 2 runs and was caught stealing once, but never had an official plate appearance in 8 games. In 25 games the previous season (1977) he holy had 5 at bats, but 8 runs scored. Dimmel would spend 4 seasons in Triple A and hit just .242 lifetime. His final season, 1980 was at Springfield (STL - AAA) where he hit .194. He stole 144 bases in 8 minor league seasons. This photo ws probably taken during spring training and was supplied by an elf named Erik.</div>
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-81867385010690301252012-12-18T06:50:00.002-08:002012-12-18T06:50:39.565-08:00Boston MasacreNot much to write about here that hasn't already been written. We all know the Bosox built up a double digit lead by mid July and then somehow slumped and blew the division to the Yankees. What many people don't know is that they actually rallied from being 3 1/2 down on September 16th to tie up the Yankees on the final day of the season. If this was truly an epic collapse the Red Sox would never have even lived to see the 1 game playoff in Fenway on October 2, 1978. History tells us that they lost 5-4 thanks to Bucky "F-in" Dent hitting a homer into the screen atop the Green Monster. What history hasn't been allowed to tell us is that this team was left for dead after dropping 6 out of 7 to the Yankees in mid September, but somehow their tired regulars fought back.<br />
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Boston's real Achilles was fatigue, not the Yankees. Manager Don Zimmer followed the practice that Leo Durocher followed 9 seasons earlier with his Cubs. He overplayed his regulars to the point of no return. 7 Boston regulars had over 550 at bats. Only the Boomer, George Scott had less than 450 and he had injury issues. When your bench consists of Jack Brohamer and Frank Duffy your in big trouble, because a baseball season is a marathon, not a sprint.<br />
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Tough to poke holes in a team that won 99 regular season games. In most years that's more than enough to make the post season. 25 year old Jim Rice was at the height of his MVP powers smashing 46 homers with 139 RBI's and a .315 average. Centerfielder Freddy Lynn chipped in 22 homers with a .298 average and Dewey Evans had 24 long balls himself. Boston had the most potent outfield in the AL. All 3 were in their mid 20's. Other than Jerry Remy, 30 stolen bases, the team had little base stealing speed. Carlton Fisk caught 157 games and still managed 20 homers and a .284 batting average. The wild card was the old man, Yaz, who hit .277 with 17 homers and 81 RBI's. 1978 would be his last good shot at that illusive ring.<br />
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Typical Red Sox teams hit a ton, but lacked pitching. The '78 Sahx were not typical in that respect. Newly acquired 23 year old ace, Dennis Eckersley, won 20 and lost only 8 with a 2.99 ERA. 37 year old El Tiante' was brilliant (13-8, 3.31). Mike Torrez and Bill "the Spaceman" Lee each rounded out the staff by winning in double figures. Boston lacked a solid 5th starter, but how many teams had one ? The bullpen by committee was led by 2nd year man Bob Stanley (15-2, 2.60, 10sv). Dick Drago had 7 saves and Tom Burgmeier and Bill Campbell each chipped in with 4. This staff was 4th in the AL in ERA, which says a lot considering they pitched in a hitters paradise like Fenway.<br />
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Due to the consistency of the franchise and the fact that Zim didn't really go to his bench that often I only had to create 12 new cards for this project. Full disclosure: I created them a year ago for a KOD season, where we played "Tragic Teams".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi65mDZ-oO89AYacdtcq9D10wnXiAf1OI-YwKY9HuRof03xpsnfdawZ__eN3SJF0eAR-pl3eFn9AR7O-uDyjK5c_P9CLI23eCBinggIcckFDHUtrDp5xGDGSeJfIQwgsE-lQCC_7y2x0Co/s1600/Allen_Ripley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi65mDZ-oO89AYacdtcq9D10wnXiAf1OI-YwKY9HuRof03xpsnfdawZ__eN3SJF0eAR-pl3eFn9AR7O-uDyjK5c_P9CLI23eCBinggIcckFDHUtrDp5xGDGSeJfIQwgsE-lQCC_7y2x0Co/s320/Allen_Ripley.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Ripley spent five and a half years in the Boston minor league system (1973–1978) and averaged 10 wins per season, including a 15–4 record for Triple-A Pawtucket in 1977. He entered the majors in 1978 with the Red Sox, playing for them in parts of two seasons before joining the San Francisco Giants (1980–1981) and Chicago Cubs (1982). His most productive season came with the 1980 Giants, when he had a 9–10 mark with a 3.54 ERA. On April 22, 1978, Cleveland's Andre Thornton hit for the cycle in Fenway Park off four different Red Sox pitchers, with the single coming off Ripley; the triple off Bob Stanley; the home run off Jim Wright, and the double off Tom Burgmeier. I had to colorize the photo that I used for this card, then I superimposed it on a Fenway Park background.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4jaAq0jfXn24gb6WHfD4JvFKj7XCM5NAInC4P6twNx51hrhsIzyBQVt0oQEhpFwBLT7NKc-fks0_bKNN5QoL1za5PxHmLNwy2UQENKL20TNG4XGjgYFrECFmKfqd3CgaFfRkBmLp5BE/s1600/Andy_Hassler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4jaAq0jfXn24gb6WHfD4JvFKj7XCM5NAInC4P6twNx51hrhsIzyBQVt0oQEhpFwBLT7NKc-fks0_bKNN5QoL1za5PxHmLNwy2UQENKL20TNG4XGjgYFrECFmKfqd3CgaFfRkBmLp5BE/s320/Andy_Hassler.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
An interesting tidbit Hassler was never involved in a trade. His contract was purchased several times and he signed as a free agent twice. He pitched two seasons at Fenway (1978-1979). In '78 he posted a respectable 2-1, 3.00 record out of the pen. His 14 year major league career would see him play in 6 different cities. He pitched in the post season 3 times. His final season, 1985, was with the pennant winning Cardinals, but he was left off the post season roster.<br />
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Sprowl is best known for losing two critical games in the 1978 pennant race between the Red Sox and the New York Yankees. Before he was called up to the majors, Sprowl had compiled a 9-3 record in the AA Eastern League. Boston's minor league organization claimed that he "had ice water in his veins," and manager Don Zimmer gave Sprowl three starts late in the season.<br />
His second start was against the New York Yankees. Zimmer passed over veterans Bill "Spaceman" Lee and Luis Tiant, who had dominated the Yankees during their careers. Sprowl allowed 4 walks, one hit and one run in the first inning before being pulled.<br />
Sprowl went 0-2 with a 6.39 earned run average. The following season, he was traded to the Astros. He pitched in 19 games over the next three years, mostly in middle relief. He was sent back to the minors in 1982, and never pitched again in the majors. I found this photo while searching SI archives.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQL6ayjlAUHcxY0zANyP7Yfmk4fhdpukCN6o6Zrj6gg_mvXX7HLFz7BfYOdQyeduYhp2U3cKuVjSg-mYRbL5s-BdLLICPccoMUW1ZxcLOaqlCiYExM-PW2NxvKWbDFjQKxSlNxxUXMVIk/s1600/Dennis_Eckersley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQL6ayjlAUHcxY0zANyP7Yfmk4fhdpukCN6o6Zrj6gg_mvXX7HLFz7BfYOdQyeduYhp2U3cKuVjSg-mYRbL5s-BdLLICPccoMUW1ZxcLOaqlCiYExM-PW2NxvKWbDFjQKxSlNxxUXMVIk/s320/Dennis_Eckersley.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
On March 30, 1978 Eckersley was traded by the Cleveland Indians with Fred Kendall to the Boston Red Sox for Ted Cox, Bo Diaz, Mike Paxton and Rick Wise. In most circles this trade is considered highway robbery. Why would the Tribe dump a 23 year old who was a proven winner for a bunch of prospects and a retread vet ? No one still has a clue. "Eck" responded by winning 20 and having an ERA under 3.00, which earned him 4th in the AL Cy Young balloting. In 8 seasons in Boston he would win 88 games and be viewed as a pretty good pitcher. After bouncing around a bit he found Dave Duncan, Tony LaRussa and the fountain of youth in Oakland and for almost a decade he became the premier reliever in baseball winning pennants left and right. Eck hardly walked a batter and was un-hittable except for a gimpy guy wearing #23 in Dodger blue. This photo came from a fan's Spring Training shots.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iN6fcEIsmVmU043No5VvEJoNQFV2RQxr_EpRJVJI4GzYRkebyNTT07qCcgijDFIc9rjEcVTPJP3OnCIsBRidMs551TO7TibwSoCopu0ke6GhFwTVjh7Whg0AugWbL-NN69BsOJXWEsQ/s1600/Frank_Duffy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iN6fcEIsmVmU043No5VvEJoNQFV2RQxr_EpRJVJI4GzYRkebyNTT07qCcgijDFIc9rjEcVTPJP3OnCIsBRidMs551TO7TibwSoCopu0ke6GhFwTVjh7Whg0AugWbL-NN69BsOJXWEsQ/s320/Frank_Duffy.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Duffy acquitted himself quite well as a utility man for the Bosox in '78. He capably played every infield spot except first. In 64 games he hit .260, which was almost 30 points above his career average. He is probably best remembered for being part of two of the most lopsided trades in baseball history. First he was traded by the Reds to the Giants for a moody slugger naked George Foster. Then later that year he was traded with future HOF'er Gaylord Perry from the Giants to the Indians, where he was their starting shortstop for 6 seasons. 1979 would be his final year in baseball. Boston didn't need his services and used him sparingly (6 game, 0-3). He was given his release on May 22, 1979 and never played again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7Mv7ruIogm_EpCatjuzv__TQ70S_ghrQQD64VD2S_Mrq0pz9Sr3NdNiEMIjtXpJI4MsTozq6r_q6Yd76ixEufbWI-TUAdBX88SK1hQF898gvCcFemB5mIyVEpVyHtTdM71LcCCEznS4/s1600/Fred_Kendall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7Mv7ruIogm_EpCatjuzv__TQ70S_ghrQQD64VD2S_Mrq0pz9Sr3NdNiEMIjtXpJI4MsTozq6r_q6Yd76ixEufbWI-TUAdBX88SK1hQF898gvCcFemB5mIyVEpVyHtTdM71LcCCEznS4/s320/Fred_Kendall.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Came over from the Indians in the lopsided Eckersley trade. As a 3rd string catcher he got into just 20 games and hit .195. At the conclusion of the season he filed for free agency and signed back with the Padres for 2 more seasons. His greatest successes occurred during his 10 seasons in a Padre uniform. His best year was 1973 where he hit .282 with 10 homers in 145 games. I colorized this photo from a B&W shot found on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1cjlWj-ULXZAjHplSguzSusb-eZAO89Ozrwh-3dv1p02E1D4iCaP6M683psXUbSFWTxOYinSSrhdDN3r93UAyMBZneVWbSjk2yAoi2mdMgsLmOTc8Mygz1V9yJkAAUuWnt4te-rIxJw/s1600/Garry_Hancock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1cjlWj-ULXZAjHplSguzSusb-eZAO89Ozrwh-3dv1p02E1D4iCaP6M683psXUbSFWTxOYinSSrhdDN3r93UAyMBZneVWbSjk2yAoi2mdMgsLmOTc8Mygz1V9yJkAAUuWnt4te-rIxJw/s320/Garry_Hancock.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Hancock was dealt to the Boston Red Sox for Jack Baker following the 1977 season. After batting .303 for the Pawtucket Red Sox through July 1978, he was called up to Boston. He remained with the club for the rest of the season as a fourth outfielder and left-handed bat off the bench, batting .225 with four runs batted in and ten runs scored. He spent all of 1979 with Pawtucket and batted .325 to win the International League batting title. He received his second call up to the majors in June 1980 and remained with the Bosox through 1981. after batting .294 with a career high 21 home runs at Pawtucket in 1982, he was called up to the majors again in September 1982. In fifteen plate appearances for the Bosox, he had one walk to show for it.<br />
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">Native New Englander Remy played three seasons for the Angels as their starting second baseman before being traded to the Boston Red Sox after the 1977 season.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">Remy continued as the Red Sox starter at second in 1978, being selected to play in the All-Star Game, in which he did not appear. He continued as their starting second baseman for the next six seasons, although he was often hampered by injuries. A knee injury in May 1985 led to Remy's release by the Red Sox in December 1985 and to his retiring during spring training a few months later in 1986. Bill James, in his Historical Abstract rated him as the 100th greatest second baseman of all time as of 2001. Known to all Red Sahx fans as the "Rem-Dawg" as he broadcasts their games on NESN.</span></span></div>
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Wright's breakthrough came in 1977 with the Triple-A Pawtucket Red Sox, where he went 12-8 with a 2.94 ERA. Wright made the Red Sox out of spring training in 1978 and went on to pitch 3 shutouts in 24 games (16 of them starts) as a rookie. He posted an 8-4 win-loss record with an ERA of 3.57 by the end of the season.<br />
Wright pitched six shutout innings in his first start of 1979. However, it wound up as his only start of the year, as he was moved to the bullpen to make room in the rotation for rookie Chuck Rainey. He did not pitch at all after an injury in early June, playing his final game on June 6. He finished with a record of 1-0 and an ERA of 5.09.<br />
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Another colorization that I superimposed on the Fenway background. Look closely and you can tell that that this was originally a B&W photo. On September 20, 1978, LaRose made a relief appearance against Detroit at Tiger Stadium. He allowed five runs (22.0 ERA), giving three hit and five walks without strikeouts over 2.0 innings of work. He did not have a decision and never appeared in a major league game again.<br />
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Bowen spent three seasons in the Boston minor league system before earning a promotion to the Red Sox in 1977, after hitting .265 with 15 home runs and 49 RBI for Triple-A Pawtucket Red Sox. He started 1978 in Triple-A and was recalled during the midseason to replace departed Bernie Carbo. After that, he led Pawtucket with 28 home runs and 75 RBI in 1979, and played his last professional season in 1980, while dividing his playing time between Pawtucket and Boston. I used a minor league photo taken at Pawtucket and replaced the P with a B on the cap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzoyViXT35qoN0Q907W1gPQ2KeohHRclntH7YCokQMqPDYVhDA2YKQMM_sumkVkuWm6LRpa_KVkq3WvP2IznED376pW2jaBId3xBa9UidY9Nn24fA0sBL4IHjKjgXyC2NDlD42y17MXI/s1600/Tom_Burgmeier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzoyViXT35qoN0Q907W1gPQ2KeohHRclntH7YCokQMqPDYVhDA2YKQMM_sumkVkuWm6LRpa_KVkq3WvP2IznED376pW2jaBId3xBa9UidY9Nn24fA0sBL4IHjKjgXyC2NDlD42y17MXI/s320/Tom_Burgmeier.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
A solid lefty reliever, who pitched until he was 40, Burgmeier spent 4 highly productive seasons in Boston from 1978-1982. (21-12, 2.72, 40sv). His worst season in Boston was '78 (2-1, 4.40, 4sv). He was a first time All-Star in 1980 at the age of 36.<br />
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<b>Fun Fact:</b> On August 3, 1980, while playing for the Boston Red Sox, Burgmeier moved from the pitcher's mound to left field with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning. Skip Lockwood replaced Burgmeier on the mound and retired the final batter to save a 6-4 win over the Texas Rangers. Manager Don Zimmer elected to keep Tom in the game in case the batter got on base—in that case Burgmeier would have returned to the mound to face Mickey Rivers.ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-43898729078035134362012-12-17T10:35:00.001-08:002012-12-17T10:35:46.616-08:00Home on the Range(rs)<br />
As late as July 2nd the Rangers held a share of the lead in the NL West, but then things went drastically wrong and they dropped out of contention. During that month of July the Rangers would go 10-20 and by August 1st they found themselves 10 games out. Losing streaks of 8 and 5 games respectively will always harm your pennant chances. To their credit the Rangers did not give up. They went 15-2 from September 15th on and finished a respectable 5 games out, but the pennant race (for them) was over two months earlier.<br />
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Texas posted above average offensive numbers. The team was 4th in homers and #1 in walks. Rent a player Bobby Bonds led the team with 29 clouts. DH Richie Zisk added 22. Three other players had double figures. Newly acquired left fielder Al Oliver led the team with a .324 average. The bench was light and was led by a trio of .220 hitters, Kurt Bevacqua, John Lowenstein and Bobby Thompson.<br />
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The pitching staff was led by newly acquired co-aces, Jon Matlack (15-13, 2.27) and Fergie Jenkins (18-8, 3.04). Number 3 man Doyle Alexander had a hard luck 9-10, 3.86 record. The pen was shaky, which would explain why Alexander had a tough time posting a winning record. Matlack (18) and Jenkins (16) closed games out with regularity, while Alexander put his fate in the hands of the pen. Reggie Cleveland (5-7, 3.09, 12sv) was the team's closer. Steve Comer (11-5, 2.30) let a lot of inherited runners score then benefited from the offense handing him a comeback win. This was a top heavy staff that definitely needed a solid lefty out of the pen and a more prime time closer.<br />
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I added 20 new cards to round out the Rangers 1978 set.<br />
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In 18 years in the biggs Oliver hit .303. In 4 years in Texas he never hit below .300. The man was a hitting machine and in my opinion belongs in Cooperstown. Oliver cut his teeth as the star centerfielder for the great Pirate teams of the early/mid 70's. He was dealt to the Rangers on December 8, 1977 as part of a 4 team blockbuster deal that also netted Jon Matlack for the Rangers. Oliver lived up to all the hype that proceeded him. He would eventually move on to Montreal and win a batting title. The man could flat out hit the cover off a ball. This photo came from a Rangers fan club player profile. Look at how those eyes are focused on hitting.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">Sample singled on his first major league pitch in 1978, made the Topps All Rookie Team in 1979, had his longest hitting streak (19 games) in 1981, was fifth in the A.L. in steals (44 of 52) in 1983, sixth in power-speed numbers and was the tenth toughest to strike out in the league, with only teammate Buddy Bell having hit more home runs of the preceding nine. Sample finished with a career .272 average. He hit a whopping .467 in just 15 at bats during the 78 season. A career 4th outfielder/platoon player, who actually did very well when given full time status. Sample played 7 of his 9 seasons in Arlington. He hung them up after hitting .285 in Atlanta in 1986 and moved into the broadcasting booth where he is acknowledged as one of the most respected broadcasters in baseball. I found this autographed photo on ebay.</span><br />
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"...and Bobby Bonds could play for everyone". That was a quote from Terry Cashman's song "Willie, Mickey and the Duke". By the late 70's Bonds seemed to have player for almost everyone. After 7 All-Star / Gold Glove years in San Francisco, Bonds was traded to the Yankees in 1975. That started the carousel of teams that he would wear a uniform for. He would play for 7 different teams over the final 7 years of his career. All he needed to do was hang on for another 5 years and he might have had a shot to play with his exceptionally talented skinny son. In his 1 season in Texas Bonds hit .265 with 29 homers and 37 stolen bases. Bonds arrived on May 16, 1978 in a trade with the Chicago White Sox for Rusty Torres and Claudell Washington. Interestingly Washington would turn out to be as well traveled as Bonds by the time his career would end. This photo came from his 1979 card.<br />
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Thompson was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 1972 amateur draft, and played six years in the Rangers Minor league system before joining the big team on April 16, 1978. In his only major league season, Thompson served as a reserve outfielder for Al Oliver, Juan Beníquez and Bobby Bonds, being also used in pinch-hitting and pinch-running duties while appearing in 64 games. He hit a .225 average (27-for-120), including three doubles, three triples, two home runs and seven stolen bases, while driving in 12 runs and scoring 23 times. He played his last game on September 25. In a six-season minor league career, he hit .273 and 29 home runs in 520 games. This photo came from his 1978 Burger King Card, which was an updated team set issued by BK midway through the season.<br />
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Blessed with a rubber arm Darwin could either start or relieve. In some cased he might do both if his team was playing a double header. In 1978 this 22 year old rookie went 1-0, 4.15 in just 8 innings of work. The Rangers would ease him in slowly over the next few years and that strategy would pay them huge dividends. From 1978-1984 Darwin would go 53-50, 3.58 with 15 saves and 21 complete games. He would go on to pitch 21 years in the big leagues retiring at the age of 42 in 1998. He earned his nickname "Dr. Death" from Hall of Fame teammate Nolan Ryan, during his stint in Houston. This Spring Training photo was found on ebay.<br />
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The Rangers liked Jenkins so much from his first tour in Texas (1974-75), they decided to bring him back for an encore in 1978. Fergie, who by this time had compiled seven 20 win seasons, was already destined for the hallowed halls of Cooperstown. At the age of 35 he pitched 249 innings in Arlington and went 18-8, 3.04. Jenkins would finish his career with a 285-226, 3.34 record, which is exceptionally impressive considering he pitched half of his games in Wrigley field. He won 20 games for 6 consecutive seasons from 1967-1972. In 1971 he finally won his only Cy Young Award. He finished 2nd in the balloting twice and 3rd twice. I used his 1979 Burger King Update Card here.<br />
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Gray hit .240 with 2 homers in 50 at bats as a part time DH for the Rangers in 1978. He would increase his average to .273, the following season, but exhibit zero pop. Basically he was a punch hitter without a position. In 1981 and 1982 he would see extensive action with the Mariners, but deliver mediocre results. After his tenure in Seattle ended in '82 he left for 5 seasons in the Mexican League. I found this photo of him taken at Comiskey on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uSuQULAGGyGuYotna2Uarpl0btOuh45rIz_UI3TiJ2FQO15ewoAop2-eeJu7pnejWCL1eeDYrLvhXPJBZYpV8tKagG56yPfScy9OumKEbJgF9pJ1lMQUS0W9q2_Ii0iCf95JD44dAww/s1600/Greg_Mahlberg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uSuQULAGGyGuYotna2Uarpl0btOuh45rIz_UI3TiJ2FQO15ewoAop2-eeJu7pnejWCL1eeDYrLvhXPJBZYpV8tKagG56yPfScy9OumKEbJgF9pJ1lMQUS0W9q2_Ii0iCf95JD44dAww/s320/Greg_Mahlberg.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Mahlberg was signed by the Texas Rangers as an undrafted free agent in 1973 and appeared briefly in the majorsl for the Rangers in 1978-79, collecting two hits in 18 at bats for an .111 career batting average. As a minor leaguer, he batted .241 in 705 games spread over ten seasons (1973–82). This photo came from his minor league card. In '78 he had just 1 at bat in 1 game for Texas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kdhs8MvkAR9y_sOt82knhEyii7BRNwhyphenhyphenLGbpu7HpdhoBhnaD7vooBmy9hHjhVY6HALVvL6Pg1Ca2kIsuD8MPa0V1TLhf8ljascKWl865qzbiDoQ43HVU_8ZTf8CZB9JKXovL7ORTDLI/s1600/Jim_Umbarger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kdhs8MvkAR9y_sOt82knhEyii7BRNwhyphenhyphenLGbpu7HpdhoBhnaD7vooBmy9hHjhVY6HALVvL6Pg1Ca2kIsuD8MPa0V1TLhf8ljascKWl865qzbiDoQ43HVU_8ZTf8CZB9JKXovL7ORTDLI/s320/Jim_Umbarger.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Umbarger made his major league debut in April, 1975, with the Rangers, and had a successful rookie season for the team, going 8–7 in 56 games (12 of them starts), with a 4.12 ERA. The following season, Umbarger started 30 games for the Rangers, going 10–12 with a 3.15 ERA. Prior to the 1977 season, Umbarger was traded to the Oakland Athletics, along with Rodney Scott, for outfielder Claudell Washington. After struggling for most of the season for Oakland, Umbarger was sold back to the Rangers in August, 1977. Umbarger finished the 1977 season with the Rangers and returned for the 1978 campaign, appearing in 32 games and posting a 4.88 ERA. The 1978 season would be Umbarger's last in the major leagues. While in the minor leagues in 1981, he pitched 10 scoreless innings in relief in the longest professional baseball game. This photo came from the scarcely traded 1978 SSPC set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7YuoXU9hcyjC-HeOISV9e3BrRUqnN-dmzCbe8jLKtu27OugqFNb-mUmdo8i3E7dORFMzlCXMFNQTIbwxufQV-zeoyqt9T_Mu45mnKKS7VNh4iidYaDe_K2RrP94dIgOKDafYecXfub8Y/s1600/John_Lowenstein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7YuoXU9hcyjC-HeOISV9e3BrRUqnN-dmzCbe8jLKtu27OugqFNb-mUmdo8i3E7dORFMzlCXMFNQTIbwxufQV-zeoyqt9T_Mu45mnKKS7VNh4iidYaDe_K2RrP94dIgOKDafYecXfub8Y/s320/John_Lowenstein.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
"Tonight, let it be Lowenstein" was a 31 year old spare part outfielder who arrived in Texas after spending 8 nondescript seasons in Cleveland. Lowenstein hit in the .220's and was exposed to Waivers at the conclusion of the '78 season. Baltimore picked him up and Earl Weaver made him a key contributor as a platoon player for 2 pennant winners and 1 World Championship team. Pictured here is his Burger King Update card from 1978.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEaPpOLWrzpah18Gi8FOVUcAk1TeEomsjd3PGdvrZ9B9c3u87H2gDcaT9oOsm3R96qwsSaqCoMp1mPQuLC7gPKSe0BK0OFmW-XX4rUNCqpSejcXyKcZBu_K6NXotLIg8921Bvx6XATBw/s1600/Johnny_Grubb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEaPpOLWrzpah18Gi8FOVUcAk1TeEomsjd3PGdvrZ9B9c3u87H2gDcaT9oOsm3R96qwsSaqCoMp1mPQuLC7gPKSe0BK0OFmW-XX4rUNCqpSejcXyKcZBu_K6NXotLIg8921Bvx6XATBw/s320/Johnny_Grubb.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Grubb was rescued from Cleveland on August 31st in an exchange for 3 minor league suspects. In just 21 games in Texas he hit a robust .394 (13-33) as a pinch hitter and spot starter. Grubb was a rock solid lefty platoon player for Texas for the next 4 seasons. Later in his career he would win a championship with the 1984 Tigers. As a 24 year old rookie in 1973 he finished 6th in the ROY balloting while playing for San Diego. The following season he made his only All-Star appearance. In 16 major league seasons he hit .278 with 99 homers. I found this autographed photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQmwcV2aVO1z1NqOxtWKlAZrjlRiVVxPWD84hcv9Vqzh8iePlxAbvcEaw9l9WFmxjoivfZcvGJin1BaGhNxGbg73iWshY2fhUgRe7gixH0ZFJIQlMziBO1bXORA5ZJwKY-eXxhvHbWM0/s1600/Jon_Matlack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQmwcV2aVO1z1NqOxtWKlAZrjlRiVVxPWD84hcv9Vqzh8iePlxAbvcEaw9l9WFmxjoivfZcvGJin1BaGhNxGbg73iWshY2fhUgRe7gixH0ZFJIQlMziBO1bXORA5ZJwKY-eXxhvHbWM0/s320/Jon_Matlack.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
At one point Matlack was considered the "jewel of the Mets farm system". He won the NL ROY in 1972 and holds the record for the lowes ERA for a Met in home games at Shea Stadium. Not too bad considering guys named: Seaver, Koosman & Gooden also called Flushing home. After the '77 season Met ownership was in flux. Their goal was to trade away contracts or expiring contracts. Matlack was a 27 year old prime time lefty entering his best years. He was packaged in that huge 4 team deal. His 15-12, 2.37 season in Texas made an immediate splash. Unfortunately he was not able to maintain that consistency, plus he developed on again off again arm issues. By 1983, at the age of 33, he was out of baseball. He would finish his career 1 game under .500 (125-126, 3.18). If he only played for teams that hit for him he might have won 200 games. This is his 1978 Burger King Update card. His original 1978 card pictured him as a Met.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFO0YkFX3N_0g41giEzNxLbOIul3g4YkBIAiSR1UGdt-l-zP1MkNOVz0YMaQ7KA4BkAHwJAAHLMWmziMvs76gAscllEInsYHY-25lPG_EdLCuaiHQqX5SFz0P0Y-xICYb6wVRzZZADQw/s1600/LaRue_Washington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFO0YkFX3N_0g41giEzNxLbOIul3g4YkBIAiSR1UGdt-l-zP1MkNOVz0YMaQ7KA4BkAHwJAAHLMWmziMvs76gAscllEInsYHY-25lPG_EdLCuaiHQqX5SFz0P0Y-xICYb6wVRzZZADQw/s320/LaRue_Washington.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
I found this excellent colorization on the OOTP board. You can always find some great art work there. Washington played in just 3 games in '78 and went 0-3. In '79 he appeared in 25 games and hit .278 (5-18), then disappeared in the minors never to be heard of again. Being sent down must have crushed him because he was a .300+ hitter in his first tour on the farm. After being sent down in '79 his average dropped year after year as he switched franchises.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMlJjJQFuxGjTGWumckIx4_vg4ITFk1iaYbiPWtXvCiFWsMrDev7FPU3tYfHEea6YQxmI2QVDHv7TwpesFxV31n3R-dBfsrMSz77ytFJYW1jSdrO7knWixFo_VBa6_h-NrA0iqb28KAQ/s1600/Mike_Jorgensen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMlJjJQFuxGjTGWumckIx4_vg4ITFk1iaYbiPWtXvCiFWsMrDev7FPU3tYfHEea6YQxmI2QVDHv7TwpesFxV31n3R-dBfsrMSz77ytFJYW1jSdrO7knWixFo_VBa6_h-NrA0iqb28KAQ/s320/Mike_Jorgensen.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
In the early 70's Jorgy had some fine years as the Expos starting first baseman. He was a slick fielder who posted a decent average with some moderate pop. After the '76 season the Expos gave up on him and he became one of those well traveled journeyman types. He was always an asset to the teams that he played on because of his glove. He was beaned during his second season in Texas and never fully felt comfortable in the batters box afterward. In 97 at bats he hit just .196 for the Rangers in 1978. He put together a nice 17 year career and finished up in 1985 as Jack Clark's replacement on the NL Pennant winning Cardinals. This photo comes from his 1979 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtKeHBr7km_I-qJtBIug6KfHvGGetXpWyNfRunHN1xKR7w3E5BADTJ-ephUR7BnHyORERmuS_Gle3SNj6-ClWJcFZYtkOtGt7o-3NnKn3nqx5Bx29vbkqDOn33zyB_nsakuRQY1-EBTQ0/s1600/Nelson_Norman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtKeHBr7km_I-qJtBIug6KfHvGGetXpWyNfRunHN1xKR7w3E5BADTJ-ephUR7BnHyORERmuS_Gle3SNj6-ClWJcFZYtkOtGt7o-3NnKn3nqx5Bx29vbkqDOn33zyB_nsakuRQY1-EBTQ0/s320/Nelson_Norman.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Norman started the 1978 season with the Tucson Toros. In mid-May, starting shortstop Bert Campaneris was injured, and Norman was called up to the majors to back up replacement Jim Mason. He made his major league debut on May 20, three days before his 20th birthday. He entered the game in the sixth inning after the Rangers had pinch-hit for Mason. He played three innings in the field, handling one chance on defense, before he was lifted for pinch hitter Mike Jorgensen. Two days later, Norman made his first start and got his first major league hit. When Campaneris was activated in early June, Norman returned to Tucson. He spent the rest of the season there, batting .284 with 76 RBIs. He returned to the major leagues in September, finishing his first season with nine hits in 34 at bats. Norman won the starting job the following season, but hit .222 and destined himself to being a career minor leaguer. This photo came from his '78 Minor League Card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKe71oONdmbDA4E5XbTTgDZoow7T_ZsD2MIPXD7MmbGefAoq99KmHQX2dV6aYC39DoeI3el24K5_SYML65NAnoJ-idoQpBstijUQinZyh8DJtDbCUbdSB55C50Z1a2u1cy59ayHORtqzo/s1600/Pat_Putnam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKe71oONdmbDA4E5XbTTgDZoow7T_ZsD2MIPXD7MmbGefAoq99KmHQX2dV6aYC39DoeI3el24K5_SYML65NAnoJ-idoQpBstijUQinZyh8DJtDbCUbdSB55C50Z1a2u1cy59ayHORtqzo/s320/Pat_Putnam.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Putnam tore up the Pacific Coast League with Tucson in 1978, batting .309 with 21 home runs and 96 RBIs. He had only two RBIs with the Rangers that season, however, they were both big ones. He managed to drive in the only run in their 1-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners on September 22,[1] and two days later, in the Rangers' 5-3 victory at Arlington Stadium over the Mariners, Putnam hit his first major league home run. Putnam mostly appeared in the line-up as a designated hitter until on Monday, May 28, 1979, when regular Rangers first baseman Mike Jorgensen was hit in the head by a pitch from Boston Red Sox pitcher Andy Hassler.[2] Putnam took over as the Rangers' regular first baseman for the next month. Putnam made the most of the opportunity and batter .277 with 18 home runs and 64 RBIs to finish fourth in Rookie of the Year balloting. In 6 seasons with Texas he would hit .262. I found this great fan shot of Putnam sitting on his glove during a Spring Training game.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTe2NUPdTcboTa1ka0iILckhAcDDnHqJJTyJgZhNObmRZnkDsJK4REBVIe5vwoKLotgVV-N_9nwZUl8OCwy08bV699Y6yfmu6RtlvpbS97vneIQ12JHBh_eXJW8nmUk_bGsJw0gG0SeVM/s1600/Paul_Mirabella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTe2NUPdTcboTa1ka0iILckhAcDDnHqJJTyJgZhNObmRZnkDsJK4REBVIe5vwoKLotgVV-N_9nwZUl8OCwy08bV699Y6yfmu6RtlvpbS97vneIQ12JHBh_eXJW8nmUk_bGsJw0gG0SeVM/s320/Paul_Mirabella.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Mirabella was a spare bullpen part going 3-2, 5.79 in 10 games for the Rangers in '78. He was dealt to his hometown team, the Yankees, after the season and was even worse. He spent 13 seasons bouncing up and down from the major to the minors and from franchise to franchise as a lefty specialist. He returned to Texas in '82 for a second, but brief shot. This shot came from his '83 Fleer card.<br />
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Canadian born Reggie Cleveland <span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">was the 1971 Sporting News National League Rookie of the Year, while with the Cardinals. On April 18, 1978 the Rangers purchased his contract from Boston and inserted him into the closer role out of the pen. He would notch 12 saves with a 3.09 ERA for the balance of the season. At the conclusion of the season he was dealt to Milwaukee. This is his 1978 Burger King Update card.</span><br />
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Zisk's original '77 card was one of those horrible air brush jobs straight out of the Crayola Factory. This photo came from the Polish HOF website. Zisk signed with the Rangers as a free agent after spending 1 season as a member of the White Sox' famed South Side Hitmen. He was truly a professional hitter and excellent DH for Texas in 3 seasons before moving on to Seattle where he did the same.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTZ-XgRgQmGXTGYITURRVcR34yVaR78CPO7jwLUi53Ozue1Xz63mGDiZqS1LrACiiCdWajcbvgTl7T4c4BYFSlKb4YTBfZH0Yp20hpyeaf7jR-e8YE0wbW2q52N0mB3ETHaYX_t6MMng/s1600/Steve_Comer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTZ-XgRgQmGXTGYITURRVcR34yVaR78CPO7jwLUi53Ozue1Xz63mGDiZqS1LrACiiCdWajcbvgTl7T4c4BYFSlKb4YTBfZH0Yp20hpyeaf7jR-e8YE0wbW2q52N0mB3ETHaYX_t6MMng/s320/Steve_Comer.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Surprisingly Comer, a 24 year old rookie in 1978, did not finish in the top ten in the AL ROY balloting. His 11-5, 2.30 season as a swing man between the pen and the rotation should have warranted consideration. As a full fledged starter he went 17-12, 3.68 the following season Everyone expected him to be a star. Like so many young phenoms he developed arm and control problems and was out of baseball by the age of 30. This photo was supplied by "the elves" and it comes from his '79 rookie card.<br />
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ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-56555914123348927672012-12-16T18:16:00.003-08:002012-12-16T18:16:52.432-08:00Dial M's for many lossesThe 2nd year expansion Mariners lost a lot of games, which didn't take a MENSA candidate to figure out. What we do notice, especially since we have hindsight, is that this was not a franchise with a plan designed to head them in the right direction. Darrell Johnson's boys with the Trident on their cap finished a woeful 56-104, which gave them sole posession of the cellar in the AL West 35 games behind the division winning Royals. If anything the M's were at least consistent. They finished dead last in pitching in the AL and next to last in offense. This was a team that could hurt itself on both sides of the ball to steal a football term. Only 2 starters logged more than 150 innings (Paul Mitchell & Glenn Abbott). This would explain why 4 guys from the pen had over 100 innings. Only two of the 15 men to toe the rubber had a winning record on this staff. Closer Enrique Romo posted an 11-7, 3.69, 10sv record and setup man Tom House was 5-4, 4.66. Night in and night out the M's would find a way to lose. They did have two decent young pitching prospects who were taking their lumps in the majors. 24 year old Rick Honeycutt was 5-11, 4.89 and 22 year old Shane Rawley 4-9, 4.12 were the only 2 guys with any upside here.<br />
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Leon Roberts carried the offense posting the only .300+ season in the hitter friendly Kingdome. Roberts (.301-22-92) was the only Mariner to hit more than 20 homers. Bruce Bochte and Bob Stinson were tied for 2nd with 11 homers each. Teams playing in the Kingdome needed to go yard frequently. The M's finished 13 out of 14 in that category, which meant the fans sitting in the bleachers threw back more balls than they kept. Julio Cruz stole 59 bases, but hit just .235. He was a decent prospect who would develop into a steady second sacker with speed. Ruppert Jones had a good glove in center, but he too hit .235. Once the two of these young stars developed Seattle would start scoring runs. On a team that hit .248 it's tough to have any bench support. Tom Paciorek, a 31 year old veteran without a regular spot in the lineup, provided a .299 average off the bench and a spot starter in the outfield and DH. Leroy Stanton, the team's regular DH, slupped badly from his breakout year in '77. Stanton hit just .182 with 3 homers and looked like he was more like 52 instead of 32.<br />
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Plummer's claim to fame was as Johnny Bench's catch and throw backup for almost a decade. In Seattle he got a chance to start and showed why he was a prototypical #2 guy. In 41 games he hit .215 and got farmed out. He finished his 10 year MLB career with a .188 average. I used his 1979 Card photo here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLwhv36IKBWQmUEvwJ7gywjjoOvXoR_B6Yqn3VDBSc4XMzrvkvOyL4fHtVOidjuvIPqQjfNuR6YW99HWq_78aZbgmQAH9fjf1S86aOQOx0YK3Fdem_5y2BbEihE0rkjaKv_yO3sjThrA/s1600/Bob_Robertson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLwhv36IKBWQmUEvwJ7gywjjoOvXoR_B6Yqn3VDBSc4XMzrvkvOyL4fHtVOidjuvIPqQjfNuR6YW99HWq_78aZbgmQAH9fjf1S86aOQOx0YK3Fdem_5y2BbEihE0rkjaKv_yO3sjThrA/s320/Bob_Robertson.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Robertson had some very good years as part of Pittsburgh's famed "Lumber Company" in the early 70's. Surgery on both of his knees robbed him of his massive power and reduced him to a spot starter and platoon player. Due to injury he sat out the whole 1977 season and was released by the Bucs. Seattle, in search of some offensive spark, too a flier on him. In 15 games he hit just 1 homer and batted a measly .103, before getting injured again. The M's hoped he could get healthy, but that was just not in the cards and Robertson was given his unconditional release in January 1979. The photo for this card came from an 8x10 glossy sold on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOmsbDmk9NajAAwpMT6wTrp_3Xztr-MDBCeWVYrC23qVi7ZWGqDkMpV7skXTv4jVqpYIk0WTna9ukf4lM-B51jkAKbK4xGy8fAzPqoMHHrihuU3WBZbsrmlvM7iAUSY5pOAiwtzC4G2s/s1600/Bruce_Bochte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOmsbDmk9NajAAwpMT6wTrp_3Xztr-MDBCeWVYrC23qVi7ZWGqDkMpV7skXTv4jVqpYIk0WTna9ukf4lM-B51jkAKbK4xGy8fAzPqoMHHrihuU3WBZbsrmlvM7iAUSY5pOAiwtzC4G2s/s320/Bruce_Bochte.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Bochte was a line drive hitting machine in search of a home and a position. With not enough power to play his natural first base he bounced around the outfield for the Angels before being dealt Indians in 1977 and then signing as a free agent with the M's in '78. In 5 years in Seattle he hit .290 with 58 homers. Bochte boycotted the entire 1983 season as a personal protest over rising player salaries. He believed that money was destroying the game he loved, but he returned without explanation the next season. Bochte is now an avowed agnostic and is working to "save the Mother Earth from humankind's destructive ways." He states that he has no contact with anyone from his baseball days except for Dusty Baker. It is unknown how and why he and Baker still communicate. This card was produced using his 1980 super sized card photo<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnY0G00xzmgKZQQQ3a1_DhNxtqgS7c23_4g0Q0-wfF4QOThW5BosmCqKQ1R8iZ1fZTb0nThlzUAZDOUA_0k6rhFu3MHLOGX85wPEVigw6eyWxGU9R-pDL-cba_XxIoqxUYTZhaxFIvciY/s1600/Byron_McLaughlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnY0G00xzmgKZQQQ3a1_DhNxtqgS7c23_4g0Q0-wfF4QOThW5BosmCqKQ1R8iZ1fZTb0nThlzUAZDOUA_0k6rhFu3MHLOGX85wPEVigw6eyWxGU9R-pDL-cba_XxIoqxUYTZhaxFIvciY/s320/Byron_McLaughlin.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
McLaughlin was a marginal major league pitcher who turned into a major international felon. After his career, McLaughlin allegedly worked in the counterfeit consumer goods industry in Mexico making knock-off athletic footwear, which included shoes designed to look like Converse, Vans, and Adidas. In 1990, he was arrested for trafficking the counterfeit shoes and money laundering. He pleaded guilty to the money laundering charges, and proceeded to post bail. Before being sentenced, McLaughlin fled and his current whereabouts are unknown. In 1978 he was 4-8, 4.37 as a part time starter part time long reliever. This photo comes from his Donruss '82 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLq6Y6ktoaGqyd8Xw7XL2FFRm99KX8WjMtmh66_tg5EaAuCo8bqUqMkw2Kyr9gv2VykMSg3eWZVW_mkpc8vzXTHILdnp8fXQfr1hIdaKhP0pvbTxVmr57BxbtBzSgFYYIQeDKreiNb8ho/s1600/Charlie_Beamon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLq6Y6ktoaGqyd8Xw7XL2FFRm99KX8WjMtmh66_tg5EaAuCo8bqUqMkw2Kyr9gv2VykMSg3eWZVW_mkpc8vzXTHILdnp8fXQfr1hIdaKhP0pvbTxVmr57BxbtBzSgFYYIQeDKreiNb8ho/s320/Charlie_Beamon.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Beamon's 11 at bats in 1978 netted a .182 average. In 2 succeeding cups of coffee in the majors he would not pass the Mendoza line with the stick. He would spend a total of 10 seasons in the minors and hit .288 there. His dad, Charles Beamon, Sr. also mirrored his son's success spending 9 seasons in the minors with 3 cups of Joe in the majors. I used his 1980 rookie panel card photo for this card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6Nhiwj6X6CHE6GdiLbBNeIwbdve0kBE4xU6JskOQ8_SjVduCookr80KkWYllllOMloF66FViRmy66uIJdbL3wJdGVVzdIz_xnunUECudzjdxeyDLBkEw9_vmVDhW5xqqp6gy9OjN6iI/s1600/Jim_Colborn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6Nhiwj6X6CHE6GdiLbBNeIwbdve0kBE4xU6JskOQ8_SjVduCookr80KkWYllllOMloF66FViRmy66uIJdbL3wJdGVVzdIz_xnunUECudzjdxeyDLBkEw9_vmVDhW5xqqp6gy9OjN6iI/s320/Jim_Colborn.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
1978 marked the end of the road for this veteran 32 year old hurler. 1973 was Colborn’s best season; he became the Brewers' first-ever 20-game winner, posting a 20-12 record with a 3.18 ERA. He also was named to the American League All-Star team, but did not pitch in the game. On May 14, 1977, Colborn no-hit the Texas Rangers 6-0, the first no-hitter by a Royal at Royals Stadium. He would finish the season with 18 wins for the Royals and appear in the ALCS. The Royals didn't think he was worth big free agent bucks, so they let him go to Seattle where he was 3-10, 5.35 and was released. I found this autographed photo on sale on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic58HChiJChPretfWrNeud5ayOpZBN2jlvUzWQVxt4rCP14bGoAzUrkgiLh_W9Nx1b-xTTv6OO4foIjIpcOU1Yr3Gjj_yq3hD0KQH986welSsuLDgfeItXTpLx1RgwWE_USxSShK60SN0/s1600/Kevin_Pasley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic58HChiJChPretfWrNeud5ayOpZBN2jlvUzWQVxt4rCP14bGoAzUrkgiLh_W9Nx1b-xTTv6OO4foIjIpcOU1Yr3Gjj_yq3hD0KQH986welSsuLDgfeItXTpLx1RgwWE_USxSShK60SN0/s320/Kevin_Pasley.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
In September 1977, the Mariners purchased Pasley from the Dodgers. In four games with the Mariners that season, he batted .385 with five hits in 13 at-bats. Combined between the Dodgers and the Mariners that year, Pasley had six hits in 16 at-bats, putting his average at .375. On May 8, 1978, he was sent down to the minor leagues. In the minors, Pasley played with the Mariners Triple-A affiliate, the San Jose Missions. With the team, he batted .261 with 32 runs scored, 94 hits, 19 doubles, one triple, three home runs, and 43 RBIs in 98 games played. He was called-up to the majors in late-August. On October 1, Pasley hit his first career major league home run during his final at-bat of the game and of the season. That at-bat would later prove to be his final in the majors. On March 28, 1979, the Mariners released Pasley. He would bounce around the minors for the next few years. This was a heavily airbrushed photo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGQjV4DutFLzTqLdH6V492Pyfus2AeAiq8oaoPTAwbPSI3-ym88zCaRA6WxxsZsBmtFGHt3g4-8b7QKZd-3qV2kcBuOl5kUyxHy2ipq99Hh12Fpla5HzCtUNaYf73iz-NE6WNbvLublAg/s1600/Leon_Roberts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGQjV4DutFLzTqLdH6V492Pyfus2AeAiq8oaoPTAwbPSI3-ym88zCaRA6WxxsZsBmtFGHt3g4-8b7QKZd-3qV2kcBuOl5kUyxHy2ipq99Hh12Fpla5HzCtUNaYf73iz-NE6WNbvLublAg/s320/Leon_Roberts.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
In 1978, playing every day with Seattle, Roberts led his team with a .301 batting average, good for 6th in the league. That year, his first hit was a grand slam, occurring on April 9, 1978. Roberts would have diminishing success with Seattle over the next 3 seasons and would eventually be traded to Texas in a blockbuster deal that brought Richie Zisk to Seattle. He would spend 11 years in the majors playing for 6 different franchises and compiling a .267 batting average with 78 homers. This photo came from the M's 1979 media guide.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKZl9GPXkL7ejsrGL41097nR5iIVPMnPiD2CmPeVAS6PsqYHpadqbliCMiAywxfGO26SUFCiZBG5pT0k9z8itoZAtxcAk-zHa9TrqFsjuOQr5kiqDz6syYYKQKwovB77ZHDBeXpLAUQGY/s1600/Mike_Parrott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKZl9GPXkL7ejsrGL41097nR5iIVPMnPiD2CmPeVAS6PsqYHpadqbliCMiAywxfGO26SUFCiZBG5pT0k9z8itoZAtxcAk-zHa9TrqFsjuOQr5kiqDz6syYYKQKwovB77ZHDBeXpLAUQGY/s320/Mike_Parrott.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
On December 7, 1977 Parrott was traded by Baltimore to the Seattle Mariners for Carlos Lopez and Tommy Moore. In 1979, Parrott won a career high 14 games for the Mariners. He also led all Seattle pitchers in wins that year. After winning Seattle's opener in 1980, Parrott lost 16 straight to finish the season at 1-16, the longest such streak of the 1980s. On March 5, 1982 he was traded by the Mariners to the Milwaukee Brewers for Thad Bosley. He did not make the Brewers varsity and never again appeared in a MLB game. Parrott's nickname was Bird, which is neither shocking nor inventive. In 1978 he was 1-5, 5.14 in over 80 innings of work.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_JmqxFt_0OzZ-uCimJeho7MSjma38BHUv7sV1wK7E0DwyfN0zRaF3Bj4XgxOBLVaSz-yPM8iJp-iNiVKAfPGUXj1tIUexSLyJcfCI2AVc8yRfD1ZkxYMNEiVuaeV5wJ_8FmPjFWXSfA/s1600/Rick_Honeycutt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_JmqxFt_0OzZ-uCimJeho7MSjma38BHUv7sV1wK7E0DwyfN0zRaF3Bj4XgxOBLVaSz-yPM8iJp-iNiVKAfPGUXj1tIUexSLyJcfCI2AVc8yRfD1ZkxYMNEiVuaeV5wJ_8FmPjFWXSfA/s320/Rick_Honeycutt.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Honeycutt was originally drafted in the 17th round of the 1976 draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates. After 1 1⁄2 seasons in their minor league system, the Pirates traded him to the Seattle Mariners in August 1977 to complete an earlier trade for Dave Pagan. He made his major league debut on August 24, 1977 against the Toronto Blue Jays. He pitched two innings of relief, struck out 3, allowed 2 hits and no runs. His first start was against the New York Yankees on August 31. He pitched 7.1 innings in that start, allowing 3 runs. He finished the season 0-1, but got his first victory in his first start the following year, beating the Minnesota Twins on April 7, 1978. Honeycutt would represent the M's in the 1980 All-Star game. Later that year he was suspended for 10 games for using a thumbtack to doctor the ball. At the end of the season he was part of the Richie Zisk trade with Texas. He would have a 21 year MLB career. Most of it as a lefty bullpen specialist.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNk2vgPL7NybRId5TOCXypcM_8HMdRN6gW-d7GP9jUalZu-dC2dp0Syr9bNkTF6uEqnFzhQ-77ipqzIEj9r3RJsC5CaQrfXwIwgQl2JMYfXGWMg5p8bcWB9Uk0ONyIkFQrNbvUlo-UKo/s1600/Rick_Jones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNk2vgPL7NybRId5TOCXypcM_8HMdRN6gW-d7GP9jUalZu-dC2dp0Syr9bNkTF6uEqnFzhQ-77ipqzIEj9r3RJsC5CaQrfXwIwgQl2JMYfXGWMg5p8bcWB9Uk0ONyIkFQrNbvUlo-UKo/s320/Rick_Jones.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Jones' 1977 Topps card was voted as one of the All-Time worst in cardboard history. It looked more like a fresco drawing by a sub par 5th grader than a major leaguer's only baseball card. Since Jones was unimpressive in 1977 (1-4, 5.10) he did not rate a '78 card. Jones was even less impressive in '78 going 0-2, 5.84 in 3 games before being sent down to the farm. He would post 3 average seasons in AAA before being released. This photo came from his minor league card. Due to the hat angle that he had it was nearly impossible to find a Mariner cap to cover the one he had on. Airbrushing attempts failed, so I took a photo of an old Mariner's cap that I had in the house held at approximately the correct angle and then proceeded to do my version of "arts and crafts".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GAEbxZxM2Sn_-dGnplHLPuZiNePLWsLtPLEHjwHjQmWXko8_hLsID688_Vx-lFxMbBlJ55EDVsMlKWZB1vg5V6cxa-TCZO2yVV_KplIJaQ_Ua9LGP6jkdU5KUrJxKJhj7BfDazb5HS0/s1600/Shane_Rawley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GAEbxZxM2Sn_-dGnplHLPuZiNePLWsLtPLEHjwHjQmWXko8_hLsID688_Vx-lFxMbBlJ55EDVsMlKWZB1vg5V6cxa-TCZO2yVV_KplIJaQ_Ua9LGP6jkdU5KUrJxKJhj7BfDazb5HS0/s320/Shane_Rawley.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
On December 9, 1977 Rawley was traded by the Cincinnati Reds to the Seattle Mariners for Dave Collins. The trade turned out to be a wash, since neither player performed all that well. The trade made little sense to most considering the fact that Cincy had the best lineup in baseball and a dubious pitching staff other than Tom Seaver. Rawley would spend 4 seasons pitching out of the pen for the M's before being dealt to the Yankees who thought they could make him a front end starter. He did ok in New York, but the team was starting to stagnate and he never became the dominant lefty they envisioned him becoming. In 1987 he won 17 for the Phillies and started in the All-Star game for the NL, but quickly faded right after that. This photo was an autographed shot found on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcG2cHdZYsqNrqnsHfS2Oop8GRopPQd-H4NkS8UgrQiI_nuLEABueyFnf-Ds0APhUSFPSyln5zWkTc-HtxQLKEi8ic_JrT53LaFTxZxKh1a2Esff42H66orokVXIn6E0iOzv-zh-YL4w/s1600/Steve_Burke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcG2cHdZYsqNrqnsHfS2Oop8GRopPQd-H4NkS8UgrQiI_nuLEABueyFnf-Ds0APhUSFPSyln5zWkTc-HtxQLKEi8ic_JrT53LaFTxZxKh1a2Esff42H66orokVXIn6E0iOzv-zh-YL4w/s320/Steve_Burke.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Burke had good numbers in his two cups of coffee with the M's. In '77 he was 0-1, 2.87 in 15 innings and in '78 he was 0-1, 3.49 in 49 innings. One would have thought that a pitching starved organization like Seattle would have given him another shot, but that did not happen. Out of sheer curiosity I decided to do some research to figure out why Burke was out of baseball at the ripe old age of 24 despite decent numbers in limited action. The research didn't take long to uncover his 6.18 ERA at San Jose (AAA) in 1978 and a 6.80 ERA at Spokane (AAA) in 1979. Apparently Burke could only pitch to major leaguers and the M's weren't smart enough to catch on to that. This photo comes from his minor league card while at Spokane.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvcY8qi9YFIrOenZDxfWMh48rJxVlKSnBY1KsepooToTmwqDStJJYXzJIKgXD7q2nTuvPaHXvnQeazyTg-3JNGq_SL5plQE0muuUT4lLQYZer4IiQd78VttEOCFFV_HgwHGNbSnCL3FQ/s1600/Tom_Brown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvcY8qi9YFIrOenZDxfWMh48rJxVlKSnBY1KsepooToTmwqDStJJYXzJIKgXD7q2nTuvPaHXvnQeazyTg-3JNGq_SL5plQE0muuUT4lLQYZer4IiQd78VttEOCFFV_HgwHGNbSnCL3FQ/s320/Tom_Brown.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
I couldn't find much on Mr. Brown. Even Wiki-Pedia had just this tidbit, "is a former Major League Baseball pitcher for the Seattle Mariners (1978). He was originally signed by the Kansas City Royals in 1971 and signed with the Mariners in 1977. He graduated from Neville High School in Monroe." I clicked on a Google search link and my anti-virus came up saying it was blocking some harmful mal-ware. At that point I decided that I had taken enough of a risk trying to find out info on a guy who spent all of 6 games in the majors and did not record a decision. That basically sums up his career and his '78 season in Seattle. I found this photo on ebay while searching his minor league team. I airbrushed out the logo on his jersey and pasted a Mariner trident on his cap to make it look like he posed in his team issued undershirt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhze0kR_uAftF5ffjNO8bJWmGcDyRkVn9gnfGlTfBpSVWtca_sdLsnoKgrv3kuTY5PYRlLoK0OGbS7j0ZDO8UQO8P8jXiwwi06P2v_7gk4GPxsHylIdIUJ_Fx021nzZy4VWNf7kYAOxHvo/s1600/Tom_Paciorek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhze0kR_uAftF5ffjNO8bJWmGcDyRkVn9gnfGlTfBpSVWtca_sdLsnoKgrv3kuTY5PYRlLoK0OGbS7j0ZDO8UQO8P8jXiwwi06P2v_7gk4GPxsHylIdIUJ_Fx021nzZy4VWNf7kYAOxHvo/s320/Tom_Paciorek.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Paciorek spent 8 seasons chasing the major league dream as a part time player on the powerhouse Dodger teams of the early 70's and the also ran Braves teams in the latter 70's. He was so bad in Atlanta, the Braves actually released him after just 9 at bats in 1978. The M's picked him up and all he did was perform at an All-Star level for them during his 4 year stay off Puget Sound. During the 1981 strike season he was an AL All-Star and hit .326. The M's dealt him to the Chisox in the offseason. In 18 major leage seasons he would hit .282 with 86 homers. He was a good line drive hitter, who did not hit for enough power to occupy the corner infield and outfield spots that he was most comfortable playing. I used his '82 Donruss photo for this card.ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-39267019564299098332012-12-15T14:27:00.002-08:002012-12-15T14:27:54.032-08:00Brew Crew For You<br />
In 1978 the Brew Crew finally arrived and lifted themselves out of "Expansion Team" status. With pitching guru George Bamberger at the helm the team's normally poor pitching was elevated to average status. For most teams that would mean an average finish, but not for a team with a lineup as potent as Milwaukee's. Top to bottom the Brewers had the most consistent lineup in the AL. They led the league in runs scored and homers. The core group was all under 30, except for veterans Sal Bando and Larry Hisle. Bando, an Oakland A's castoff, provided a sound glove at third and smart veteran leadership. Hisle hit .290 with 34 homers and 115 RBI's. Centerfielder Gorman Thomas might have only hit .246, but he smashed 32 round trippers. Smooth fielding first baseman Cecil Cooper hit .312 and scooped up a lot of errant throws from rookie sensation Paul Molitor, who was not really your prototypical second baseman. The true star in the making was 22 year old veteran shortstop Robin Yount, who by 1978 was in his 5th major league campaign. Yankee killer Mike Caldwell (22-9, 2.36) finished second in the Cy Young balloting. At the age of 29 this crafty lefty finally came into his own. On most normal years his effort would have been enough to win, but in 1978 Ron Guidry posted a season for the ages. Funny how things work out like that. 22 year old Lary Sorensen (18-12, 3.21) looked to be one of the best #2 starters in the league. A pair of 25 year old lefties, Jerry Augustine and Bill Travers won 13 and 12 games respectively. Milwaukee's Achilles heel was their bullpen by committee. The righty half of their lefty/righty closer combo, Bill Castro was lights out (5-4, 1.81, 8sv), but his lefty counterpart Bob McClure (2-6, 3.74, 9sv) was shaky at best. Setup men Eduardo Rodriguez (5-5, 3.93) and Randy Stein (3-2, 5.33) will force the starters to hang on way past the point of fatigue.<br />
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In any case the Brewers were on the upswing, and fast. Still 93-69 was good enough to finish in 3rd place in the strong AL East, 6 1/2 games behind the Bronx Bombers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebAAgfwBZ-jZUfVayOunxL3qi4EunolMtgtbH27b4rHm1wJ2XOMR07sHh5O45VO_CRTEGl9Xv01aYKxUctAAKjaM4S2zPFT6ZLfwBPzY3Ap9DlmLNwfjHMNlykPq2Bz7EowpKV6BEC4Q/s1600/Andy_Etchebarren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebAAgfwBZ-jZUfVayOunxL3qi4EunolMtgtbH27b4rHm1wJ2XOMR07sHh5O45VO_CRTEGl9Xv01aYKxUctAAKjaM4S2zPFT6ZLfwBPzY3Ap9DlmLNwfjHMNlykPq2Bz7EowpKV6BEC4Q/s320/Andy_Etchebarren.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Purchased from the Angels in the offseason "Etch" was brought in to help share the catching duties with Buck Martinez and Charlie Moore. Injuries and old age limited the former 2 time All-Star to just 4 games and 6 at bats. After almost 950 games behind the plate it was time for him to call it quits and hang up the "tools of ignorance". Thank the elves (Chad & Erik) for finding this rare photo of "Etch" in a Brewers uniform. Looks to me like it was taken in Comiskey.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Ota0fHV7hIwf9oZIMkF2_cHLVX3VA2u5YiJmboxDcMFh0JrHrwUtXSUh0k2CdToLG1QGsxzQ6GJdryz7HyvX0TcLP75yJ9xZgcvb03iMAsuNkrnboTeL0MU0BMl7BnAThT2rzT3iunk/s1600/Andy_Replogle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Ota0fHV7hIwf9oZIMkF2_cHLVX3VA2u5YiJmboxDcMFh0JrHrwUtXSUh0k2CdToLG1QGsxzQ6GJdryz7HyvX0TcLP75yJ9xZgcvb03iMAsuNkrnboTeL0MU0BMl7BnAThT2rzT3iunk/s320/Andy_Replogle.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Error alert...Error alert. For some reason I made Andy's position a "C" instead of a "P". I promise to fix this in the final release. Certainly not beyond Topps to make a mistake like this :) In 18 starts this 24 year old righthander was 9-5, 3.92. Pretty darn good for a guy who was a sub .500 pitcher in the minors. The Brewers hoped that they had themselves a diamond in the rough, but unfortunately like so many false diamonds, under the pressure of a big league season his career turned to coal. Replogle was farmed out after a miserable start in '79 and never returned to the biggs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFW01YmHaiVDU3Tx3l8tE-vM4ukizhlqg0-GMBoneRLw9QEO3KEIy1gZby4v4Q0ZlcGrN09CIICPpBtm0TCvHgNlNqW7CZkC05_kYO6N5rarAap-GnIWvQsEB4h7oBvhTuG16rCelcwY/s1600/Ben_Oglivie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFW01YmHaiVDU3Tx3l8tE-vM4ukizhlqg0-GMBoneRLw9QEO3KEIy1gZby4v4Q0ZlcGrN09CIICPpBtm0TCvHgNlNqW7CZkC05_kYO6N5rarAap-GnIWvQsEB4h7oBvhTuG16rCelcwY/s320/Ben_Oglivie.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
On December 9, 1977: Traded by the Detroit Tigers to the Milwaukee Brewers for Rich Folkers and Jim Slaton. Oglivie bounced around in Boston and in Detroit for 8 seasons, but never really had any traction. After hitting 21 homers and batting .262 for the Tigers in 1977 he was dealt to the Brew Crew, probably because the Tigers thought that he had peaked and they wanted to get rid of him at a point where they could get the most value. Oglive made the Tigers pay for their mistake with 9 All-Star caliber seasons in Milwaukee, which included 1980 where he led the league with 41 homers. In 128 games in 1978 he hit .303 with 18 homers and 72 RBI's. Milwaukee found themselves their left fielder for the next 8 seasons. I found this great photo on a Brewer fan web site.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiACHxA1cohlo38JPs1acRu52V56wWKgutzgb3xTPiSCMsvNq07d7F19q2uwyIkaPI8kfcOjoQWo8KGo5Q_hA6qIDPlsTtsqgikjye6y-igyjyLpq0J3X1bJVd-J7ywSfKV9Fwlu14S0/s1600/Buck_Martinez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiACHxA1cohlo38JPs1acRu52V56wWKgutzgb3xTPiSCMsvNq07d7F19q2uwyIkaPI8kfcOjoQWo8KGo5Q_hA6qIDPlsTtsqgikjye6y-igyjyLpq0J3X1bJVd-J7ywSfKV9Fwlu14S0/s320/Buck_Martinez.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Known to most young people today as one of ESPN's lead baseball analysts, Buck was a career backup catcher who spent 17 seasons in the majors and hit just .217. Buck must have talked till he was blue in the face during all that extended time hanging out with the pitchers in the bullpen. Those "rap" sessions helped prepare him for his more lucrative second career on TV. In 1978 Buck caught 89 games and hit .219, which was right on par with his career numbers. He would spend 3 seasons in Milwaukee before moving on to Toronto.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LcYU0Yq7CEbotFZoNgsEiGXOmlY1PiX3gyo-zUgSt_EEVfy3skGM7-cYvvO_2i-kklHdBrbci9BZ3oiI9rjzGzElpmo-467-sJXq6ovDETjHgw-sDThOm7ceGYFMelqNZpdJxUd94ZI/s1600/Dave_May.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LcYU0Yq7CEbotFZoNgsEiGXOmlY1PiX3gyo-zUgSt_EEVfy3skGM7-cYvvO_2i-kklHdBrbci9BZ3oiI9rjzGzElpmo-467-sJXq6ovDETjHgw-sDThOm7ceGYFMelqNZpdJxUd94ZI/s320/Dave_May.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
During Milwaukee's first 5 seasons in the AL May was their offensive star. In 1973 he hit .303 with 25 homers and finished 8th in the MVP poling. That turned out to be his career year. His numbers declined the following season and he wound up in Atlanta, which was the NL's 1970's version of Cleveland. After bouncing to Texas for one season he wound up back in Milwaukee for what was supposed to be the 34 year old's last hurrah. In 39 games he hit a poultry .195 and had his contract sold to Pittsburgh in August, where he appeared in just 5 games and did nothing. Philly would pick him up in the off season, but he would not make their major league roster out of Spring Training. I found this great photo on ebay.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnn4z405cTdpfDZwdBbKMbjxyn9lGmmy9GBB3y42ZQz4zqboxuhSndq64geDNFNfCwOSevhGlu2AuSI8KUMI_00VmwPOaNB0E6Ndn9FIvPBit8Q4GvErPNQGNcxiWNyGg3NKhCRj2xDg/s1600/Dick_Davis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnn4z405cTdpfDZwdBbKMbjxyn9lGmmy9GBB3y42ZQz4zqboxuhSndq64geDNFNfCwOSevhGlu2AuSI8KUMI_00VmwPOaNB0E6Ndn9FIvPBit8Q4GvErPNQGNcxiWNyGg3NKhCRj2xDg/s320/Dick_Davis.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
For 4 seasons, starting in 1977, Davis was the Brewers starting DH. When a 23 year old becomes relegated to being a DH one can easily surmise that his glove was not gold, but lead. Davis was a solid professional hitter, but did not have the true power that is expected of a DH. In 1978 he hit .248 with 5 homers, which look more like the numbers of a middle infielder of the era. In 1981 he moved over to Philly where he hit .333 in just 45 games, because his glove was too dangerous to have roaming the outfield. A stint in Toronto and then Pittsburgh ended with little fanfare and he was out of baseball after the '82 season. I found this photo while doing a Google search.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcFt-dLeBtrR2DcIEcNhhrhjYm0lxB1gWGMOdTrgTcYaarE5e72iunNg2YjRd1FPV02eFEHuYRWyPEylcNmjxFNSzsd0zVkNehezxmaWy6BcJ0QYRPDdtqJxO7JmO8y7iiD9wR0sI2Jnw/s1600/Ed_Farmer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcFt-dLeBtrR2DcIEcNhhrhjYm0lxB1gWGMOdTrgTcYaarE5e72iunNg2YjRd1FPV02eFEHuYRWyPEylcNmjxFNSzsd0zVkNehezxmaWy6BcJ0QYRPDdtqJxO7JmO8y7iiD9wR0sI2Jnw/s320/Ed_Farmer.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Farmer had arm and control problems and even tinkered with the idea of becoming a middle infielder before he wound up with the Brewers in 1978. Milwaukee was his 5th club in 6 years. He pitched in just 3 games and went 1-0 with a 0.82 ERA. He would eventually hit his stride as a closer for the Chisox in the early 80's. No known photos could be found from his short stay in Milwaukee, so I did some airbrushing on this photo taken while he was with Chicago.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCPysj4Fhpfhmrfzxm8qSrN4GtufPcOA9juArqw4wIJth1lZnKoqzF4z-LW3fauVcPvwjyW7jeYNdw2aoKtnW_OKYE44UV5yWVvNoxaysEUIh6qzJuTXpGlZ0n0_GNMMB9V4xomfMO2s/s1600/Gorman_Thomas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCPysj4Fhpfhmrfzxm8qSrN4GtufPcOA9juArqw4wIJth1lZnKoqzF4z-LW3fauVcPvwjyW7jeYNdw2aoKtnW_OKYE44UV5yWVvNoxaysEUIh6qzJuTXpGlZ0n0_GNMMB9V4xomfMO2s/s320/Gorman_Thomas.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Stormin' Gorman Thomas was the Seattle Pilots #1 overall pick in 1969. In fact he was the Pilots only #1 pick ever, because the franchise moved to Milwaukee after just one season. In the early days Thomas bounced back and forth between the minors and the majors, which is why he didn't even net a Topps card in '78. This would turn out to be his breakout season as Thomas would start in Centerfield for the Brew Crew for the next 6 seasons. He would terrorize AL pitching with his long ball strength. He would also strike out a ton, which made him a much watch when he batted. I found this photo while searching Google.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrRnZ6ZMrFuh0ejdk7Nv8NzCcW9pE1bJYACWg2tgn09qDslnuFc70Dovxw2G_brXTCxQ1ty-PiQvc_xGf1BYtEPGI16E3CnYOEg9jufWEGyvjkCsJxVp27q3Gvhou8XSJYI4gkLF0eBI/s1600/Jeff_Yurak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrRnZ6ZMrFuh0ejdk7Nv8NzCcW9pE1bJYACWg2tgn09qDslnuFc70Dovxw2G_brXTCxQ1ty-PiQvc_xGf1BYtEPGI16E3CnYOEg9jufWEGyvjkCsJxVp27q3Gvhou8XSJYI4gkLF0eBI/s320/Jeff_Yurak.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Jeff Yurak's full MLB career consisted of a 0-5 in 5 games with the Brewers. A career minor leaguer who spent the lion share of his career in Double A. Pictured is his AA minor league card photo, which I thought was appropriate for a guy who didn't even have a full cup of coffee in the majors.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtefch9_sKTfVINTb17H9XXWmdKwpj_cK70Wnp-UNJxDWfzSocd6-rpvvyfRpLjCx3TkFa7s6wJtvR388uYkIZYDkywKbZ8ief-Wd8BjjHCi1i4LYvYl4ntBpb7SD9iZ64f-Kg0H1zKww/s1600/Jim_Gantner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtefch9_sKTfVINTb17H9XXWmdKwpj_cK70Wnp-UNJxDWfzSocd6-rpvvyfRpLjCx3TkFa7s6wJtvR388uYkIZYDkywKbZ8ief-Wd8BjjHCi1i4LYvYl4ntBpb7SD9iZ64f-Kg0H1zKww/s320/Jim_Gantner.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Gantner was a rookie second baseman who had this Molitor guy ahead of him. Once the Brewers settled on Molitor at 3rd or DH Gantner became their regular second base man for the next 13 seasons. Ganter, one of the most underrated players ever finished his career with a .277 average over 17 seasons, all in Milwaukee. He was the model of consistency. He was sneaky fast and stole almost 180 bases. He hit .216 in 97 AB's in '78 as a 25 year old without a full time position. It was the last time he would ever hit that low. I found this autographed photo on ebay. It was actually the first card I made for the 1978 set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDykAiWAwFbyhG9_wcgZisD-pJGYUY1276Xj8kEHuT-UXut7wQPqvwoLbzfxcB94DqHyFV828xlb3Ya1mjXUFEavE6s-7yafsTrj-lxL8Zr5QSR_Kqiwrwm7yEO5RuiZAB_ulJfWw_qc/s1600/Lenn_Sakata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDykAiWAwFbyhG9_wcgZisD-pJGYUY1276Xj8kEHuT-UXut7wQPqvwoLbzfxcB94DqHyFV828xlb3Ya1mjXUFEavE6s-7yafsTrj-lxL8Zr5QSR_Kqiwrwm7yEO5RuiZAB_ulJfWw_qc/s320/Lenn_Sakata.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
The good news is that Sakata's average went up 30 points from the previous season. The bad news is that he hit just .192 and played sparingly. In the three cups of Joe that he had in Milwaukee Sakata didn't see much action, so he was traded for basically no one and sent packing to Baltimore, where he carved out a nice career as a utility man. Photos of him in a Brewer uniform are scarce. I used his rookie panel card photo from 1980.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Hkh_1se_E0RWewiB8pKbyPtysaNjIogw4jPUUpyt8LE8XU_o9IfTkkNnc4LvWDk58Og77Sy3K4KBfWhcxpmTgfpk7sTdnBFuetjqDqHrGTU9vQ9Nsv9Cnp4MLfkowmFzFSQzbcNYHFc/s1600/Mark_Bomback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Hkh_1se_E0RWewiB8pKbyPtysaNjIogw4jPUUpyt8LE8XU_o9IfTkkNnc4LvWDk58Og77Sy3K4KBfWhcxpmTgfpk7sTdnBFuetjqDqHrGTU9vQ9Nsv9Cnp4MLfkowmFzFSQzbcNYHFc/s320/Mark_Bomback.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
Bomback would get into just 2 games for the Brew crew in '78. He was shelled in his one start, which is why he sports a 16.20 ERA over 1 2/3 innings of work. A 25th round selection of the Red Sox, he wound up being drafted by the Brewers out of the Boston chain. He had a solid 10 win season for the Mets in 1980 after being traded to Flushing for Dwight Bernard. The Mets didn't think he was all that good, so they dumped him on Toronto, where he posted 2 sub par seasons and was done with baseball. I airbrushed in the Brewer yellow on the Blue Jays white cap, then put the logo on top of it.<br />
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Topps saw fit to give Molitor a lousy BHNH panel rookie card. How were they to know that he would turn into a HOF'er with over 3,000 hits. In '78 he hit .273 and came in 2nd in the ROY voting. I used a great young photo of him that I found on the web for this rookie card that was never to be.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWQrFv_ZmFMGQN6h2InGnQy3PSzNBwZVcvPunALdVue1VuKGaVJ00QFBwW9IXl23D3S5kmDsj1_BL4a80ae3s5rMDPe5bNIa5_0U7pTQ82jGh38Toy_GwColXd-0sqfwtl5VfslHnhng/s1600/Randy_Stein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWQrFv_ZmFMGQN6h2InGnQy3PSzNBwZVcvPunALdVue1VuKGaVJ00QFBwW9IXl23D3S5kmDsj1_BL4a80ae3s5rMDPe5bNIa5_0U7pTQ82jGh38Toy_GwColXd-0sqfwtl5VfslHnhng/s320/Randy_Stein.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
The Brewers gave Stein every chance to be good, but he just wasn't. His 3-2, 5.33 record in 1978 was indicative of just how good he was going to get. He was dealt to Seattle and produced a similar season in 1979. Off to Chicago he went and again he performed terribly. In total he would spend 10 season in Triple A and would fall into that category of AAAA players.<br />
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Toronto traded Nordbrook to the Brewers for Tim Johnson in April. Neither team made out well in the deal. In 2 season he went 1 for 7 for the Brewers. Nordbrook bounced around 5 organizations in 6 seasons and then hit the minors when he couldn't catch on with the big club in Milwaukee. He finished his minor league career as a .238 hitter, which makes it amazing that he lasted so long. The elves sent me this rare autographed photo of him in a Brewer uni.<br />
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1st baseman who hit .133 with zero power do not last long in the majors. Muser had just that type of season in Milwaukee in '78 and was never heard from again. He did enjoy some solid years in a White Sox uniform prior to arriving in Milwaukee. This B&W photo was easy to colorize and was taken from a 25th anniversary card set issued by the Brewers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgotwRVI26V01-k0XO_ppuQsfx5YBPCBB72lYwzZT1VDaat_8S0ufWg8zq5NRUoDV1mAhxcDnxVm98JKcjxtqA6RCHr4RtApIZ-_mG_CnSb7clGHXBRAqU49v1-0eLyLfUMj3TFwSkxv5c/s1600/Willie_Mueller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgotwRVI26V01-k0XO_ppuQsfx5YBPCBB72lYwzZT1VDaat_8S0ufWg8zq5NRUoDV1mAhxcDnxVm98JKcjxtqA6RCHr4RtApIZ-_mG_CnSb7clGHXBRAqU49v1-0eLyLfUMj3TFwSkxv5c/s320/Willie_Mueller.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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No this isn't a photo of Epstein from Welcome Back Kotter. It's a rookie panel photo of Willie Mueller, who pitched in all of 5 games for the Brew Crew in '78. Mueller's 1-0, 6.39 record was nothing to write home about, so he was send packing to Triple A. He would return for 1 final shot, which equaled 1 game in 1981. After 2 more horrible seasons in the minors he was finished.</div>
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-6541183110444840662012-12-13T13:37:00.000-08:002012-12-13T13:37:00.049-08:00Forgotten A'sA few more obscure or forgotten A's from their '78 season of horrors were found and added. Sadly, many of these players do not have photos posted anywhere or photos in decent condition. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that someone can find a better photo for me to update Woodard, Skaggs and Meyer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSa2GSLxzfdafz4GAlh4AgzGCe-rJpWZhXadE2coS29FsW6NrphDMAeXJKD_KaiRl9qnMPhbigBB6AZYjFCM0YzoyeldicQ-sAoc0bfZwk6HUrIFoabM-wM_nI81Tr-IYEVkMK5sKa9s8/s1600/Darrell_Woodard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSa2GSLxzfdafz4GAlh4AgzGCe-rJpWZhXadE2coS29FsW6NrphDMAeXJKD_KaiRl9qnMPhbigBB6AZYjFCM0YzoyeldicQ-sAoc0bfZwk6HUrIFoabM-wM_nI81Tr-IYEVkMK5sKa9s8/s1600/Darrell_Woodard.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
Found this out of focus shot from a minor league collection. Quality was so bad it was near impossible to add A's colors.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mhkBvoKKbLanAvB-7Ed3QQuTCmGRZPDH7A-ukv9RP6bVv2C7viDbBc-aV6p6GAKp9FV6iF-rSYSxhKGEHbeVuJkfSXyuLPcAPBKbpGLXxvycByjP5Dtl1aXXHy5RURewMku1pPK3zw4/s1600/Gary_Alexander.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mhkBvoKKbLanAvB-7Ed3QQuTCmGRZPDH7A-ukv9RP6bVv2C7viDbBc-aV6p6GAKp9FV6iF-rSYSxhKGEHbeVuJkfSXyuLPcAPBKbpGLXxvycByjP5Dtl1aXXHy5RURewMku1pPK3zw4/s1600/Gary_Alexander.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Came over from the Giants and was traded right after he was featured on the cover of the Sporting News (this photo).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZunV30u93ylh4qO2bvT6y3EKp5p03pqhZ4GaBQceLSqBzXDMy8JweTF4n8qyZ1NS7xbFolOdTFCHSbwXbeRlWAOUM0PwLkNPjUta9a3AL2BjDxZyCGSKhVIQOFakdcs0pQe3T19l4JR4/s1600/Mike_Adams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZunV30u93ylh4qO2bvT6y3EKp5p03pqhZ4GaBQceLSqBzXDMy8JweTF4n8qyZ1NS7xbFolOdTFCHSbwXbeRlWAOUM0PwLkNPjUta9a3AL2BjDxZyCGSKhVIQOFakdcs0pQe3T19l4JR4/s1600/Mike_Adams.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Had a stint in Minnesota and Chicago but never really broke through. I couldn't find a photo of him with Oakland, so I did a lot of customization on his 1974 Twins card, which included a "Hat Transplant"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcI33cyrbsNG0K9YbBnjwYSq9NrVVcdAyCMn3r-AUkNoJg55z0NZmprtOqoFTtUVtBKxTadp5us6G8jeIrL-lNbz3wQ_JQ6VL1o9XD2-7x4jjhjhqKI1sfpoql8moUwAiHTEKwpUKtrk/s1600/Scott_Meyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcI33cyrbsNG0K9YbBnjwYSq9NrVVcdAyCMn3r-AUkNoJg55z0NZmprtOqoFTtUVtBKxTadp5us6G8jeIrL-lNbz3wQ_JQ6VL1o9XD2-7x4jjhjhqKI1sfpoql8moUwAiHTEKwpUKtrk/s1600/Scott_Meyer.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Not too many good photos of backup minor league catchers<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxWKEkounZXXYHE2tKn-HN08i1jJoHz17A2wBuUOKZG7DoVb9dUIuH4Ef_PackFVjk14kWCAwDLzkzwj3moZJ_TWGM0D6IiukuIiXrR7A0_n7T3u26tighuD99Xtr1YJzMxvaVv4kGok/s1600/Steve_Staggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxWKEkounZXXYHE2tKn-HN08i1jJoHz17A2wBuUOKZG7DoVb9dUIuH4Ef_PackFVjk14kWCAwDLzkzwj3moZJ_TWGM0D6IiukuIiXrR7A0_n7T3u26tighuD99Xtr1YJzMxvaVv4kGok/s1600/Steve_Staggs.jpg" /></a></div>
This grainy B&W shot was all that I could find for this career minor league utility man.ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-12179966415098173912012-12-13T13:28:00.002-08:002012-12-13T13:28:24.475-08:00Straight A's...NOT<div style="text-align: justify;">
Unless you followed baseball in the 1970's you just can't have an appreciation or lack there of for what Charlie Finley did to his dynasty team. At the beginning of the decade he assemble himself a team of young superstars who battled opponents on the field and themselves off the field. From 1971-1975 they won 5 straight AL West Titles and 3 Straight World Championships. While the A's dominated on the field, they struggled mightily at the gate. Once free agency hit Finley realized that he couldn't keep everyone, so he went radical and decided to keep no one. By 1978 the A's gaudy uniforms were the only connection to the teams from just a few years back. The A's resembled an expansion team sporting has been's, never was-es and young players trying to find their way. Their feeble attendance at the Oakland Coliseum dropped to the point where they started announcing fans instead of the players (just kidding, but not by a lot). At 69-93 the A's finished 6th, one slot out of the basement, which they occupied the previous season.</div>
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Oakland's offensive was quite offensive to anyone who was forced to watch it. They finished dead last in batting (.245) and 10th in homers, which translates to very little runs. That type of output puts a lot of pressure on a good pitching staff. Oakland's staff was average. Their won loss records look worse than their actual performance. They gave up a lot of runs, but not many earner runs, which translates to a lot of bad fielding behind them.</div>
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<b>Key players: </b> Mitchell Page (17) and Dave Revering (16) led the team in homers. Not good when your home run leaders can't crack the 20 homer plateau. Miguel Dilone in just 258 at bats hit a poor .229, but when he got on base he was off to the races with 50 stolen bases. Five Athletics in all had double figures in steals. The trouble was they just couldn't steal first.</div>
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<b>Key pitchers:</b> The bullpen troika of Bob Lacey (8-9, 3.01), Dave Heaverlo (3-6, 3.25, 10sv) and Elias Sosa (8-2, 2.64, 14sv) were the strength of the staff. 21 year old John Henry Johnson (11-10, 3.39) was the only starter with a winning record. Rookie Matt Keough (8-15, 3.24) was a hard luck loser, who could have had a reverse record on a better team.</div>
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Due to the state of transition that the franchise was in Topps had a hard time choosing which young players should receive a card and which should not. Because of that challenge and the numerous trades made during the season I needed to make 29 new cards to round out the team set. A lot of these players were quite obscure, so this required a lot of sleuth work to track down pictures. Most of those pictures required colorization as well as airbrushing. This was definitely a fun team to work on ! Erik and Chad discovered early on just how tough it would be to track down the photos, so they defaulted to using '79 or '80 Topps cards. For the most part I stuck with what they had unless I thought I could find some better shots.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHxDgXcf8zN1DR_NAl0FzaUGe_m6TZwzInj6yqop_SNFfTXHhnCwdFZQ3LKfXQLyltA9EHT4-NUEZetFNyXxrvBL1XDXguJzCb-ZKSDmE_JSm0q72Gd_zG8riCadlUoPcMRSfovj-65Yw/s1600/Alan_Wirth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHxDgXcf8zN1DR_NAl0FzaUGe_m6TZwzInj6yqop_SNFfTXHhnCwdFZQ3LKfXQLyltA9EHT4-NUEZetFNyXxrvBL1XDXguJzCb-ZKSDmE_JSm0q72Gd_zG8riCadlUoPcMRSfovj-65Yw/s320/Alan_Wirth.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
21 year old Alan Wirth went 5-6 with a 3.43 ERA in 14 starts. A promising start to what would turn out to be a short career. Wirth would pitch spearingly with the A's over the next 2 season and not perform well. He would get sent down to Triple A and pitch just as bad if not worse. By 1982, at the age of 25, he was cut by Detroit's Evansville affiliate. It was nearly impossible to find a photo of Wirth. I finally found a B&W shot, which I colorized and superimposed on top of a shot of the Oakland Coliseum.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDGkX7rexJ4V-JnMU0sjqQBq5HbS-SEgpemQYs_Uqo3GGqnpLxKbRa7P4fO1086UINR_LT3cOVXKJzhueasgo2xME-CU8MtT1lumMM_Na3fg1bPlrDHLsLy5OMQMVGIJNblU4HEyyC1I/s1600/Bruce_Robinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDGkX7rexJ4V-JnMU0sjqQBq5HbS-SEgpemQYs_Uqo3GGqnpLxKbRa7P4fO1086UINR_LT3cOVXKJzhueasgo2xME-CU8MtT1lumMM_Na3fg1bPlrDHLsLy5OMQMVGIJNblU4HEyyC1I/s320/Bruce_Robinson.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Robinson was in the midst of his best offensive season in the minors (.299), when he was called up by the big club. In 28 games he hit .250 with basically no pop and was average behind the plate. In the offseason he was sold to the Yankees where he got another cup of coffee in the biggs before finally being farmed out. The picture that I have here was actually posted by Robinson on his own site. It was taken right after he was drafted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUIuzoMs7mclYa2LDbkJiPN8fDrZey0Bfsta7SEsdb1DPszOA5q8KwPUs559ZwVvSc62X9hN5tvjrZ9-HbGCX5X903inoUwZ2yHl9_fz6pacCuP6CnpIOTrX_G_UmFmIzOmxsCzqC430/s1600/Craig_Minetto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUIuzoMs7mclYa2LDbkJiPN8fDrZey0Bfsta7SEsdb1DPszOA5q8KwPUs559ZwVvSc62X9hN5tvjrZ9-HbGCX5X903inoUwZ2yHl9_fz6pacCuP6CnpIOTrX_G_UmFmIzOmxsCzqC430/s320/Craig_Minetto.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Lefty Craigh Minetto pitched in just 4 games and spent 12 innings on the hill. He must have impressed the A's hierarchy in this limited action, because he was given a spot in the rotation the following year. His 1-5, 5.55 record in 1979 facilitated his return to the minors. He would bounce back and forth over the next two years before being released in 1981. He would spend the next 3 seasons in AAA impressing no one before he decided to hang it up. I used his '81 card for this card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iq6bg10lJ6UEX8jW4meor5z0MCtNDiBXZLnrTVTBoMFHJaJQB5KLS0Osdic1zybycj1FazI2dJrqndxDQgM6zuRVpqxwsVfSoGTa1gbU-GO4ws-7zGP3n0aMrIGaTXZX07XErgQHB_M/s1600/Dave_Heaverlo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iq6bg10lJ6UEX8jW4meor5z0MCtNDiBXZLnrTVTBoMFHJaJQB5KLS0Osdic1zybycj1FazI2dJrqndxDQgM6zuRVpqxwsVfSoGTa1gbU-GO4ws-7zGP3n0aMrIGaTXZX07XErgQHB_M/s320/Dave_Heaverlo.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Heaverlo was one tough dude who wasn't afraid to do make a statement. When everyone in the late 70's grew their hair out, he went Michael Jordan (even before there was a Michael Jordan) and shaved his head. You need to be a tough and imposing guy when you pitch out of a 6th place team's bullpen. Heaverlo recorded double digit saves that year and had a fine 7 year career that started in San Fran and ended up across the bay in Oakland. He arrived in Oakland as part of the Vida Blue deal during the offseason. Heaverlo never started a game in the majors. This card was made with his '79 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7ag_Vy0w-bAzouQ_Mv1RDKQoTqFnqVlzufg1Fabih0JbJxr5wscNfzqEoH92V_By7SRXx7WM8iI_TiMzcSD0vlkIq30SbeWPcyj9KCwTbvq6sn2iYQ_KzSnk8Sr4-luUWd8AvcPaEbA/s1600/Dave_Revering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7ag_Vy0w-bAzouQ_Mv1RDKQoTqFnqVlzufg1Fabih0JbJxr5wscNfzqEoH92V_By7SRXx7WM8iI_TiMzcSD0vlkIq30SbeWPcyj9KCwTbvq6sn2iYQ_KzSnk8Sr4-luUWd8AvcPaEbA/s320/Dave_Revering.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Originally acquired from he Reds in exchange for Vida Blue. When Bowie Kuhn cancelled the deal "in the best interest of baseball" the A's send Doug Bair to the Reds and still got Revering who performed well for the lowly A's in 3+ years of service. In 1981 he was dealt to the Yankees for Jim Spencer and became a backup, which really hurt his confidence as evidenced by his average dropping from the .290 to the low .220's. Over the next few years he would be trapped in the roll of career backup and eventually he would exit baseball when he was optioned to triple A. In 1978 as a 25 year old rookie he hit .278 with 16 homers. The photo used for this card came from a team issued set from 1980.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwvknRyhek3ks4GRAvChGl1_OIO_6NHQSqZc9eKDBqI7arsn94RxXSyv8Mf1CLnUOHURD4YxYkub9xIOhrvBvqY20ErKxWb-JHl9LDZ4zDOsmdD8nr55nKtF-nsb4zc1BNei3nCpAoDI/s1600/Dell_Alston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwvknRyhek3ks4GRAvChGl1_OIO_6NHQSqZc9eKDBqI7arsn94RxXSyv8Mf1CLnUOHURD4YxYkub9xIOhrvBvqY20ErKxWb-JHl9LDZ4zDOsmdD8nr55nKtF-nsb4zc1BNei3nCpAoDI/s320/Dell_Alston.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Wendell "Dell" Alston burst on the scene with his hometown Yankees in 1977 by getting a hit in his first at bat. He would hit .325 for the World Champs in 40 at bats. The following season he was sent to the A's for Gary Thomasson and proceeded to hit .208. Even with their lack of talent on the major league level the A's still weren't impressed and gave Dell his outright release. He would sign with the Indians and hit .290 in 1979, but then slump back to the low .200's before being released for good. I used his '79 card photo for this card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_VLrj5U0A-lrHG9NbPufLdShtztCLzB_5OL8Afta8n_vYNaZGNA0oXW361U1y0ALYDbouGd41kVDtWgCX6fpjBs56CeuBQq2et9h1bLwP2sUy5d6lEHs7RYQ04xTTuggsOjMVoiJFog/s1600/Dwayne_Murphy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_VLrj5U0A-lrHG9NbPufLdShtztCLzB_5OL8Afta8n_vYNaZGNA0oXW361U1y0ALYDbouGd41kVDtWgCX6fpjBs56CeuBQq2et9h1bLwP2sUy5d6lEHs7RYQ04xTTuggsOjMVoiJFog/s320/Dwayne_Murphy.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Dwayne hit just .192 in 52 at bats as a rookie 5th outfielder. In 2 years (1981) he would win the first of his 6 consecutive gold gloves. In total he would spend 10 of his 12 seasons in Oakland patrolling the huge cavernous oufield of the Oakland Coliseum. you could pencil him in for 10-15 homers each year. in 1982 he hit 27 homers and in 84 he hit 33. The photo for this card came from a team issue card set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB64o35YuEjgNr-uxaHBurLr6kiSV6zPgBWJj_Iy3e6Cu_D_jMKB-PMFotSko52JDbPz6Rigd1R4p-F4q53DKZpETbhFxoslvvZIxDA1x1MAXuye0gTr7UKZ7heT6FUyU5TmNvJTiChu8/s1600/Elias_Sosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB64o35YuEjgNr-uxaHBurLr6kiSV6zPgBWJj_Iy3e6Cu_D_jMKB-PMFotSko52JDbPz6Rigd1R4p-F4q53DKZpETbhFxoslvvZIxDA1x1MAXuye0gTr7UKZ7heT6FUyU5TmNvJTiChu8/s320/Elias_Sosa.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
On April 4, 1978<b> </b>Sosa was traded by the <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/PIT/1978.shtml">Pittsburgh Pirates</a> with a player to be named later and <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dilonmi01.shtml">Miguel Dilone</a> to the <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/OAK/1978.shtml">Oakland Athletics</a> for <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sanguma01.shtml">Manny Sanguillen</a>. The <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/PIT/1978.shtml">Pittsburgh Pirates</a> sent <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/edwarmi01.shtml">Mike Edwards</a> (April 7, 1978) to the <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/OAK/1978.shtml">Oakland Athletics</a> to complete the trade. What the A's thought they were getting was a journeyman bullpen veteran. What they actually got was their 1978 closer. Sosa logged 114 innings and recorded 14 saves. He posted an impressive 8-2, 2.64 record for this poor 6th place team. He was granted free agency at the end of the season and signed with the Expos to become their closer. Interestingly Sosa is a footnote in World Series history having given up Reggie Jackson's 3rd consecutive homer in game 6 of the '77 Fall Classic. In 12 major league seasons he would pitch for 8 different franchises. This card was created from his 1979 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiNcUCuxRRgTc2O9QRuinBN5IhR_1vVubYZ5V-0K3jzXY8wVRj8F51wss9ko3W74-omBF1p6fbZC1uLxcRLBZzg-fODB85WFKQ22rjC1jRBrggsAModXlYqeyh9KH-ZNaQKAhTohLYVQQ/s1600/Gary_Thomasson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiNcUCuxRRgTc2O9QRuinBN5IhR_1vVubYZ5V-0K3jzXY8wVRj8F51wss9ko3W74-omBF1p6fbZC1uLxcRLBZzg-fODB85WFKQ22rjC1jRBrggsAModXlYqeyh9KH-ZNaQKAhTohLYVQQ/s320/Gary_Thomasson.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
After 6 seasons playing across the bay in San Fran Thomasson was dealt to the A's as part of the Vida Blue blockbuster deal. His time in Oakland was short and not very sweet. In 47 games he hit .201 with 5 homers. In June he was traded to the Yankees for Dell Alston and Mickey Klutts. In 55 games in New York as their 4th outfielder / defensive replacement he would hit .276. He would also catch the final out of the 1978 World Series. In 1 season he would go from almost worst to first. Because of his short time in Oakland it is impossible to find a picture of him in an A's uniform. I took a photo of him in a Yankee road uniform and did some funky color changing. I hate this updated card, which looks on a par with the crap that Topps would airbrush. I'm hoping that somehow by accident I might stumble upon an A's photo of him and update this monstrosity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mWXXyplA2VoFEr70p1dIUzgA3YkqKbuM7FkOegr2VfP_d0jDE-ZrxzsKT-r7DCTNxd7M7hF37DOQuICdmwLN0FLDwW6ksj3_wPoPQyxmUbP4tw6ifRId7_RJMYSNA_E9YOiYuGg9V1g/s1600/Glenn_Burke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mWXXyplA2VoFEr70p1dIUzgA3YkqKbuM7FkOegr2VfP_d0jDE-ZrxzsKT-r7DCTNxd7M7hF37DOQuICdmwLN0FLDwW6ksj3_wPoPQyxmUbP4tw6ifRId7_RJMYSNA_E9YOiYuGg9V1g/s320/Glenn_Burke.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Burke arrived in Oakland on May 17 in exchange for Bill North. Prior to the trade he was the Dodgers 5th outfielder and a key defensive replacement. Never much with the stick, Burke continued to not impress after arriving in Oakland. In 200 AB's he hit just .235 with 1 homer. He would hit just .213 in 1979. In 1980 he was optioned back to triple A where he hit .226 in 25 games before being released. Burke's life outside of baseball was tragic. He would die in his early 40's of AIDS. Years of heavy drug use started after he was run out of baseball due to his homosexual lifestyle. Burke claimed, "Prejudice ran me out of baseball". Others say his .237 career average was the reason. In either case his life ended in tragedy. For this card I used his 1979 card. I found it interesting that he still had a Dodger undershirt on for this picture.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_H8dcdB15lWjIccVbzC2-bQCdmlHurMWtKWgUtp4_ahaB6Vz-hfTF1tKVMxbiHqa7mQ-l7zAmi3Z-BnBW5m_7NvBWyuZvBbTuTZ6RoEpGAJUSbQs9_RET-GXXDZgyupfGD3M_R1tpJQ/s1600/Jim_Essian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_H8dcdB15lWjIccVbzC2-bQCdmlHurMWtKWgUtp4_ahaB6Vz-hfTF1tKVMxbiHqa7mQ-l7zAmi3Z-BnBW5m_7NvBWyuZvBbTuTZ6RoEpGAJUSbQs9_RET-GXXDZgyupfGD3M_R1tpJQ/s320/Jim_Essian.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Essian was one of those career backup catchers who always looked good until he played for an extended period of time. In 1978 he was afforded the starting catcher's position and hit just .223. After that season he would return to his backup role and do fine. Essian would hit .244 in major league campaigns and spend 4 years in Oakland during 2 tours of duty. This card was created with his 1979 card photo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfMtRYOVwTC43nigzKjmIoJk5qxZDgKoLj9tqG7ksiOBxDbFaTI2qdz1nUr-01EspIY3bUz4Hn-Ihe49V2qSH6GOq4id2FZ7uR8ZKQMZCsqzDTNhQEgH25scsU3wXee-HS6EKQ121BPI/s1600/Joe_Wallis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfMtRYOVwTC43nigzKjmIoJk5qxZDgKoLj9tqG7ksiOBxDbFaTI2qdz1nUr-01EspIY3bUz4Hn-Ihe49V2qSH6GOq4id2FZ7uR8ZKQMZCsqzDTNhQEgH25scsU3wXee-HS6EKQ121BPI/s320/Joe_Wallis.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Joe "Tarzan" Wallis' claim to fame came in 1975 when he was with the Cubs. With 2 out in the 9th inning he broke up Tom Seaver's bid for a no hitter. His other claim to fame was the fact that he was traded twice in the same day, which is how he wound up in Oakland. Given the starting Centerfield job he hit just .237 with 5 homers. After hitting .141 the following season he was cut.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarZrzNLET_XBDpMQ8PQZ68SOg6tOACy6UebYKd18EqC5zZ5AqvPapAEdRJR0qin7db_npUKAXRsE4N9oXylxq-CX6JaFgsppdbvLHmDrbuA1OcYJBtF-cy-A1Cx_1R2oRHHLg5Ay0wI8/s1600/John+Henry_Johnson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarZrzNLET_XBDpMQ8PQZ68SOg6tOACy6UebYKd18EqC5zZ5AqvPapAEdRJR0qin7db_npUKAXRsE4N9oXylxq-CX6JaFgsppdbvLHmDrbuA1OcYJBtF-cy-A1Cx_1R2oRHHLg5Ay0wI8/s320/John+Henry_Johnson.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Another key component in the Vida Blue deal, Johnson would turn out to be the only Oakland starter in 1978 to post a winning record (11-10, 3.39). Unfortunately for him that would be his best season. Johnson would be dealt to the Rangers in the middle of the 79 season for Dave Chalk and Mike Heath. He would battle with arm trouble and health in Texas, Boston and Milwaukee where he missed 2 full seasons. This card photo came from his 1979 Hostess card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAydWo38KzuvEsS51CIarwUxYR6LCNCPg1zq1qtCRXz2kCM35cAJifNmBI3Fyzh4WzjMb02ZpDyM-qINo3yVf8fXwQ435JO2RMOWqERwA9mE3T_JJ2svju-7UQ5YI2MaAmuT72DBF1Tw/s1600/Larry_Murray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAydWo38KzuvEsS51CIarwUxYR6LCNCPg1zq1qtCRXz2kCM35cAJifNmBI3Fyzh4WzjMb02ZpDyM-qINo3yVf8fXwQ435JO2RMOWqERwA9mE3T_JJ2svju-7UQ5YI2MaAmuT72DBF1Tw/s320/Larry_Murray.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Murray was a speed merchant who could not find a way to negotiate a regular trip to 1st base. Acquired in 1977 from the Yankees he spent most of his time as a pinch runner / spare outfielder. In 1978 he was given a shot to be a full time outfielder, but he once again his below .200. Even more surprising was the fact that he couldn't steal bases at better than a 50% clip. The A's quickly surmised that he wasn't going to be in their future plans and sent him back to Ogden (AAA), where he finished out his career in 1980. I used an airbrushed version of his 1980 card for this one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYeLD_INIUWTM6Bvk5ShQVPIVq5AaSwwz6AVCtDf48xoG6LumGwH8dxwoFsnWPvGc3oAZIAUTNdsmc7c1o3j2KRusJNd3Nav15IH1RJednWERYXjNChT1PWNnTNsN3XP4Ok4PLgn7H-c/s1600/Mario_Guerrero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYeLD_INIUWTM6Bvk5ShQVPIVq5AaSwwz6AVCtDf48xoG6LumGwH8dxwoFsnWPvGc3oAZIAUTNdsmc7c1o3j2KRusJNd3Nav15IH1RJednWERYXjNChT1PWNnTNsN3XP4Ok4PLgn7H-c/s320/Mario_Guerrero.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
The 28 year old Guerrero hit .275 for the A's in 1978 after spending the previous 5 seasons as a part time utility player for 3 other franchises. Things looked good for him, but unfortunately 1978 would be his one season in the sun. The following 2 years he would hit just .229 and .239 respectively and wind up being shipped to Seattle, where he was cut in Spring Training of 1981. In total he spent 8 seasons in the bigs and hit .257. One interesting footnote: He became a scout in his native Dominican Republic and discovered Raul Mondesi. When he wasn't compensated accordingly he sued Mondesi for 1% of his salary. He eventually settled for almost $650,000, which was probably more than he ever made on the playing field. THis card was created from his 1979 Hostess card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmPwS36d-pUygRZaCSVq6SmJh6mnnILwGM20P_zEzMG-EMgvmhdDUDosWPRx2PoAP_AzimT3A1SDuIB4B6ldc3odS6esAo8r-zCmW3Yeo5bfCSqYajNoqL9nz_9Kio8s3_RRufqDIYuE/s1600/Mark_Budaska.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmPwS36d-pUygRZaCSVq6SmJh6mnnILwGM20P_zEzMG-EMgvmhdDUDosWPRx2PoAP_AzimT3A1SDuIB4B6ldc3odS6esAo8r-zCmW3Yeo5bfCSqYajNoqL9nz_9Kio8s3_RRufqDIYuE/s320/Mark_Budaska.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
This corner outfielder prospect went 1 for 4 for the A's in 1978. He would spend the next 2 seasons at triple A before getting his final shot in 1981, where he batted .156 in 32 at bats. This photo came off a rookie panel card photo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbrZrAzgbOsdxayui3mx75DZbkAbdervaKWDhJ8dVBsEmVZd63KPyyMiNCV9LFC3mHmKhwRNWuk9N1uaCNNKAfz_DzmnPghBAbu-G4eSihyphenhyphenodM8enUYfYE6ilQb1kTXLc04gw4CKqzKY/s1600/Matt_Keough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbrZrAzgbOsdxayui3mx75DZbkAbdervaKWDhJ8dVBsEmVZd63KPyyMiNCV9LFC3mHmKhwRNWuk9N1uaCNNKAfz_DzmnPghBAbu-G4eSihyphenhyphenodM8enUYfYE6ilQb1kTXLc04gw4CKqzKY/s320/Matt_Keough.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Keough was a young star on the rise. He was a victim of lack of support, both offensively and defensively as evidenced by his 8-15, 3.24 record. Anyone who posts a 3.24 ERA in 197 innings should have won at least 15 or 16 games. Keough almost played himself out of baseball by going 2-17, 5.04 in 1979. Under Billy Martin in 1980 he turned it around and became a front line starter. Unfortunately he was overused, like many of Billy's pitchers, and by 1982 he developed arm trouble and never seemed to get it back. The 250 innings he logged as a 24 year old plus the 40 complete games logged in a 3 year period damaged him.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxYu1ZzNj00KN7A6bRWS_nMqa9aXI0A7JBOI_lvy_FxDw6IbyL1J08vIXnB7awsDCpoL_ceSSeObN3DWMikSVkJy6_Syht_JcmeZnwZCvGnA9vkby0tU1xJ9otNEXrLBMlAOY5FNFCNg/s1600/Miguel_Dilone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxYu1ZzNj00KN7A6bRWS_nMqa9aXI0A7JBOI_lvy_FxDw6IbyL1J08vIXnB7awsDCpoL_ceSSeObN3DWMikSVkJy6_Syht_JcmeZnwZCvGnA9vkby0tU1xJ9otNEXrLBMlAOY5FNFCNg/s320/Miguel_Dilone.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Dilone hit .229 in 258 at bats in 1979, which was well below the expectations for an outfielding prospect. However he stole 50 bases with his speed to burn. Oakland needed to figure out a way to get him on base other than as a pinch runner. The couldn't, so they sold his contract to the Cubs, who did the same a year later sending him to Cleveland. In 1980 he would have a huge breakout season hitting .341 with 61 stolen bases in over 500 AB's. He would hit .290 during the strike season and it looked like he arrived as the next Lou Brock. Sadly those 2 seasons were the peak of his career. After 1982 he went into a slump that saw him out of baseball at the ripe old age of 30. He had a unique "swing and run" batting style that was designed to take full advantage of his devastating speed. I used his 1979 card photo for this one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNrn7oqE5hM3jN2kmC0jAAlGuBhvkI9nl9IrpQaJ-QyBNXBtm_HWaHHxyDYClDGMyFZN3VVryP9MPcM1UbA7581OhEjIKuGad5OvCNsB-mEmGdxkRWOUYi2B2gua-wzui9igAcODN6xc/s1600/Mike_Edwards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNrn7oqE5hM3jN2kmC0jAAlGuBhvkI9nl9IrpQaJ-QyBNXBtm_HWaHHxyDYClDGMyFZN3VVryP9MPcM1UbA7581OhEjIKuGad5OvCNsB-mEmGdxkRWOUYi2B2gua-wzui9igAcODN6xc/s320/Mike_Edwards.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Marshall Edwards' twin brother was a speedy middle infielder, who never had a high success rate for stealing bases. He hit .273 as the A's starting second baseman in 1978. He started again in 1979 and dipped 40 points in his average. He stagnated the following year and lost his job. He would move on and spend the next 5 seasons playing in the Mexican and Japanese leagues.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiva3zHul-Z6rFzLS1ut1_aNU1gbu3sIlZuysywLh3Cg9vkQ7z0LwbD-SUtRmmKibOUH6qGZkKhQvDISV7q_1MzGzca-DgbF7O8xfVB1ETxoteGq5vfBUHvl2qCesv0bXKnREIJBTjgVPA/s1600/Mike_Morgan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiva3zHul-Z6rFzLS1ut1_aNU1gbu3sIlZuysywLh3Cg9vkQ7z0LwbD-SUtRmmKibOUH6qGZkKhQvDISV7q_1MzGzca-DgbF7O8xfVB1ETxoteGq5vfBUHvl2qCesv0bXKnREIJBTjgVPA/s320/Mike_Morgan.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
The 18 year old Morgan (0-3, 7.30) was rushed to the big leagues and used as cannon fodder. The following year he went 2-10, 5.94 and was benevolently returned to the minors. Eventually he was dealt to the Yankees and had limited if no success there. So started a string that saw him cobble out a 22 year MLB career that spanned 12 different franchises. His best season, 1993 for the Cubs, saw him win 16 games with a 2.55 ERA in 34 starts. Morgan was a hyped rookie who never really reached his anticipated potential. He became a serviceable veteran pitcher who moved around a lot, but pitched until 2002, when he retired at the age of 42. I could not find any shots of him in an Oakland uniform, so I took a photo of him with the Cubs and did some extensive airbrushing and cropping to give him an Oakland card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHQsrlLrou1wUKa7gMTczQnOpD6g2PkfDT31gJ06yLdHFNIz1IoKDU6qkSdhS4mkwKClHPzyuPc7uy5U_PW-JKd5DZFNdVLGs4K47u0gOEVQ5K_D8Uxv2Q4oRhBjlWONxK1qgBBUlkc8/s1600/Pete_Broberg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHQsrlLrou1wUKa7gMTczQnOpD6g2PkfDT31gJ06yLdHFNIz1IoKDU6qkSdhS4mkwKClHPzyuPc7uy5U_PW-JKd5DZFNdVLGs4K47u0gOEVQ5K_D8Uxv2Q4oRhBjlWONxK1qgBBUlkc8/s320/Pete_Broberg.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Broberg, who had electric stuff, was originally a #1 overall pick by the A's in 1968. Instead of signing with the A's he elected to go to college and was an all Ivy league standout. 4 years later the Senators drafted him with the overall #2 pick. He was rushed to the majors in 1971 to help the struggling Senators at the gate. Without the benefit of minor league experience Broberg still managed to have a respectable season. When the franchise moved to Texas he went along with them, but struggled mightily Stops in Milwaukee and Chicago did not cure him of his wildness and lack of experience. 1978 would be his last shot in the majors. Broberg would post a respectable 10-12, 4.62 record for the lowly A's. He was granted free agency at the end of the season and signed with the Dodgers who cut him in Spring Training. I used his '79 card shot for this card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMFPAYJ4BCnVtIs9K6F9jVEnjblI6NI4S2lmA78XNPI2ZnuxpNlJDHjO0sIQ4tcDky1q4yaZjJ3TkOgLduBoqbwJzMHEpi2mjMPBnkp88bgDCWssLM42Tsc_oin7_F1bQ-odBBRE4uzI/s1600/Rico_Carty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMFPAYJ4BCnVtIs9K6F9jVEnjblI6NI4S2lmA78XNPI2ZnuxpNlJDHjO0sIQ4tcDky1q4yaZjJ3TkOgLduBoqbwJzMHEpi2mjMPBnkp88bgDCWssLM42Tsc_oin7_F1bQ-odBBRE4uzI/s320/Rico_Carty.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Carty previously played in 8 games for the A's in 1973 during their pennant stretch run. He didn't qualify for their post season roster. By the time he was dealt for Willie Horton, in 1978, he was on his last legs. Still he was able to put together a great 6 weeks with the bat and hit .277 with 11 homers in just 41 games. At the end of the season his contract was purchased back by Toronto, where he would spend the final year of solid career with the stick (.299).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTy2UHRV6cVgyO6lpdpLc7gW4_0irvZEZylw8wXS83jdubONrQdDodlnO_iPWgtqdRGF4rvj77jAGcLimusJHzDZBWl4i9HL0nxJFWrszVbt1NEVDNL9QEVsmV-trqZQi4uEe1k7AD3U/s1600/Steve_McCatty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTy2UHRV6cVgyO6lpdpLc7gW4_0irvZEZylw8wXS83jdubONrQdDodlnO_iPWgtqdRGF4rvj77jAGcLimusJHzDZBWl4i9HL0nxJFWrszVbt1NEVDNL9QEVsmV-trqZQi4uEe1k7AD3U/s320/Steve_McCatty.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
24 year old Steve McCatty pitched 20 innings over 9 games for the A's in 1978. He was not really considered a front line starter until Billy Martin arrived in 1980 and gave him the baseball every 5th day. McCatty won 14 games that year and followed it up with a 14-7 season in 1981, where he was the AL Cy Young runner up. Quickly after that his arm began to fall off thanks to the brutal overused that Martin imposed on his staff. I used an autographed photo that I found on ebay for this card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXw_Mfki8IvyYXFfrEEC62ZMBJJ325w6wJ0E9JX9uWlqkliEqEQ-5_MDPqaSwqDo-yeKYfKKprQGNGA41-wa2l1Pato_nhPJw_1bvbjTDDfvariuk12Lhbl64_9lnLMcqKwKcIdxwrkG4/s1600/Steve_Renko.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXw_Mfki8IvyYXFfrEEC62ZMBJJ325w6wJ0E9JX9uWlqkliEqEQ-5_MDPqaSwqDo-yeKYfKKprQGNGA41-wa2l1Pato_nhPJw_1bvbjTDDfvariuk12Lhbl64_9lnLMcqKwKcIdxwrkG4/s320/Steve_Renko.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
1978 would mark the only season the veteran Renko would spend in Oakland. After posting a 6-12, 4.29 Renko was granted free agency and signed with Boston. 8 of his 15 seasons were spent in Montreal, where he was the franchises first ace during their expansion genesis. I found this autographed photo on ebay as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEv34DDilBSpz7qFPrvbc1I221mITUvMO-B28e4CsBovpDHRfPdnBk9_YFb5fZ1hG1fE1DD3Q3fkxqbm62-5GyTn1Uq2y5k-3alPJu7ya4geH1xOo6RSXZibZEJScKjPTw4sgJ4r3AMr0/s1600/Taylor_Duncan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEv34DDilBSpz7qFPrvbc1I221mITUvMO-B28e4CsBovpDHRfPdnBk9_YFb5fZ1hG1fE1DD3Q3fkxqbm62-5GyTn1Uq2y5k-3alPJu7ya4geH1xOo6RSXZibZEJScKjPTw4sgJ4r3AMr0/s320/Taylor_Duncan.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
Drafted by the Oakland Athletics from the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1977 rule 5 draft, Duncan was a light hitting corner infielder who also didn't hit for much average (.257). In over 300 at bats for the A's in '78 he hit just 2 homers. He would head back to the minors in 1979 and hit even worse than the .257 he posted in Oakland. He would move on to 1 season in the Japanese league and 3 in the Mexican league before hanging it up. This photo came from his 1979 card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4lMhpqkCSmmSi-GLn0uyhKxEBK-GBMlDIRWXZlScYEQRvERWoVOKjpT4-9tlMKzZPCIoMi_gI6rznA2EfgMwIbt_KKPoyoz4wcRepYXDb_kXavlflbMTZBQKPOXFLN7rSUeyLWieusEw/s1600/Tim_Conroy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4lMhpqkCSmmSi-GLn0uyhKxEBK-GBMlDIRWXZlScYEQRvERWoVOKjpT4-9tlMKzZPCIoMi_gI6rznA2EfgMwIbt_KKPoyoz4wcRepYXDb_kXavlflbMTZBQKPOXFLN7rSUeyLWieusEw/s320/Tim_Conroy.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
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Conroy was the Oakland Athletics' first round draft pick after graduating from Gateway Senior High School in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monroeville,_Pennsylvania" style="background-image: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0b0080; text-decoration: initial;" title="Monroeville, Pennsylvania">Monroeville, Pennsylvania</a> in 1978. He was immediately called up by the A's that June with no minor league pitching experience.</div>
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In 7 seasons he had a 18-32 Win-Loss record, 135 games (71 started), 5 complete games, 1 shutout, 21 games finished, 466⅔ innings pitched, 438 hits allowed, 279 runs allowed, 244 earned runs allowed, 47 home runs allowed, 284 walks, 307 strikeouts, 10 hit batsmen, 31 wild pitches, 2,082 batters faced, 13 intentional walks, 2 balks and a 4.71 ERA. Basically another young arm that the A's rushed to the majors then ruined. This card photo came from a Donruss card in the early 80's.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMV2neS0bpQ1wZnA4HNQybEJSN7qkonUfQAevDPbPw6W05eUtql09v3R3WpZycMKZCudWECz52UfRGlDty9gKAWQhjnYa6xvJfmYDq1qItUMr9qgaSNPfCrBYlbQreeDj2trcS9qixUg/s1600/Tito_Fuentes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMV2neS0bpQ1wZnA4HNQybEJSN7qkonUfQAevDPbPw6W05eUtql09v3R3WpZycMKZCudWECz52UfRGlDty9gKAWQhjnYa6xvJfmYDq1qItUMr9qgaSNPfCrBYlbQreeDj2trcS9qixUg/s320/Tito_Fuentes.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
In 1962 Fuentes was one of the final ballplayers signed out of Cuba before Castro blocked his stars from leaving. In 1966 he finished 3rd in the Rookie of the Year voting, but slumped badly in '67 and wound up in the minors. His career would be a roller coaster of both good and bad seasons. One year he set the record for best fielding % by a second baseman after leading the league in errors the previous 2 seasons. Such was the life of the man known best for wearing a headband over his baseball cap. By 1978 he was on his last legs. After being cut by the Expos he was signed by the A's hoping to catch lighting in a bottle by returning to the Bay Area. Unfortunately for him he could not recapture the success he had in his 9 seasons with the Giants. In just 13 games with the A's in '78 he hit .140. I colorized this B&W photo and then superimposed it on a background of the Oakland Coliseum.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkKv8vA1ZuYTFlXwTiGGc4KlzFYxw8K-i4XkMLF3FcKsfl1cflfRa4g-KtvN234AwGzb75PRoWYBIJwQ-AtuugXf5SxgtBgx7b8IeqrKwKFJgETqSB3X_0k6YDJr3zs6rPgLo2o_LEK8/s1600/Willie_Horton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkKv8vA1ZuYTFlXwTiGGc4KlzFYxw8K-i4XkMLF3FcKsfl1cflfRa4g-KtvN234AwGzb75PRoWYBIJwQ-AtuugXf5SxgtBgx7b8IeqrKwKFJgETqSB3X_0k6YDJr3zs6rPgLo2o_LEK8/s320/Willie_Horton.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
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Horton arrived from Toronto in exchange for the enigmatic Rico Carty. Basically both last placed teams swapped DH's. Horton hit over .300 in 32 games, but had little power (3 homers). He signed as a free agent with the Mariners at the end of the season. I found this autographed photo on ebay.</div>
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-68578279034673217002012-12-11T10:51:00.002-08:002012-12-11T10:53:49.478-08:00Blue Jay Way<div style="text-align: justify;">
2nd year Expansion teams aren't expected to do much. With those lofty aspirations we can say that the Blue Jays did not disappoint. At 59-102, 40 games behind the division winners the Jays actually improved 5 games over their 1977 inaugural season totals. The Jays played their home games in the weirdly shaped Exhibition Stadium, which was better suited for Canadian Football or soccer. A temporary wall was added from left center to right to cordon off the football field dimensions and not create a LA Coliseum affect like the Dodgers had when they first moved west in 1958. On the field the Jays had a young team that combined with some veteran hitters. Not many of these young players would stick around to become the stars of their mid 1980's contenders. Many turned into trade bait that would help the Jays acquire those valuable pieces. Veterans John Mayberry (acquired from KC) and Rico Carty (acquired from CLE) paced the offense. Both hit over 20 homers. If fact they were the only Jays to reach double digits. The pitching staff was ranked next to last in the league and did not have a starter with a sub 4.00 ERA. Jim Clancy 10-12, 4.09 probably would have won 17 or 18 games playing for a contender. He would be one of the few that would stick around from Toronto's salad days and eventually play on a division winner. He would play 12 years north of the border and become a fan favorite.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-j3ySdrMnOHbjYkEEa4c5OGk75ptjyrWjjAfMHuDj4HEJL8d6UYqjn75Z09vQcjSDKVASm1D5_rCFtkAcw-ouxecMxKzce6jQCQ0c1fD9owwzAaoR_0ttKmtXShpFamJersqq9G86z0Q/s1600/Balor_Moore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-j3ySdrMnOHbjYkEEa4c5OGk75ptjyrWjjAfMHuDj4HEJL8d6UYqjn75Z09vQcjSDKVASm1D5_rCFtkAcw-ouxecMxKzce6jQCQ0c1fD9owwzAaoR_0ttKmtXShpFamJersqq9G86z0Q/s320/Balor_Moore.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Moore would arrive in Toronto after suffering through the expansion blues in Montreal since 1970. The suffering would not get any better in Toronto, nor would Moore, who's chief skill was eating up innings out of the pen. Moore would spend the next 3 seasons in Toronto doing just that. I found this photo while searching the web. It's a unique view of a pitcher covering the plate on a wild pitch, which I assume a guy like Moore did quite frequently.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe-aCmFh5dJYlwL-vHkGp8RumCcSa31WZOUF4Vcwi7RMn-sbMfBy-v8X-lUHPWFpAtZaPCZfvTCDsDVLU8HTx-3xB58rcjNeAR_bL2Qr7wtLpviKMFxL3rayuprLcXaChChcaEhzBJWE4/s1600/Brian_Milner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe-aCmFh5dJYlwL-vHkGp8RumCcSa31WZOUF4Vcwi7RMn-sbMfBy-v8X-lUHPWFpAtZaPCZfvTCDsDVLU8HTx-3xB58rcjNeAR_bL2Qr7wtLpviKMFxL3rayuprLcXaChChcaEhzBJWE4/s320/Brian_Milner.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Brian Milner was an 18 year old catcher who burst on the scene hitting .444 in just 9 games of action with the Jays in '78. He would finish his major league career as a .444 hitter, because he would never make it back to the show. In 5 years of minor league ball Milner never rose above AA and his batting average never eclipsed .260. This photo came from his Topps rookie panel card.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLek_-sm7mxeYslJ7hVjgYf7gKlVWacpjP28aUdQGM4qllyNEOyyaVC2EfVZCaB34eXqhbvV7Bwxu2tZCVLX05HwlUTGQOU-cpEyzQICLq2GFZy-_3gQh5zCHXYpgHwep0J2EYNQkITY4/s1600/Brian_Milner_TOR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLek_-sm7mxeYslJ7hVjgYf7gKlVWacpjP28aUdQGM4qllyNEOyyaVC2EfVZCaB34eXqhbvV7Bwxu2tZCVLX05HwlUTGQOU-cpEyzQICLq2GFZy-_3gQh5zCHXYpgHwep0J2EYNQkITY4/s320/Brian_Milner_TOR.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Alternate view for Milner, who had just 9 at bats as a major leaguer, but 2 Topps Rookie Cards !!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ULTFogdFiuUe72W6G-chBg29UjoElUqoYRoB0kFXqfMrnXMgoMr78EGpJTwcoSJ-Tt1ajyHzC_3VFbqe8T3heNhdJgQOPL8-flkSy-NgbF7vLBPgRDZ0aKupQLBw4qDqXI3RxsFguwk/s1600/Butch_Alberts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ULTFogdFiuUe72W6G-chBg29UjoElUqoYRoB0kFXqfMrnXMgoMr78EGpJTwcoSJ-Tt1ajyHzC_3VFbqe8T3heNhdJgQOPL8-flkSy-NgbF7vLBPgRDZ0aKupQLBw4qDqXI3RxsFguwk/s320/Butch_Alberts.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Alberts, a career minor leaguer, was a lifetime .287 hitter at the Triple A level. He wasn't much of a fielder and only posted 18 major league at bats, with all of them coming in 1978 for the Jays. He hit .278 in those 18 chances, but never got another opportunity to play for the big league club, which is kind of shocking considering how desperate the Jays were for talent. Alberts was 28 by the time the Jays gave him his sip of coffee. Getting sent back down must have definitely affected his psyche. In his final 2 AAA seasons his batting average fell below .220, which facilitated his release. This is a photoshopped version of his 1979 Syracuse Chiefs minor league card.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKF3Qx5y9sg_Bk389JMOo9fS1vwYaIiVBNdrwiwm3GJJp2dlLzfmoCIIFOtEEv45tkGqkTpwIWxUOBCsTjJx7nPylZdPhNPfKzf6mmm7oH4jw3zavafcgJXnIAPmhdokdwK6yE_-dnBTY/s1600/Dave_McKay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKF3Qx5y9sg_Bk389JMOo9fS1vwYaIiVBNdrwiwm3GJJp2dlLzfmoCIIFOtEEv45tkGqkTpwIWxUOBCsTjJx7nPylZdPhNPfKzf6mmm7oH4jw3zavafcgJXnIAPmhdokdwK6yE_-dnBTY/s320/Dave_McKay.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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An original Jay, drafted out of the Minnesota Twins organization, McKay was a switch hitter who started 145 games in the Jays infield in 1978. His .238 average signaled to management that a huge upgrade was needed. He didn't even have a '78 Topps card, because of his abysmal '77 campaign where he batted .197 in 95 games. After hitting just .218 in '79 he was shipped off to Oakland where he became a solid pinch hitter / platoon player. His greatest fame would come as a base coach for Tony Larussa. I used his 1977 O-Pee-Chee card shot for this card. Most folks in the states never saw the O-Pee-Chee set, which totally blew away the Topps versions because they paid very close attention toward getting live, no airbrushed shots for the Jays.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDFXjsRC4yTbw0Bn2g9J70wZzRAsGJukCm9Qp3GIfBR_gsb9CwqusBMtkqmZBh5bEOQcOupQ6wpz0cgzmm0mnwfh7RUgSwnA2ugbLdkGwxmNllmzZGp7N7Jkd5lNzd6L1cNiTXr5HXIQ/s1600/Don_Kirkwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDFXjsRC4yTbw0Bn2g9J70wZzRAsGJukCm9Qp3GIfBR_gsb9CwqusBMtkqmZBh5bEOQcOupQ6wpz0cgzmm0mnwfh7RUgSwnA2ugbLdkGwxmNllmzZGp7N7Jkd5lNzd6L1cNiTXr5HXIQ/s320/Don_Kirkwood.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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1978 marked the final year of Kirkwood's pedestrian major league career. Kirkwood best season was back in '75 when he was 6-5, 3.11 with the Angels. He moved to the Chisox and saw his ERA balloon up and his success spiral down. He would got 4-5, 4.24 out of the pen for the Jays. After being released by the Jays at the age of 28 he opted not to head back to the minors and called it quits. This photo came from Kirkwood's 1979 Topps offering.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yH9rOfYSFJGHSf_DJ_Lqjo8vd2vyR-4lhtDuD0w9W6L2aIdwWaRkG0hDayGVHb1KMz31V9mFZ8ZKhdWTDuc_wFa23abUO65O5BV2yuRGCWRnIOh-xldNuyz9o-qP6wI4l3pGLYnPSxE/s1600/Ernie_Whitt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yH9rOfYSFJGHSf_DJ_Lqjo8vd2vyR-4lhtDuD0w9W6L2aIdwWaRkG0hDayGVHb1KMz31V9mFZ8ZKhdWTDuc_wFa23abUO65O5BV2yuRGCWRnIOh-xldNuyz9o-qP6wI4l3pGLYnPSxE/s320/Ernie_Whitt.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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28 year old career minor leaguer Ernie Whitt was drafted out of the Boston chain in 1977 and immediately was farmed out by the Jays. Most players who reach this status disappear forever. Whitt took up the challenge to get better, which he did. After spending the early part of his career in an organization with Carlton Fisk as a fixture behind the plate, Whitt knew how to work. In '78 he would get just 4 at bats. In '79 he wouldn't even play in the majors, but in 1980 he would make the most of his opportunity and spend the next 9 years as the Jays starting catcher. During that span he would hit over 130 homers and knock in over 500 runs for the Jays, who became contenders. Let's just call him, "Never Quit, Ernie Whitt". I found this autographed photo of Whitt on ebay.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeDitlRwr_IP6lgLyXBfU-H-L3HZ4ORtS-0Z4gG3A8lGsxFG4xqTrn8ZAt-3kd1zl6ZPZMhXnPZ3GTMXi3lyVuF5MJJsfEDMZDe1JNVJSOR21_3lhx0gB3U3a-zEiBd1cyZi95epB1oM/s1600/Garth_Iorg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeDitlRwr_IP6lgLyXBfU-H-L3HZ4ORtS-0Z4gG3A8lGsxFG4xqTrn8ZAt-3kd1zl6ZPZMhXnPZ3GTMXi3lyVuF5MJJsfEDMZDe1JNVJSOR21_3lhx0gB3U3a-zEiBd1cyZi95epB1oM/s320/Garth_Iorg.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Originally drafted by the Yankees, 8th overall in 1976, Iorg wound up with the Jays as part of the expansion draft of 1977. Never a prime time full time player Iorg made his mark as a hard nosed platoon player in 9 seasons in Toronto. 1978 would be his first shot at the big leagues. He would hit .163 in 19 games. Due to his lack of production he was rewarded with a full season in the minors in 1979, but would return for good in 1980 and consistently play around 120 games a season as a utility man who could play all of the infield and outfield spots. His best season was 1985 where he hit .313 in almost 300 AB's. This card was created by using a team issue photo on blue screen that I cropped and superimposed over a picture of Exhibition Stadium. Notice the unique temporary wall behind him ?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHk23-wona35mH2Melh5E9F4TIfsbjhKhKvXsbYdE7MEf8XqnkIgy2U8Pi6DcJq8-ssZrxUb6BTPxsPBiBDF6UgIp7UzgNm9u6PRIwImTaV3FZ_vD2ZV6YhB5KryyNtV5aUb-g5vnN5R4/s1600/Joe_Coleman_TOR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHk23-wona35mH2Melh5E9F4TIfsbjhKhKvXsbYdE7MEf8XqnkIgy2U8Pi6DcJq8-ssZrxUb6BTPxsPBiBDF6UgIp7UzgNm9u6PRIwImTaV3FZ_vD2ZV6YhB5KryyNtV5aUb-g5vnN5R4/s320/Joe_Coleman_TOR.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Purchased from the A's in late May, Coleman was on the final legs of a rock solid major league career, where he won 20 games twice for the Tigers. Coleman would gain the "well traveled" label because he spent 7 of his 15 seasons on different teams. He arrived in the majors as an 18 year old with the old Washington Senators, who were pitching starved. Coleman pitched well, but the Sens never hit much. When he got to Detroit he hit his stride making fans easily forget the guy he was traded for, Denny McLain. In 1978 he saw limited action (60 innings in 32 games) and performed admirably for the Jays by going 2-0. Even though he was just 30 years of age, he was an old 30 (take that Frank Robinson) having logged many innings. He would spend parts of the next 2 seasons in SF and PIT before calling it a career at 32. I found this photo on ebay.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HaKZpeWdXgWKX27Zw1kZzaQL2ZSiYBlk1XPPzyXAHzh4QFJR6iRLvWk8qMxMhcoBgq8Sw_MkOjuBtnqvp4bYUssu-q3Zo8_bgtZvwOZwIZ4inqNUElmoWmwYKK6P7ka1fPKqaHwPVp0/s1600/John_Mayberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HaKZpeWdXgWKX27Zw1kZzaQL2ZSiYBlk1XPPzyXAHzh4QFJR6iRLvWk8qMxMhcoBgq8Sw_MkOjuBtnqvp4bYUssu-q3Zo8_bgtZvwOZwIZ4inqNUElmoWmwYKK6P7ka1fPKqaHwPVp0/s320/John_Mayberry.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Mayberry was saved by the expansion Royals from the Houston Astros chain and proceeded to carve out his spot as one of the top power hitting firstbasemen in the AL. In spring training of 1978 the Jays purchased his contract from the Royals. Mayberry rewarded their faith by leading the team with 22 homers and 70 RBI's. He would go on to hit 92 homers in 4 1/2 years of service in Toronto and help mentor a young Willie Upshaw, who would eventually become his replacement. I found this autographed photo on ebay.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AlRBob2_Df5X25Yavq-3PFDwNZoOzeaty83G6phQrCLUqdsYnZDbuxTm7wdmYV0m35BRCPlEyp1CDmKWefbNUjvm4GEXQl7HLVbQxqlY1O-ewa1VPDqL8nmyYwyQ9dcUEKM0EtiuZyY/s1600/Rick_Bosetti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AlRBob2_Df5X25Yavq-3PFDwNZoOzeaty83G6phQrCLUqdsYnZDbuxTm7wdmYV0m35BRCPlEyp1CDmKWefbNUjvm4GEXQl7HLVbQxqlY1O-ewa1VPDqL8nmyYwyQ9dcUEKM0EtiuZyY/s320/Rick_Bosetti.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Bosetti's contract was purchased from the Cardinals at the end of spring training in 1978. St. Louis had him pegged as a light hitting / average fielding outfielder. Toronto needed someone to play centerfield and was willing to take a chance that Bosetti could turn out to be more. What they got was a guy who hit .260 in 2 full season of work. In 1979 Bosetti played in all 162 games. By 1980 he dipped to .213 and his days in Toronto were now on notice. In 1981 he was shipped to Oakland in mid season where he played sparingly for parts of 2 seasons before being released. This photo is an autographed photo found on ebay.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLRgN8WD9lg_M3KYH3w3HP11IFCcaYkXC0fssUfG7B8mbHS8V9oN8YWhy1jFHiojV7xDMi3t3bfT1KT6N3IyrwqQBSbZnd1xZ4nfV2LHPkbBUOi3xoZrR8MIsH4Oswb9g14OEe1mdDMc/s1600/Rick_Bosetti_TOR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLRgN8WD9lg_M3KYH3w3HP11IFCcaYkXC0fssUfG7B8mbHS8V9oN8YWhy1jFHiojV7xDMi3t3bfT1KT6N3IyrwqQBSbZnd1xZ4nfV2LHPkbBUOi3xoZrR8MIsH4Oswb9g14OEe1mdDMc/s320/Rick_Bosetti_TOR.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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After creating Bosetti's original card I found this photo from his 1980 Topps supersized card and decided to create a second view.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAvc9R2jWZ3Q2SFMpzPj9f4KKLfucSb4E_nyh_VmtIESrqIiblL-fPeqSwr7CVeVzc29W8awOvP8JqtNOLTnrqZfzfHlfSMPjrQQ2csL_HR5XW9B7rbjTJAXsGfM1lDfxQ8tdyIDEO1I/s1600/Rico_Carty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAvc9R2jWZ3Q2SFMpzPj9f4KKLfucSb4E_nyh_VmtIESrqIiblL-fPeqSwr7CVeVzc29W8awOvP8JqtNOLTnrqZfzfHlfSMPjrQQ2csL_HR5XW9B7rbjTJAXsGfM1lDfxQ8tdyIDEO1I/s320/Rico_Carty.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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The enigmatic Rico Carty was a .330 hitter in his prime. As good as he was with the bat, that's how bad he was with the leather. When the AL instituted the DH Carty was a perfect fit. Unfortunately his temper and attitude made him a perfect fit to be traded time in and time out. He was originally drafted by the Jays in '77 from Cleveland in the expansion draft, but never played for Toronto because they sent him back to Cleveland. The 38 year old DH hit .278 and had 20 homers for the Jays in '78. In late August he was traded to Oakland for the remainder of the season. In 1979 he would be traded back to Toronto where he finished his career. All in total he worked for 6 teams in his 15 MLB seasons. His lifetime .299 average puts him 1 point below the coveted .300 threshold. This photo, although grainy, was the only non airbrushed photo I could find of him in a Jays uni.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsg9pPrfGd794GK145vc0Jfl3zfQBPE-b0tJ_zZ-NEiy_HPePYM6PiMvV6tTQif0xM3Ryiw9FqVA1WOkcqx17e7fDDlAz6A5fSgThCbN_PyzRLk_Vi6icPkLvyU4pJTAqXIMuPvwKbi8/s1600/Tim_Johnson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsg9pPrfGd794GK145vc0Jfl3zfQBPE-b0tJ_zZ-NEiy_HPePYM6PiMvV6tTQif0xM3Ryiw9FqVA1WOkcqx17e7fDDlAz6A5fSgThCbN_PyzRLk_Vi6icPkLvyU4pJTAqXIMuPvwKbi8/s320/Tim_Johnson.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Tim Johnson spent his entire baseball career as a .230 hitting utility infielder for both the Brewers and the Jays. In '78 he hit .241 in limited action after arriving on April 28th in a trade for his clone, Tim Nordbrook. Johnson would spend 2 seasons in Toronto as a player, but would become more infamous for his 1 season as manager in 1998. During that season he was able to take a rag tag team of underachievers and get them to finish in 3rd place with a 88-74 record. After the season ended Johnson admitted to lying to his players repeatedly when trying to motivate them. Johnson's lies centered around his fictitious service in Vietnam, a place that he never set foot in. During the war he was in the Marine Corps reserves and never saw live action. Many of his players felt betrayed. He was fired during spring training the following season and entered therapy. A sad ending to a blue collar player who worked his way up the ladder.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWKBY_bB07NKeKvEbio4qaZnbn5sUBg7c37bPn1pihKBKke6c6OParPS_X8X93eUk9LXsIZA7_AHew1mhT4x6wvn6xcw1IKF7qKmVszQG9lMyH8n-ZA4EFT9GbZDrIsXQ2QqW9FdsfhM/s1600/Tom_Buskey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWKBY_bB07NKeKvEbio4qaZnbn5sUBg7c37bPn1pihKBKke6c6OParPS_X8X93eUk9LXsIZA7_AHew1mhT4x6wvn6xcw1IKF7qKmVszQG9lMyH8n-ZA4EFT9GbZDrIsXQ2QqW9FdsfhM/s320/Tom_Buskey.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Tom Buskey was a man before his time. In the 1970's he was considered a journeyman middle reliever who just wasn't good enough to start. If he played today he would be a high priced setup man, who would have owned he 7th or 8th inning. Buskey started out with the Yankees then moved over to the Indians as part of the deal that brought Chris Chambliss and Dick Tidrow to New York. He performed admirably for some awful Tribe teams before being shipped to Texas and then being given his subsequent release. He landed in Toronto in mid 1978 and spent the next 3 seasons in the Jays' pen. In 1978 he would see just 13 innings of action. In 1979 he would go 6-10 despite a 3.43 ERA. In 1980 his ERA would balloon to 4.46 and at the age of 33 his career was over. Even though he spent parts of 3 seasons in Toronto the only photo we could find to use was his 1980 Topps card which required extensive airbrushing to remove the card logos.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjATenYuBwZsaW5pB34yoYNVdRUf3kKsNf3hpBXVgUJz3beXgYF8rPFH7tIATvyIZFsWAawlS6BF4pqOhUZTktZh3kZ3CUFe1I-ABeBQ3pC0VWeTNUdZSHwdXWm_1X2O7JGvm6vt2-Uxo4/s1600/Tom_Hutton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjATenYuBwZsaW5pB34yoYNVdRUf3kKsNf3hpBXVgUJz3beXgYF8rPFH7tIATvyIZFsWAawlS6BF4pqOhUZTktZh3kZ3CUFe1I-ABeBQ3pC0VWeTNUdZSHwdXWm_1X2O7JGvm6vt2-Uxo4/s320/Tom_Hutton.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Hutton spent 12 seasons in the majors as a defensive replacement at first base and a lefty bat off the bench. He is best know for his work as a broadcaster. During his career he typically averaged around 100 at bats or less in his role. In 1972 he got his one chance to start on a dreadful Phillies team that lost well over 100 games. He was slick with the glove, but only hit .260 with just 4 homers while playing his home games in hitter friendly Veterans Stadium. Hutton played just 64 games for the Jays in '78 before the Expos purchased his contract. He just .254 with zero pop. Due to his very brief tenure there aren't any color photos of his time in Toronto. I used his Hostess card photo, which I find very appropriate because Hutton was anything but a Twinkie as a pinch hitter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRVJEQqNV38DwFYgdCl9_PozjwsIrIHKpDAHM1XX6qwhoWbXzse4wbgKz1MWYcJYaTPleRgqhPXeI4SUgcr1a5CPVKNgReIPToyP3MfGZSXn7EUBUTC8WYLl3ex0EuAtxqZ1Xn61IN9Y/s1600/Tom_Underwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRVJEQqNV38DwFYgdCl9_PozjwsIrIHKpDAHM1XX6qwhoWbXzse4wbgKz1MWYcJYaTPleRgqhPXeI4SUgcr1a5CPVKNgReIPToyP3MfGZSXn7EUBUTC8WYLl3ex0EuAtxqZ1Xn61IN9Y/s320/Tom_Underwood.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Underwood arrived in the majors at the ripe old age of 20 in 1974. He had tow solid seasons winning 14 and 10 for a Philly team that was on the upswing. He stumbled in '77 and split time between Philly and St. Louis going 9-11 with a 5.00 ERA. The Jays picked him up during the offseason in exchange for future Cy Young Award winner Pete Vuckovich. Underwood was 6-14, 4.10 in '78 for the Jays. A terrible record for a guy who didn't pitch all that bad. He was 9-16, 3.69 the following year and one had to think that if he had a team like the Yankees behind him instead of the Jays he could reverse his fortune. Well guess what ? He was dealt to the Yankees in 1980 and went 13-9, 3.66, so having a solid team behind a good pitcher can make a world of difference. After leaving the Yankees midway through 1981 he landed in Oakland hand had 2 1/2 solid seasons befor elanding in the Baltimore pen in 1984 for his final season. Underwood's years in Toronto contributed to his final major league record (86-87, 3.89) being 1 game below .500.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE_m0sN_YQLvNNULAf3Ou8wRXptEiBs6WxEivX5jsyTfcQ1Lvg2HXgBdaou6mDYzOYwX5JzH59fDEgnkSVJUOtViZslQf78vJBGvIYKcJGSUXUZMGqnv_qU6IZWTdgeRfl1Jv70zz1ws/s1600/Victor_Cruz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE_m0sN_YQLvNNULAf3Ou8wRXptEiBs6WxEivX5jsyTfcQ1Lvg2HXgBdaou6mDYzOYwX5JzH59fDEgnkSVJUOtViZslQf78vJBGvIYKcJGSUXUZMGqnv_qU6IZWTdgeRfl1Jv70zz1ws/s320/Victor_Cruz.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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No TD catches or Salsa dances for this guy in the Super Bowl. Just an outstanding 7-3, 1.71 season as the Jays closer with 9 saves. The Jays must not have thought he was more than a 1 hit wonder (they were correct) and shipped him off to Cleveland in exchange for future All-Star Alfredo Griffin. I found this great shot of him while searching the web.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKDYdjIoAuDnIQQuIw-J-lCqlEd4ltkQRT5gHCh9J2cvTNF5KzL5GOtQFjNu2W1rRQGCidwaig801gXAnTmA_arcXPXkRO128qAiQhX4yFYxs4YtwxRtkxcTYNRUcQ608rS6NYcSGC9o/s1600/Willie_Horton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKDYdjIoAuDnIQQuIw-J-lCqlEd4ltkQRT5gHCh9J2cvTNF5KzL5GOtQFjNu2W1rRQGCidwaig801gXAnTmA_arcXPXkRO128qAiQhX4yFYxs4YtwxRtkxcTYNRUcQ608rS6NYcSGC9o/s320/Willie_Horton.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Horton spent just 33 games in a Blue Jay uniform after arriving in late August in a deal with Oakland that exchanged DH's on two bottom teams. By this point in his career Horton looked to be winding down. After hitting just .205 with 3 homers the Jays allowed Horton to become a free agent. He signed with Seattle and won the comeback player of the year award with a .279-29-106 season. Horton's best years were spent as a member of the late 60's early 70's great Detroit Tiger teams. Horton, a native of Detroit, was not only a key figure on the 1968 Tiger World Champs, but an integral figure in helping the city overcome racial strife. Horton's key superstition was that he wore the same batting helmet throughout his career and painted it every time he switched teams. He didn't have to do any painting at all during his first 15 seasons, all spent in Detroit. His final 5 years saw him move 6 times.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNy1p8_6ihcS8bV3jXI3uXrc7dzHqrxR0yv5O1g4X7FTfFF080zumbYaeJflru7YDNEQuTtfcbNCPpieuIbwpyiKc0I8ZhyaQgG7AnfKqe40bpSeIj9hZJBuPDbatW3f-gXHODnnpuEDo/s1600/Willie_Upshaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNy1p8_6ihcS8bV3jXI3uXrc7dzHqrxR0yv5O1g4X7FTfFF080zumbYaeJflru7YDNEQuTtfcbNCPpieuIbwpyiKc0I8ZhyaQgG7AnfKqe40bpSeIj9hZJBuPDbatW3f-gXHODnnpuEDo/s320/Willie_Upshaw.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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The Jays pilfered Upshaw from the Yankees system as a rule 5 selection. Even though he wasn't ready for he majors at 21 he still spent the 1978 season on the Jays major league roster where he hit .237 with just one homer in over 230 at bats. 1979 would see his return to the minors for some much needed seasoning. By 1982 he would become the Jays regular first baseman after Mayberry left. He would hold that job down for the next 6 seasons until the "Crime Dog" Fred McGriff arrived. Upshaw was a slick fielder with a solid bat. I found this photo on a Blue Jays press guide and thought it would make a nice card.</div>
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-30752035923848392142012-12-10T12:27:00.000-08:002012-12-10T12:27:17.140-08:00Angels in the Outfield, the Infield, behind the Plate and on the HillThe 1978 California Angels spent a lot of Gene Autry's bucks, but still could not topple the KC Royals in the AL West. Don Baylor (39) was the only player to hit more than 17 homers. In fact only 3 players, including Baylor wound up with double digits for long balls. Their pitching wasn't much better. In fact, no hit ace Nolan Ryan had a sub .500 season with an ERA close to 4.00, which was well below his normal standards while toiling in Anaheim. Somehow this team remarkably finished in the 1st division, 5 games back of the Royals. With a bit more power and some better pitching they could have won the division (fast forward to 1979...)<br />
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To update their card set for ARAIG play I had to add 13 new cards. Chad and Erik (those photo elves) supplied me with the photos and I plugged in some additional pics to the mix as well. My preference is to use player photos that I find on the net or had in my collection. If those can't be found then we dip into a previous or future baseball card. When that doesn't work, we head to the airbrush or colorize a black and white photo. I will credit accordingly as I post to the blog.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_VdRJIiIre1WconroOEK32Xbof4rElD823jyz-P2UfNrxyI90E_HM97bGt3EYbWKpwjz4igm0h6t6Zf2mVBTufc3Y0wWg0mrlrfQC8805ZmrJt9m_AamvpRTqSt1TtmcaRSx4gGYLqw/s1600/Al_Fitzmorris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_VdRJIiIre1WconroOEK32Xbof4rElD823jyz-P2UfNrxyI90E_HM97bGt3EYbWKpwjz4igm0h6t6Zf2mVBTufc3Y0wWg0mrlrfQC8805ZmrJt9m_AamvpRTqSt1TtmcaRSx4gGYLqw/s320/Al_Fitzmorris.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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After 8 solid seasons in KC, Fitzmorris wound up in Cleveland, where all good baseball careers died during the 1970's. After a 6-10 season with an era of 5.41 he was on notice. Midway through the 1978 campaign the Tribe cut him loose and the Halos picked him up. In 9 games in Anaheim he went 1-0 with a 1.79 ERA. On the surface it looked like he resurrected his career, but the Halos must not have seen much so they gave him his release after the season concluded. The Padres signed him but he never pitched again in the majors. The photo pictured here is from his '79 card. His smile must indicate that he just found out he wouldn't have to pitch in Cleveland anymore.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgK1Rqz5P3XwedHfreWXYRyq-Re3888eG1j9hBimhinO44kGZsliCJKK8YJTWxPkfQqu7-NeKcVo7hJVwv24Eiew8BJr2ZXMV2gzZ4rDCJknLPIn8RBTHB2IHDs-uGaB8BOiTwcL_toE/s1600/Brian_Downing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgK1Rqz5P3XwedHfreWXYRyq-Re3888eG1j9hBimhinO44kGZsliCJKK8YJTWxPkfQqu7-NeKcVo7hJVwv24Eiew8BJr2ZXMV2gzZ4rDCJknLPIn8RBTHB2IHDs-uGaB8BOiTwcL_toE/s320/Brian_Downing.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Traded by the <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/CHW/1977.shtml">Chicago White Sox</a> with <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/frostda01.shtml">Dave Frost</a> and <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/knappch01.shtml">Chris Knapp</a> to the <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/CAL/1977.shtml">California Angels</a> for <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bondsbo01.shtml">Bobby Bonds</a>, <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bosleth01.shtml">Thad Bosley</a> and <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dotsori01.shtml">Richard Dotson</a>. Downing turned out to be a steal for the Angels. While his catching ability (not so good) and his 1977 stats (.255-7-46) might have indicated otherwise, Downing improved in time once moved from behind the plate to left field and the DH spot. In 13 seasons in Anaheim he would hit .272 with over 200 homers and 800+ RBI's. This card was created with the photo used for the 1980 Topps super size set.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPTHQFO-HwwxWoPy-jPZszQTQv418e7l7rCbTzmffkgYdaIVdxYeC_GxU0xJT5ASrsbwCyRU7y7lArfQtR_CW2Cg8uSy1f-Hik2dwBHpdVS9jfkwTfZkQYSDBh2R_EfFIPyqWUNqxBHU/s1600/Carney_Lansford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPTHQFO-HwwxWoPy-jPZszQTQv418e7l7rCbTzmffkgYdaIVdxYeC_GxU0xJT5ASrsbwCyRU7y7lArfQtR_CW2Cg8uSy1f-Hik2dwBHpdVS9jfkwTfZkQYSDBh2R_EfFIPyqWUNqxBHU/s320/Carney_Lansford.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Lansford would finish 3rd in the Rookie of the Year voting in 1978 as the Halo's freshman thirdbaseman. He would only last 3 seasons in SoCal before being dealt to Boston where he would hit .336 and win a batting title. He would eventually hit his stride when he arrived in Oakland to anchor their infield as the team won 3 pennants. My guess is that the Halos expected more power from their corner infielders and needed to deal one of them. Since the other corner infielder was high price free agent / future HOF'er, Lansford was the odd man out. The photo used here was a stock photo found on an Angels fan site.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqSznRqcWr2bUJ2LR6xYvncFM_Xdaeh8ptckdW-mx85yGCWqH4J5KB7kqdykhAFGBBMch7Ltjna7XMkDCAVDufTfYORNJ4N899942iCOZ9uI2Q633KcfzCd_YqhGlw-idiytQhCaotw4/s1600/Dave_Frost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqSznRqcWr2bUJ2LR6xYvncFM_Xdaeh8ptckdW-mx85yGCWqH4J5KB7kqdykhAFGBBMch7Ltjna7XMkDCAVDufTfYORNJ4N899942iCOZ9uI2Q633KcfzCd_YqhGlw-idiytQhCaotw4/s320/Dave_Frost.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Frost arrived as part of the Downing trade from the Chisox. In 10 starts he logged 80 innings and posted a 5-4 record with an impressive 2.58 ERA. He was a 25 year old righty with lots of upside. The following year he was 16-10 with a 3.57 ERA. He logged over 200 innings and looked like he was going to be a solid number 2 or 3 starter, but the injury bug hit him as well as ineffectiveness. After 2 seasons of limited action and a 5.00+ ERA he wound up in KC, where he performed just as miserably and wound up being released. This photo came from his 1981 Fleer card. Not easy to google search pictures for a guy named Dave Frost. Somehow google thinks he's the British dude who interviewed Nixon..</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdk4mzk4S0099BcTM-OEf0Jc8VsAWAc1xA3cS0XxU1SpMe0nOiyuPPTjgE3s4adpYyQ0QGj2LK_Gz8JqCwXx_lkgW-EBr-hvesqRVf2Qh3dRsvNYihKxkij_8KnD6E05EpwOLcClFcz7k/s1600/Don_Aase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdk4mzk4S0099BcTM-OEf0Jc8VsAWAc1xA3cS0XxU1SpMe0nOiyuPPTjgE3s4adpYyQ0QGj2LK_Gz8JqCwXx_lkgW-EBr-hvesqRVf2Qh3dRsvNYihKxkij_8KnD6E05EpwOLcClFcz7k/s320/Don_Aase.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Nobody had a better mustache than Don Aase. It is rumored that on nights when he slept in his 'stache still went out an had a good time. Aase came over from Boston during the offseason in exchange for the "Rem-Dog". He was a below average starter with a low 4.00 ERA. Eventually he moved to the pen and became an above average reliever, especially when he moved over to Baltimore. In total, Aase had himself a fine 13 year career. This card was one of my favorites to create. I found a photo of him with a blue background and removed the background and superimposed Anaheim Stadium behind him.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ynWhwRoCAObd_kgOb2fOCdT0DjVtolvdi0d3VavSucqsrAi2eJczdn_MEDRwJ-N88RXAqJ5vhKlNwXpJLeT0LOOSYVhY561HduZ1P2Dq0pE6c5s1PmcvG0vjdXbVMdqGJrfv4GtdZ9g/s1600/Jim_Anderson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ynWhwRoCAObd_kgOb2fOCdT0DjVtolvdi0d3VavSucqsrAi2eJczdn_MEDRwJ-N88RXAqJ5vhKlNwXpJLeT0LOOSYVhY561HduZ1P2Dq0pE6c5s1PmcvG0vjdXbVMdqGJrfv4GtdZ9g/s320/Jim_Anderson.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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At first I thought this guy was that guy who came in 3rd during the 1980 presidential election. Upon further review I realized that was John Anderson. I should have realized that considering the fact that a 20 something year old baseball player can not run for president. I blame this thought process on my 4 sports related concussions. In any case, Anderson was a journeyman infielder. Not many photos of him are available in an Angels uni'. This came from his 1980 card that Chad sent me. I toyed with the idea of colorizing a B&W photo of him that I found, but I figured "how much action is he going to see anyway ?"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3B8YHYkqICKKWJHJ_zYnMLYQZ_ytYQVggU9tB0N520WY4izdUvp5PB2Z_B_StIdfWNXsGOWaVn4HOThk3P01IDkOY6yDbGjAH7fHDCO6XPxGN7TZypJWtIxb34TQWhhymTQI6yTZ9jw/s1600/John_Caneira.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3B8YHYkqICKKWJHJ_zYnMLYQZ_ytYQVggU9tB0N520WY4izdUvp5PB2Z_B_StIdfWNXsGOWaVn4HOThk3P01IDkOY6yDbGjAH7fHDCO6XPxGN7TZypJWtIxb34TQWhhymTQI6yTZ9jw/s320/John_Caneira.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
A career minor leaguer who pitched in just 2 games for the Halo's in 1978 and was farmed out after posting a 7.04 ERA. Laziness and apathy forced me to reuse the 1977 airbrushed photo I created for his Topps card that we used last season.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXO37OgdaX7lf9M9iGUUklAlclJAVt4vB80g9dJiXuspaSmwIP_mRrlQWgfE9eNBfVxo40U0lAou2zQpjdV1UX_g1Mxg7_Ugzjwvj2RAEzk3MEuoKIREsiKJAwE0mOukT60Ptw_mJ1zo/s1600/Ken_Landreaux.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNXO37OgdaX7lf9M9iGUUklAlclJAVt4vB80g9dJiXuspaSmwIP_mRrlQWgfE9eNBfVxo40U0lAou2zQpjdV1UX_g1Mxg7_Ugzjwvj2RAEzk3MEuoKIREsiKJAwE0mOukT60Ptw_mJ1zo/s320/Ken_Landreaux.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Landreaux was a speedy outfielder who didn't have much pop. The Halos didn't have much patience for this youngster to develop. After spending 2 seasons as their 4th or 5th outfielder he was dealt to the Twins, where he quickly developed into an All-Star. To add insult to injury 3 years later he wound up across town playing for the hated Dodgers and winning a championship. In 1978 he would play all 3 outfield positions and hit .223. I found this photo on ebay and cleaned it up a bit before using it for his '78 card.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hDyJih3LripyCcNXOpWQx2137XsYR_YGayE3T61xWWgw_ScmCWvAnVnNK8HB2I_98RgCSEDhV28ixrO2k-cA-QuDaABJyLzA1CMoqIUr7c20z-nuNxNL2G6Lv841YSJOzfOZGmxUxZU/s1600/Merv_Rettenmund.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hDyJih3LripyCcNXOpWQx2137XsYR_YGayE3T61xWWgw_ScmCWvAnVnNK8HB2I_98RgCSEDhV28ixrO2k-cA-QuDaABJyLzA1CMoqIUr7c20z-nuNxNL2G6Lv841YSJOzfOZGmxUxZU/s320/Merv_Rettenmund.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Signed in the offseason as a Free Agent Rettenmund was the quintessential 4th outfielder. He could play all 3 outfield positions capably plus he could hit in clutch spots. He just never hit for the kind of power a good corner oufielder was expected to post. In his early years in Baltimore he racked up post season appearances and clutch pinch hitting at bats. He would get nearly 300 at bats filling in for an aging Frank Robinson or Don Bufford. My guess is that he was brought to Anaheim to do the same. In 3 seasons with the Halo's he hit .266 in limited action. This photo came from his 79 Card.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVxAhiy-EDSCmPHcyxi-GigYkEp1YrophuuCduyg6FWfClH-0D2Rjxp_iBjj5_xvTB8eB7baawStINjyWi6Ch_CWg3QfoZzHmtLuuRlMIZQoZrF3Yv9P9ZDPvkWa8xWdhIroPluFqyS4/s1600/Rick_Miller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVxAhiy-EDSCmPHcyxi-GigYkEp1YrophuuCduyg6FWfClH-0D2Rjxp_iBjj5_xvTB8eB7baawStINjyWi6Ch_CWg3QfoZzHmtLuuRlMIZQoZrF3Yv9P9ZDPvkWa8xWdhIroPluFqyS4/s320/Rick_Miller.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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In 1978 Rick Miller won the gold glove for his fielding prowess as the California Angels centerfielder after signing as a Free Agent in the off season. Miller had to be a gold glover, because no other major league team sported a centerfielder who hit just 1 home run in over 400 AB's. Miller's career before and after 1978 was that of a late inning defensive replacement. In total he would spend 15 years in the majors doing what he did best, tracking down long fly balls in the gap. I found this signed photo on ebay for his 78 Card.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTT_LxlAY2JROgwcIg0oOJA3h_x_k18bEOat2yh6rHsyi3b7co3DLIRzdyKwACGubuHiXTvyD0GXnHFhyphenhyphenJSOJcFxdOFuxw7pQ2WICr9XlrsHwFS5A6I-vRbO51ni1RHJxLnePUH2LGNvs/s1600/Ron_Fairly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTT_LxlAY2JROgwcIg0oOJA3h_x_k18bEOat2yh6rHsyi3b7co3DLIRzdyKwACGubuHiXTvyD0GXnHFhyphenhyphenJSOJcFxdOFuxw7pQ2WICr9XlrsHwFS5A6I-vRbO51ni1RHJxLnePUH2LGNvs/s320/Ron_Fairly.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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39 year old Ron Fairly was in the final year of a pretty good 21 year career. He was coming off an All-Star season as a member of the expansion Toronto Blue Jays. The Angel brass figured he had something left in the tank and could recreate his '77 campaign as a lefty bat off the bench and a part time starter at 1st or DH. Fairly aged terribly right before their eyes and hit just .221 with limited power. Fans never took to him as an Angel and would always remember him as a Dodger, where he spent 12 seasons and won 3 World Championships. I found this signed photo on ebay.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmjG0knbN6XdYnjs5VEY2Kn1-WoL8YnCKM4u9kQyNT6NAe8G9OGjVzDs-8Bff2O6hsdC1NJE4dsTIk6fH-WyXHFNG6qqh-g5OKWhh4A9q50tNAeEpP35l7JHus9mIv3WRKKC5ssqfsMI/s1600/Tom_Griffin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmjG0knbN6XdYnjs5VEY2Kn1-WoL8YnCKM4u9kQyNT6NAe8G9OGjVzDs-8Bff2O6hsdC1NJE4dsTIk6fH-WyXHFNG6qqh-g5OKWhh4A9q50tNAeEpP35l7JHus9mIv3WRKKC5ssqfsMI/s320/Tom_Griffin.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Coming off a 6-9, 4.46 season in San Diego the Angels rushed to sign Griffin as a free agent and expected big things. Ok, that's a huge stretch considering the 30 year old Griffin was never more than a .500 pitcher at best. In his one season in SoCal he would pitch 56 innings in 24 games and post a 3-4, 4.02 record, which corresponded with his career averages. At the end of the season he was released. He caught on with the Giants and had 3 pretty good season over in the Bay Area before imploding in Pittsburgh in 1982, where his career ended with a 8.82 ERA season.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJ4uSI_1kvkJVWXD12PzS4PmioFBj4rhp8HwMusGYvzPSvm7ckbEziFuqQ9bjUx-JJnlYeGuU3xmJvwgQfRe8k0MpJml6hsh7w4vcCuFU9kcUgR6XSnJB6sBjgPrHT2_wIpnuW5o9KC4/s1600/Chris_Knapp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJ4uSI_1kvkJVWXD12PzS4PmioFBj4rhp8HwMusGYvzPSvm7ckbEziFuqQ9bjUx-JJnlYeGuU3xmJvwgQfRe8k0MpJml6hsh7w4vcCuFU9kcUgR6XSnJB6sBjgPrHT2_wIpnuW5o9KC4/s320/Chris_Knapp.jpg" width="226" /></a><span style="text-align: justify;">One of the forgotten guys acquired in the Downing trade, Knapp actually made it into the Halos 1978 rotation and won 14 games. Over the next 2 seasons his ERA would go up 1 point per year, which facilitated his exit from baseball. He would tool around in the minors for the next 4 seasons with his stats getting worse and worse, until he finally called it quits. At 6'5" and 190 lbs Knapp must have looked like a bespectacled bean pole on the mound.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggcMOr7k8CN6W5pMbYdh6L_i5HYN4hocHkJiba_PUmslvZh7EP1Ak2N_dHH4cyf9Cr-4rSrDQO9LLer_h_BuVFAgPXAhSSwNzC5Wl6M1U35DCpwBWA-vt9MtLhsWTq6WNYhRVii3cT9ns/s1600/Danny_Goodwin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggcMOr7k8CN6W5pMbYdh6L_i5HYN4hocHkJiba_PUmslvZh7EP1Ak2N_dHH4cyf9Cr-4rSrDQO9LLer_h_BuVFAgPXAhSSwNzC5Wl6M1U35DCpwBWA-vt9MtLhsWTq6WNYhRVii3cT9ns/s320/Danny_Goodwin.jpg" width="226" /></a><span style="text-align: justify;">Danny Goodwin was know as "the Black Johnny Bench" when he was drafted #1 overall twice. He hurt his shoulder in the minors and could never throw like a major leaguer again. He was moved to 1st and DH, but didn't hit enough at either slot and was eventually moved to the Twins. <a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/1206/mlb-biggest-busts-drafted-no.1/content.7.html">Sports Illustrated</a> has an interesting article on Baseball Draft Busts and he's featured prominently. I found this great photo there.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXzI28GpKhcoPDXZcl6TNLZvPiXFbyufHkA8507AHqULASxk4ylvgoUnqql7EjvBb0cRKx-f_dShwMP0jdwohVST0g3EB26Eiflb9duUNrSgdxXj1RSqWaHt46x94MfOGjSANndX32Sc/s1600/Dave_Machemer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXzI28GpKhcoPDXZcl6TNLZvPiXFbyufHkA8507AHqULASxk4ylvgoUnqql7EjvBb0cRKx-f_dShwMP0jdwohVST0g3EB26Eiflb9duUNrSgdxXj1RSqWaHt46x94MfOGjSANndX32Sc/s320/Dave_Machemer.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="226" /></a><span style="text-align: justify;">Homered in his first at bat for the Angels in 1978 and hit .278 in 22 games during his cup of coffee with the big club after spending 6 years in the minors. He moved on to the Tigers chain the following year and hit .192 in limited action with the big club before being farmed out for good. He tooled around he minors until 1982 before hanging it up after being a career AAA player. This card took some fine cut and paste along with airbrushing to make. It started as a minor league card. I added an Angels cap and Nolan Ryan's warmup jacket (why not borrow from the very best).</span></div>
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3461973298168875677.post-15114155995063315802012-12-10T07:24:00.000-08:002012-12-10T07:38:16.437-08:001978 Topps PreviewBy 1978 the "fat cats" from 1 Whitehall Street were a true monopoly. Because of that they got a little lazy and dipped heavily into their two shortcuts:<br />
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<li>Airbrushing uniforms and caps</li>
<li>BHNH (Big Head No Hat) views</li>
</ul>
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The most apparent of this would be the Mike Phillips card. The afforementioned utility infielder was traded mid season 1977 to the Cardinals from the Mets. No reason for him not to have a 1978 card with a normal photo picturing him in a Cardinal uniform. Instead Topps issued an airbrushed card that converted his Mets cap into a crayola-ed Cardinal Cap. His uniform was colored gray, but had no logo. The background was obviously Shea Stadium. Here, side by side is a little comparison of Topps' original work and my touch up.<br />
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This project is aimed at adding cards for players who played during the 1978 season, but did not card or had one of these horrible airbrush or BHNH cards. I will be updating this team by team for use by the ARAIG league as we replay the 1978 season using DK Sports Action PC Baseball.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPJQFwhKGQPOIHVz2LqOT93iP-g1IcZNqo_67GPPLfYkx_lMnYRT3x4MFyJs7-X-HZY2kXXNEA2QO4CCcYtRkmTOn78SK15DJ0F_kEjp2agEUrMTWnAj2ztSygODlWVvRUhohaTzdBXg/s1600/MikePhillipsTopps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPJQFwhKGQPOIHVz2LqOT93iP-g1IcZNqo_67GPPLfYkx_lMnYRT3x4MFyJs7-X-HZY2kXXNEA2QO4CCcYtRkmTOn78SK15DJ0F_kEjp2agEUrMTWnAj2ztSygODlWVvRUhohaTzdBXg/s1600/MikePhillipsTopps.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hUxjZxgDDj0cQiIO8t0VVYZ5mF9MFpj9887v8jdjWcYOJUd96HRWZ5SGiEBPERJJXe_6W9BfbZDPMUq2ZYMjCLSH7kLQTlgmk0bNpBJf0PMrfPrZVEFDDwGIvf3yBX2Z9ki9_NRXbBI/s1600/Mike_Phillips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hUxjZxgDDj0cQiIO8t0VVYZ5mF9MFpj9887v8jdjWcYOJUd96HRWZ5SGiEBPERJJXe_6W9BfbZDPMUq2ZYMjCLSH7kLQTlgmk0bNpBJf0PMrfPrZVEFDDwGIvf3yBX2Z9ki9_NRXbBI/s1600/Mike_Phillips.jpg" /></a></div>
ARAIG EXPOShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036891265134222123noreply@blogger.com0