1967 Topps Reggie Smith Boston Red Sox Rookie Card

In anticipation of my 2nd annual junket to Florida for Spring Training, I wanted to share a card that was added to my 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball card collection during the 1st trip in 2009. It is Reggie Smith on the 1967 Boston Red Sox Rookie Stars Card with Mike Andrews. Card number 314 in the 1967 Topps Baseball card set of 609 cards.

This autograph was obtained in Clearwater, Florida while the Phillies were playing an exhibition game against the 2009 USA World Baseball Classic team. Reggie Smith was the batting coach for WBC team and was very gracious to come over to me before the started and sign my card. Reggie Smith is known in the hobby as a tough signature to get and I am very thankful he obliged my request. He signed the card with a black sharpie that I supplied. Thank you Reggie.

Reggie Smith's career in Major League Baseball spanned 17 seasons from 1966 to 1982. He played for the Boston Red Sox, the St. Louis Cardinals, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Francisco Giants. During his career, Reggie Smith accumulated the following statistics, 2020 base hits in 1987 games, 314 home runs, 1092 runs batted in stole 137 bases and a career .287 batting average. Reggie Smith was involved in four World Series, 1967(loss) with the Red Sox and 1977(loss), 1978(loss) and 1981(win) with the Los Angeles Dodgers.  Reggie hit 6 home runs in a total of 21 World Series games. Reggie Smith also won a Gold Glove in 1968 and was a seven-time All Star. Reggie was 2nd in the 1967 Rookie of the Year voting behind future Hall of Famer Rod Carew. In his rookie season, Reggie hit 15 home runs, drove in 61 runs and stole 16 bases.

After his playing days were over, Reggie Smith spent time as a coach, minor league instructor and player development official for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He also runs Reggie Smith Baseball to help youth players develop the necessary skills to be a successful baseball player. 

To learn more about Reggie Smith, go to his biography at wikipedia.org.
 
Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Woody Woodward Atlanta Braves

The mailbox was kind to me today. The 462nd entry into my collection of the 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball cards was waiting for me as I opened the box. It was Woody Woodward, second baseman for the Atlanta Braves. Card number 546 in the 1967 Topps Baseball set of 609 cards.

This autographed card was obtained by using a through the mail request to Woody Woodward at his home in Florida on February 12, 2010. Mr. Woodward returned the card signed with a black ball point pen autograph 13 days later. Thank you Woody!

Woody Woodward's career in Major League Baseball lasted 9 seasons from 1963 to 1971. He primarily played for the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves then ended his career with the Cincinnati Reds. In his 880 games, Woody combiled a .236 career batting average, 517 base hits, included one home run in 1970, and 148 runs batted in. Woody has appeared in the 1970 World Series against the eventual champion, Baltimore Orioles. He had one hit in 5 at bats in the 4 games he played. Teammate Wayne Granger said "We've figured it out. It will take him 4,189 years to catch Babe Ruth."  after Woodward finally hit his first home run in his eighth season.

After Woody retired, he became the head baseball coach at Florida State University from 1975 to 1978. Woody Woodward also spent time as general manager of the New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies and Seattle Mariners. As general manager, Woody drafted some notable players such as Alex Rodriguez, Raul Ibanez, Barry Zito and Jason Varitek. He is currently a scout for the Mariners.


To learn more about Woody Woodward's career, go to his biographies at wikipedia.org and baseball-reference.com.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Jim Bouton New York Yankees

Today's entry of the 1967 Topps Autographed baseball cards is about a pitcher who could almost be known more for his words than his playing days. It is Jim Bouton, pitcher for the New York Yankees. Card number 393 in the 1967 Topps Baseball set of 609 cards.

This autograph was obtained by sending Jim Bouton a request through the mail to his home in Massachusetts. The card was sent to Mr. Bouton on July 13, 2009 with a requested donation. Jim Bouton returned the card signed 12 days later with a nice blue sharpie autograph.

Jim Bouton played in 10 seasons from 1962 to 1978. He started his career with the Yankees from 1962 to 1968. Then he was part of the Seattle Pilots' expansion draft in 1969 and pitched parts of two seasons with the Houston Astros. He retired in 1970 and attempted a comeback with the Atlanta Braves in 1978. His career statistics include 62 wins versus 63 losses, a career 3.57 earned run average and 720 strikeouts. Jim Bouton's best seasons were 1963 and 1964 when he won a combined 39 games and struck out 273 batters. He was named to the 1963 American League All-Star team for his efforts. Jim also participated in two World Series winning 2 games versus 1 loss.

Jim Bouton has achieved fame for his books he has written about his playing days. His first book, "Ball Four", chronicled his time in the major leagues and portrayed a behind the scenes look at the players and teams. A controversial book at that time of publishing, but it is a comical look at the real happening of a baseball team and players.

To learn more about Jim Bouton and his career, go to his official website at www.jimbouton.com.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Camilo Pascual Washington Senators

Today's subject for the blog about the 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball cards is that of Camilo Pascual, pitcher for the Washington Senators. Card number 71 in the 1967 Topps Baseball set of 609 cards.

This autograph was obtained with a through the mail (TTM) request to Camilo Pascual's home in Florida. I mailed the card on September 18, 2009 with a small donation. He autographed the card with a nice blue signature and returned the card to me 10 days later. I do not mind sending a small donation to the player or their charity as a token of appreciation for their time and attention to my request. Thank you Mr. Pascual for the autograph. As of February 23, 2010, I have 461 different autographs within the set and look forward to obtaining the balance of players, if possible.

Camilo Pascual played 18 seasons in the Major Leagues from 1954 until 1971. Originally from Cuba, Camilo started playing for the Washington Senators/Minnesota Twins franchise then went back to the new Washington Senators in 1967. He also played for the Cincinnati Reds, the Los Angeles Dodgers and finally ending his career with the Cleveland Indians in 1971. During the 18 seasons, Camilo amassed 174 career wins, had a 3.63 earned run average and struck out 2,167 batters. Camilo was named to the All-Star team in 5 seasons between 1959 and 1964. Mr. Pascual led the American League in strikeouts three seasons (1961, 1962, and 1963.)

To learn about Camilo Pascual's biography, go to wikipedia.org.
 
Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Al Ferrara Los Angeles Dodgers

On Monday, February 22, 2010, the mailbox had a great prize waiting for me. It is an autographed 1967 Topps Baseball card of Al Ferrara, outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Card number 557 in the 1967 Topps Baseball set of 609 cards. It marks the 461st autograph in my collection.

The Al Ferrara autograph was obtained by sending him the card through the mail on February 12, 2010 and he quickly returned the card signed with a nice blue sharpie. Al also included a signed index card and a note about a game he played. On May 15, 1965, Dick Ellsworth was pitching a no-hitter until the eighth inning when he gave up a walk and an error, then Al Ferrara came up as a pinch hitter and he a 3-run home run. The Dodgers won the game 3-1 and Ferrara had the only hit for the Dodgers.

Al Ferrara played in the major leagues for 8 seasons from 1963 to 1971. He played for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1963 to 1968 and then he was selected by the San Diego Padres in the 1969 expansion draft. Al played for the Padres until 1971, when he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds, where he ended his career that same year. Al Ferrara's career spanned 574 games during which he hit 51 home runs, drove in 198 runs and had a career .259 batting average.

Al "The Bull" Ferrara grew up in Brooklyn, New York and went to school with Joe Torre and Joe Pepitone. He participated in the 1966 World Series and was 1 for 1 in a pinch hitting appearance. Al Ferrara once played piano at Carnegie Hall and appeared on several television shows in the late 1960's. He appeared in 3 episodes of "Batman", an episode of "Gilligan's Island" and one on "Baretta."

To learn more about Al Ferrara's career, go to his biography at wikipedia.org.



Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Don Kessinger Chicago Cubs

Today's entry was inspired by watching him play in the 1969 baseball game yesterday that was shown on MLB Network against the Philadelphia Phillies. It is Don Kessinger, shortstop for the Chicago Cubs, card number 419 in the 1967 Topps Baseball card set.

This autograph was obtained by sending a through the mail request to Don Kessinger to his home in Mississippi on July 2, 2009 and 17 days later, he returned the card signed with a beautiful blue sharpie autograph. Thank you Mr. Kessinger.

Don Kessinger played 16 seasons in the major leagues from 1964 to 1979. He played 11 years for the Chicago Cubs, 2 seasons for the St. Louis Cardinals and 3 for the Chicago White Sox, where he was the player-manager in 1979. Don Kessinger played 2078 games, accumulating 1931 hits, 14 home runs, 527 runs batted in and a career .252 batting average. Don made the All-Star teams in 6 different season from 1968 to 1974 and won the Gold Glove Award for shortstops in 1969 and 1970. Don Kessinger managed the Chicago White Sox for 131 games in 1979 before resigning as manager and retiring as a player. He was replaced by Tony LaRussa.

After leaving the Chicago White Sox, Don Kessinger went back to his alma mater, The University of Mississippi and managed the baseball team for 6 seasons and now he has his own real estate business.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Mickey Lolich Detroit Tigers

Today is February 20, 2010 and one of my best friends, Jim Zylstra, is getting married on this day. In honor of the special occasion, I am displaying a 1967 Topps Autograph Baseball card that was given to me from Jim. It is star pitcher Mickey Lolich of the Detroit Tigers. Card number 88 in the 1967 Topps Baseball set of 609 cards.

Jim was able to get this card autographed for me at a charity function that he attended and Mickey Lolich was there signing. Mickey Lolich signed the card in a bold blue sharpie. Thank you Jim and Mickey.

Mickey Lolich's career spanned 16 seasons from 1963 to 1979. He pitched most of his career for the Detroit Tigers, but also pitched for the New York Mets and San Diego Padres, where he ended his playing days in the major leagues. Mickey's career statistics include 217 wins, a 3.44 earned run average and 2832 strikeouts. A three time All-Star in 1969, 1971 and 1972, Mickey also won the 1968 World Series MVP award for the Detroit Tigers. During the 1968 World Series, Mickey won three games and allowed 5 runs in those complete games. Always a very consistent performer, Mickey won at least 14 games in 10 consecutive seasons and strikeout 200 batters in seven seasons.


Mickey Lolich ranks among the Tigers' all time leaders in many categories, including the following:

• 2,679 strikeouts is #1 on the Tigers all time list
• 39 shutouts is #1 on the Tigers all time list
• 459 games started is #1 on the Tigers all time list
• 329 home runs allowed is #1 on the Tigers all time list

Here is the great story about Mickey Lolich, just click here.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Larry Jansen San Francisco Giants

Today's entry is the first team card that I added to my collection of autographed 1967 Topps baseball cards. It is the San Francisco Giants Team card, #516 and it is signed by their pitching coach, Larry Jansen.

This autograph was obtained with a through the mail request that was sent to Larry Jansen's home in Oregon on September 21, 2009 and he quickly returned the card autographed 7 days later. This was one of Mr. Jansen's last autographs, he passed away on October 10, 2009 at age 89. I feel very fortunate to have this card in my collection. Thank you Mr. Jansen.

Larry Jansen's career lasted 10 seasons from 1947 to 1956. He pitched for the New York Giants and Cincinnati Reds. Larry's career statistics included 122 wins, a career 3.58 earned run average and 842 strikeouts. Larry Jansen participated in two All-Star games in 1950 and 1951. As a rookie in 1947, Larry won 21 games versus 5 losses and finished 2nd in the Rookie of the Year to future Hall of Famer Jackie Robinson. In 1951, Larry Jansen won 23 games for the New York Giants and was a vital part in the comeback against the Brooklyn Dodgers. He was the winning pitcher in a playoff game against the Dodgers, the game known as the "Shot heard 'round the world." In that game, Bobby Thompson hit the game winning home run to send the Giants into the World Series.

After Larry Jansen's playing days were over, he remained close to the game by coaching and managing teams in the minors before becoming the  San Francisco Giants' pitching coach in 1961. Larry Jansen was vital in the development of two future Hall of Famers, Juan Marichal and Gaylord Perry. He was elected to the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 1980.

As interesting facts, Larry Jansen allowed Mickey Mantle's first World Series hit -- a bunt single in Game 2 of the 1951 Series -- and gave up a double to Joe DiMaggio in the eighth inning of Game 6, the final at-bat of the Hall of Famer's career.
Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps New York Mets Rookies Greg Goossen and Bart Shirley

The streak is back! It has been 3 days since I received a new addition to my 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball card set. I went back into my collection and found this dual signed card of New York Mets 1967 Rookie Stars Greg Goossen and Bart Shirley. Card number 287 in the 1967 Topps Baseball card set of 609 subjects.

This autograph was obtained by first sending the card to Bart Shirley on April 7, 2009 and he returned it 17 days later with a nice black autograph. I subsequently mailed the card to Greg Goossen on May 23, 2009 and he returned it 7 days later with a nice blue sharpie signature. Thank you, Mr. Goossen and Mr. Shirley.

Greg Goossen played first base and catcher during his 6 year career. He played for the Mets, the Seattle Pilots, Milwaukee Brewers and ended his career with the Washington Senators. During Greg's career, he batted .241, with 111 hits and 13 home runs. After his baseball career, Greg Goossen was a private detective, boxing corner man (two of his brothers are prominent in boxing), and movie actor, most notably as Gene Hackman's stand-in in more than a dozen films, as well as playing minor on-screen roles in Mr. Baseball (coach), The Replacements, and Get Shorty among many others.

Bart Shirley played shortstop, second base and third base in 75 games during his 4 year career. His career started with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1964 then for the Mets before ended his career back with the Dodgers. Bart Shirley had a career .203 batting average with 11 runs batted in with 33 hits. Bart also played in Japan for two seasons with the Chunichi Dragons in 1971-72. After his career was over, Bart Shirley coached for 5 seasons in the minor leagues before starting his own insurance agency in Texas in 1990.


Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Andy Kosco Minnesota Twins

Today's entry for the blog of 1967 Topps Autographed cards was once traded for yesterday's entry, Al Downing. It is Andy Kosco, outfielder for the Minnesota Twins. Card number 366 in the set of 609 for the 1967 Topps Baseball cards.

The autograph was acquired by sending Andy Kosco a through the mail, TTM, request to his home in Ohio on January 6, 2009. Andy quickly returned the card signed with a blue sharpie 9 days later. Thank you, Mr. Kosco. If you are interested in sending your own requests to players, there is a great website, sportscollectors.net that can help with addresses.

Andy Kosco's career lasted from 1965 to 1974 and he played for seven different teams. Originally drafted by the Detroit Tigers, Andy was able to make it to the major leagues as a member of the Minnesota Twins. He also played for the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, California Angels, Boston Red Sox and finally ending his career with the Cincinnati Reds. He was used as a back up outfielder during most of his career. Andy Kosco was the back up for Hall of Famers Harmon Killebrew while with the Twins and Mickey Mantle during his playing days with the Yankees. Andy's career statistics include a batting average of .236, 73 home runs, and drove in 267 runs in 658 games.

In 1973, Andy Kosco got his only shot at post-season play and went 3-for-10 for the Cincinnati Reds in the National League Championship Series. This was "The Big Red Machine" of Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Tony Perez, Dave Concepcion and Pete Rose that lost the NLCS to the New York Mets in five games.
In Game Two, the Mets' Jon Matlack held this feared lineup to two hits -- both singles by Kosco.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Al Downing New York Yankees

Today's entry for my blog is best remembered for a home run that he gave up, but Al Downing had a nice career that lasted 17 seasons. Card number 308 in the 1967 Topps Baseball card set of 609 cards.

This autograph was obtained by a through the mail (TTM) request to Al Downing at his home in California. I mailed Mr. Downing the card on November 3, 2008 and he graciously returned the card to me 14 days later. He signed the card with a nice blue sharpie autograph. Thank you, Mr. Downing.

Al Downing's career started in 1961 with the New York Yankees and pitched for the Yankees until 1969. He also pitched for the Oakland A's, Milwaukee Brewers, and his last 7 seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His career statistics include 123 wins versus 107 losses, 3.22 earned run average and 1639 strikeouts. Al Downing led the American League with 217 strikeouts in 1964, made the 1967 All-Star team and pitched in 3 World Series. In 1971, Al Downing won the National League Comeback Player of the Year Award while pitching for the Dodgers.

On April 8, 1974, Al Downing gave up Hank Aaron's record breaking 715 home run. See photo below.

To learn more about Al Downing's career, go to his biography at wikipedia.org.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

Jim Fregosi 1967 Topps California Angels

 

Today's entry for the 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball card collection is Jim Fregosi, shortstop for the California Angels. Card number 385 out of 609 different cards in the set.

Jim Fregosi signed this card at his home in Florida after I sent him the card through the mail on July 6, 2009. He returned the card signed with a blue autograph 10 days later. Thank you Mr. Fregosi. Looking to send items to be signed by players, to go sportscollectors.net for current addresses.

Jim Fregosi played 18 seasons in the major leagues from 1961 to 1978. His career started with the Los Angeles/California Angels where he was a 6 time all-star. In the trade bringing future Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan to the Angels, Fregosi went to the New York Mets in 1972. He also played for the Texas Rangers and Pittsburgh Pirates. In 1967, Jim Fregosi won a Gold Glove Award in 1967 as a shortstop. Jim Fregosi's career statistics include .265 career batting average, 151 home runs and 706 runs batted in. Jim Fregosi is one of 28 players (including Joe DiMaggio, Lou Gehrig and George Brett) in major league history to have a hit for the cycle more than once. Hitting for the cycle means having a single, double, triple and home run in the same game. He accomplished the feat on July 28, 1964 and May 20, 1968.

As the California Angels were looking for a manager in 1978, the Pittsburgh Pirates released Fregosi and he became manager at age 36. Jim managed the Angels until 1981, then he also managed the Chicago White Sox from 1986 to 1988, led the Philadelphia Phillies from 1991 to 1996, winning the 1993 National League Pennant, and the Toronto Blue Jays from 1999-2000. His career managerial record is 1028 wins versus 1095 losses.  To learn more about Jim Fregosi, go to his biography at wikipedia.org.
 
Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Fred Valentine Washington Senators

Since today is Sunday February 14th, 2010, as known as Valentine's Day, I found the card in my collections that was most appropriate for the day. It is Fred Valentine, outfielder for the Washington Senators. Card number 64 out of the 1967 Topps Baseball set of 609 cards.

This autographed card was obtained with a through the mail (TTM) request to Fred Valentine at his home in Washington D.C. I mailed him the card on April 7, 2009 and he returned it 9 days later with a nice personalized message and black sharpie signature. Thank you, Mr. Valentine.

Fred "Squeaky" Valentine's career lasted for 7 seasons between 1959 and 1968. His career starting with the Baltimore Orioles in 1959, then he went to the Washington Senators from 1963 to 1968 before ending his career back with the Orioles at the end of 1968. In a total of 533 games, Fred Valentine hit 36 home runs, drove in 138 runs and had a career average of .247. Fred Valentine also played quarterback at Tennessee State University and was an All American. He had four offers from pro baseball teams and three offers from pro football teams, and chose Baltimore as it was the "best" offer. He was teammates at Tennessee State with George Altman, card number 87 in the 1967 Topps Baseball set. I will post a blog about George Altman's autographed card in the near future. To learn more about Fred Valentine go to his biography by clicking here.
 
Looking for great Baltimore Orioles Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Rookie Rich Nye Chicago Cubs

The streak is over! Today, I received the first 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball Card since last week. It is the Cubs 1967 Rookie Card of Rich Nye and John Upham. It is signed by Rich Nye! Card number 608 out of the set of 609 cards.

It was obtained from a reputable dealer on ebay.com and was delivered quickly. It is signed by Rich Nye with a nice blue sharpie. If possible, I will mail the card to John Upham and request his autograph as well. This autograph marks the 453rd signed card in the set.

Rich Nye's career lasted 5 seasons before being ended in 1970 with a rotator cuff injury. He played for the Chicago Cubs, Montreal Expos and St. Louis Cardinals. During his career, he won 26 games and saved 4, had a 3.71 earned run average and struck out 267 batters. His best season was 1967 when he won 13 games. After his playing days were over, Rich Nye became a commodities broker and then went on to become one of the top veterinarians for exotic animals in the United States. If you would like to read about his veterinary practice, click here.

I have found a great article about Rich Nye's pitching career by Dave Hoekstra of the Chicago Sun-Times about Rich Nye winning a game to put the Cubs in first place for the first time in 22 years. I have enclosed the article below.

"When Ex-Cub Rich Nye was a Pup" by Dave Hoekstra:

There's nothing like the first time of being in first place--at least for 22 years.
In July, 1967 Rich Nye was the Cubs starting pitcher when the Cubs held sole posession of first place for the first time since 1945.
I was 12 years old and kept a daily Cubs scrapbook from clippings in all four Chicago newspapers. I Elmer-glued stories of the Cubs coming-out period into a loose leaf notebook. One headline actually read: "CUBS WIN--TIED FOR LEAD!" The Chicago Today newspaper even offered a blank Cubs scrapbook as a promotional item.
"I pitched against Cincinnati in the (nationally televised) 'Game of the Week'," Nye recalled while grinding down a chinchilla's teeth at a suburban veterinarian office. Nye is now one of America's premiere exotic animal veterinarians. Check out this great Jon Sall video of the crafty left hander at work. During our visit, Dr. Nye saw two chinchillas, an iguana and a turtle with an abscess:

"The 'Game of the Week' was the first time my folks (in Northern California) had seen me play," he said. "I don't remember the opposing pitcher. It was a 90 degree day........

"The Cardinals had lost the first game of a double header. Then we won. We went into first place by a half a game. The Cardinals won the second game of the double header and went back into first. The next day Fergie Jenkins won and the Cardinals lost. They ran the (Cubs) flag up (atop the scoreboard) and nobody left the ballpark. We celebrated in the clubhouse."
My friend Mike Murphy, the esteemed afternoon host at WSCR-AM in Chicago was there. "He's exactly right," said Murphy, an original Bleacher Bum. "That was the 'Change The Flags Game.' In 1967 all 10 teams were in one league. Five flags on the left side, first through fifth place, five flags on the right, sixth through 10th."
The Cubs were usually on the right side, but the wrong side of the standings.
"When the game ends the guy in the scoreboard takes the flags down as they still do," Murphy said. "He comes down the little ladder to get out, padlocks the scoreboard and leaves. There's only one problem. There's 40,000 people there. And the left field Bleacher Bums say, 'Wait a minute. We want to see the Cubs flag up top. They're going on the road and it may never happen again.' So we started chanting, 'CHANGE THE FLAG!' like 'THROW IT BACK' today. The whole ballpark started chanting. But the scoreboard man had left and nobody would leave the park. They finally found someone to go back up there to hoist the Cubs flag. They didn't put all 10 back up---just the Cubs flag. Everyone cheered and finally went home."
Nye played under the grizzled watch of Cubs manager Leo Durocher. "Leo the Lip" was from a different era. "There were three or four of us who had college educations," Nye said. "Joe Niekro, who was my roommate. Kenny Holtzman. Frank Reberger. Bill Stoneman, who became General Manager of the Anaheim Angels (they were all pitchers). Leo looked as us a cocky kids off the college campus. He didn't understand how to communicate with us. Baseball wasn't necessarily going to be our career in life. He was used to the guys who came off the ranks of the minor leagues. In those days the minor leagues were huge."
Nye was selected by the Cubs in the 10th round of the 1966 draft, the 840th pick overall. He was a civil engineering graduate of the University of California/Berkley with a nearly straight-A average. Leo was straight, no chaser.
I love this story written my my old friend Ray Sons in the June 1, 1967 edition of the Chicago Daily News.
Sons began, "Handsome Rich Nye, the Cubs bright new pitching star from the land of the Hippies, is a throwback to another era....22-year-old Rich is a square with sharp corners. He shaves. He wears his blond hair cropped short. He dresses with immaculate good taste. And he works hard and thinks without the aid of "acid" or banana."
Groovy.
A young Nye could also put his foot in his mouth. From the Aug. 28, 1967 Daily News, beat writer George Vaas spoke to Nye after beating future Hall of Famer Tom Seaver 3-1 in an important double header at Shea Stadium in New York. "It was one of the most pleasing victories I've had," Nye told Vaas. "Particularly because Tom Seaver is from the University of Southern California and I'm from California. It was like carrying on the traditional rivalry between the schools."
I bet Leo loved hearing that.
Nye played with the Cubs until December, 1969 when he was traded to St. Louis for the immortal Boots Day. Boots joined the Cubs boot hill of center fielders (Cleo James, Jimmy Qualls, Don Young and even Jim Hickman). Nye's career ended later in 1970 with Montreal when he suffered a rotator cuff injury.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Dick Radatz Cleveland Indians The Monster

The streak is up to 5 days now without a new addition for the 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball card set. Without being discouraged, I found a card in my collection to share today. It is Dick Radatz, pitcher for the Cleveland Indians. Card number 174 out of 609 cards.

This card was obtained from a respected dealer on ebay.com on May 20, 2009. It is signed with a blue ballpoint pen. Dick Radatz passed away in 2005 after falling down a flight of stairs at his home in Massachusetts at the age of 67.

Dick "The Monster" or "Moose" Radatz career lasted 8 seasons. He played for the Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians, Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers and Montreal Expos. Known for his tremendous fastball, Dick was used as a relief pitcher his entire career. He was the first pitcher to save 20 games in 4 consecutive seasons. He won the Fireman of the Year Award in 1963 and 1964. He made the American League all star team in those years as well. He still holds the single season record of strikeouts by a relief pitchers with 181 Ks in 157 innings. During his career, Dick Radatz won 52 games, saved 122, struck out 745 batters in 693 innings and had a career 3.80 earned run average.

Dick Radatz was elected to the Boston Red Sox's Hall of Fame in 1997. Find out more about his career at wikipedia.org.  

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Johnny Edwards Cincinnati Reds

Oh no, the streak has reached four days without a new 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball card. So, I went back into my collection to share an autograph for today. It is Johnny Edwards, catcher for the Cincinnati Reds. Card number 202 in the 1967 Topps Baseball card set of 609 cards.

This autograph was obtained by a through the mail request to his home in Texas on December 11, 2008. Johnny Edwards signed the card with a blue sharpie and mailed it back to me 9 days later. Thank you Mr. Edwards for the quick turnaround. If you are interested in getting autographs through the mail, go to sportscollectors.net.

Johnny Edwards' career lasted 14 season between the Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros. He was a three-time all star with the Reds in 1963, 1964 and 1965 and won 2 Gold Glove awards for the Reds. He was replaced after the 1967 season with the arrival of future Hall of Famer Johnny Bench. His career batting statistics include a .242 batting average, 81 home runs, 1,106 hits and 524 runs batted in. Johnny was known for his fielder more than his batting, leading the National League in fielding percentage 4 times during his career. During his career, Johnny Edwards was the catcher for two no-hitters, Jim Maloney's 10 inning gem in 1965 and Ray Washburn's no-no in 1968 while with the Cardinals.  To learn more about Johnny Edwards and his biography, click on his name.

Looking for great Sports memorabilia, apparel and collectibles, check out Dugoutdug Sports Collectibles for your favorite players and teams.

1967 Topps Rico Petrocelli Boston Red Sox

Third day of the streak; no 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball cards in the mailbox today. Not discouraged at all, I know some more will be arriving soon. I went back into my collection and found a card that Red Sox Nation will identify and appreciate. It is of Rico Petrocelli shortstop for the Boston Red Sox. Card number 528 out of the 1967 Topps Baseball card set of 609 subjects.

This autograph was obtained with a through the mail (TTM) request to Rico Petrocelli's home in New Hampshire. I mailed the card on July 20, 2009 and he returned it signed with a beautiful blue sharpie 17 days later. Rico also included his number 6 on the card as a bonus. Definitely a nice addition to my set.

Rico Petrocelli played 15 seasons in the major leagues, all with the Boston Red Sox. He played 9 seasons at shortstop and 6 seasons at third base. He was a vital member of the Impossible Dream team of 1967 which won the American League pennant and lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series 4 games to 3. He hit two home runs in Game 6 of the World Series helping the Red Sox force a game 7. A two-time All Star in 1967 and 1969, Rico hit 210 career home runs, drove in 773 runs and hit .251. Always a slick fielder, he led the league in fielding for shortstops twice and third baseman once. He retired in 1976 and was elected into the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame in 1997. To learn more about Rico Petrocelli career, click on his name.

If you are interested in sending autograph requests through the mail, I recommend sportscollectors.net for addresses and success rates for individual players. 
  
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1967 Topps Chris Zachary Houston Astros

Today marks the second day that the mailbox did not contain any new additions to my 1967 Topps Autograph Baseball card set. Nevertheless, I went into my collection and pulled out a card of a player with roots to Knoxville, Tennessee, my current hometown. It is of Chris Zachary, pitcher for the Houston Astros. Card number 212 in the 1967 Topps Baseball card set of 609 cards.

This autograph was purchased at the sports card show in Detroit, Michigan by my good friend, Jim Zylstra. It has a nice signature with a black sharpie. Chris Zachary passed away in 2003 at age 59 in Knoxville, his hometown.

Chris "Zach" Zachary's career lasted 9 seasons and he played for the Houston Colt 45's/Astros, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, Detroit Tigers and finally, the Pittsburgh Pirates. His career statistics include 10 wins, 4.57 earned run average and 184 strikeouts. He appeared in 108 games during his career, mostly in relief. Chris Zachary once described himself as being "a pretty decent 10th-man on a 10-man staff." He is a member of the Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame. To learn about Chris Zachary, go to his biography at wikipedia.org.

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1967 Topps Mike McCormick Washington Senators San Francisco Giants

 Monday, February 8,  2010 marks the end of the football season and I would like to congratulate the New Orleans Saints for winning Super Bowl XLIV. Now, baseball fans everywhere are getting ready for the start of the 2010 Spring Training Season.

The mailbox today had some 1967 Topps Baseball cards but no autographed 1967 cards, therefore I went back into my collection and found this gem. It is of Mike McCormick, left handed pitcher of the San Francisco Giants. Card number 86 in the set of 609 different cards.

This autograph was obtained through a written request to Mike McCormick at his address in North Carolina. I mailed the card on January 6, 2009 and 8 days later, it arrived back with a nice blue sharpie signature and a personalization "To: Doug". I like when players personalize the card, it will stay in my collection forever.

Mike McCormick's career lasted 16 seasons in the major leagues. He pitched for the New York/San Francisco Giants, Baltimore Orioles, Washington Senators, New York Yankees and finally the Kansas City Royals. His career statistics include 134 wins, a 3.73 earned run average and 1321 strikeouts. Mike made the All-Star team in 1960 and 1961. His best season as a major leaguer occurred in 1967 when he won the National League Cy Young Award and the Comeback Player of the Year Award. After being traded back to the San Francisco Giants at the beginning of the 1967 season, Mike won 22 games, had a 2.85 earned run average, threw 14 complete games, including 5 shutouts and struck out 150 batters. To learn more Mike McCormick's career, go to his biography at wikipedia.org.
 
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1967 Topps Hall of Famer Lou Brock St Louis Cardinals

In honor of this being Super Bowl Sunday, I wanted to share a super addition to my 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball Card set. It is of Hall of Fame outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, Lou Brock. Card number 285 out of the 1967 Topps Baseball card set of 609 cards.

This card was obtained as a gift from my very good friend and baseball enthusiast, Jim "Z" Zylstra. He sent the card to Lou Brock requesting an autograph and Lou graciously signed the card in a beautiful blue sharpie. Lou is an example of a player who knows how to sign a card, signature is very legible and centered in the card.

Lou Brock's career started in 1961 with the Chicago Cubs. He played there until 1964, when he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. In a trade that history calls one of the most lopsided, Brock, Jack Spring and Paul Toth went to the Cardinals in exchange for Ernie Broglio, Bobby Shantz and Doug Clemens. Lou Brock's career blossomed in St. Louis; winning 2 World Series Championships (1964 and 1967), elected to 6 All-Star games and having his number 20 uniform retired by the Cardinals in 1979. His career statistics are very impressive, 3023 hits, .293 batting average, 149 home runs, 900 runs batted in and at the time, the record 938 stolen bases. He led the league in stolen bases eight times and broke Maury Wills single season stolen base record of 104 by stealing 118 bases in 1974. Lou Brock ended his career in 1979 as a member of the Cardinals and in 1985 he was elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

To learn more about Lou Brock's fabulous career, go to wikipedia.org.

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1967 Topps Ron Hansen Chicago White Sox

The mailbox today yielded no new additions to my set of 1967 Topps Autographed baseball cards. Therefore, I went back into my collection to share this card. It is Ron Hansen, shortstop, of the Chicago White Sox. Card number 9 in the 1967 Topps Baseball Card set of 609 cards.

This autograph was obtained through the mail. I sent the card to Ron Hansen at the home in Maryland on December 11, 2008 and I received it back signed on December 18, 2008. A very quick turnaround and a beautiful blue sharpie autograph.

Ron Hansen's career lasted 15 seasons with stints with the Baltimore Orioles, Chicago White Sox, Washington Senators, New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals. Ron battled back injuries most of his career and missed part of several seasons. He also served 6 months as a Marine in 1962 as part of the Cuban Missile Crisis. His career statistics include a .234 batting average, 106 home runs and 501 runs batted in. His best season was 1960 as he made the All-Star team and was named American League Rookie of the Year as a Baltimore Oriole.

Ron was part of two notable trades. In 1963, he was traded with future Hall of Famer Hoyt Wilhelm from the Orioles to the Chicago White Sox for future Hall of Famer Luis Aparicio. His other notable trade was a curious move, in 1968, Hansen was sent to the Senators at pre-season in a deal for infielder Tim Cullen. Then on August 2, he was shipped back to the White Sox for Tim Cullen, making them the only two players in MLB history to be traded for one another twice in the same season. To read more about Ron Hansen, go to wikipedia.org.

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1967 Topps Galen Cisco Boston Red Sox

The streak ended after one day. I received a new addition to my 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball card set in the mailbox today. It is Galen Cisco, pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. Card number 596, a hard to find high number, out of the set of 609 cards.

This autographed card was obtained by mailing Galen Cisco the card to his home in Ohio on January 29, 2010. He signed the card and returned it to me 7 days later with a super black autograph. This marks the 451st autographed card in the set and one step closer to completion.

Galen Cisco's career lasted 7 seasons starting in 1961 with the Boston Red Sox, then he joined the New York Mets from 1962-1965, again with Boston 1967, and the Kansas City Royals in 1969. In a seven-season career, he posted a 25-56 record with a 4.56 earned run average while striking out 325 batters.

Before making the major leagues, Galen Cisco was a two-sport star at the Ohio State University, playing fullback and linebacker for the 1957 National Championship Football team and as a star pitcher on the baseball team. Following his playing retirement, Cisco became a respected pitching coach for the Royals, Montreal Expos, San Diego Padres, Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies. He won 2 World Series Championships while with the Toronto Blue Jays.

To learn more about Galen Cisco's career, read his biography at wikipedia.org and baseball reference.com.

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1967 Topps Al McBean Pittsburgh Pirates

The mailbox was unkind today starting hopefully a short streak of no additions to my 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball card set. Nevertheless, I delved back into my collection to find the only pitcher to pitch in the Major Leagues from the United States Virgin Islands. That is the distinction of Al McBean, pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Card number 203 in the 1967 Topps Baseball set of 609 cards.

This autograph was obtained through a mail request to Al McBean in the Virgin Islands on January 9, 2009 and he returned the card signed with a beautiful blue signature and the "09" inscription after 10 days. Not a bad turnaround for the Post Office.

Al McBean's major league baseball career lasted 10 seasons and he played for the Pirates, San Diego Padres (during their first year) and Los Angeles. Mainly a relief pitcher during his career accumulating 63 saves and posting a 3.13 career earned run average. He also started a couple of the years, winning 67 games for his career while striking out 575. But what really distinguished the St. Thomas native -- whom Red Schoendienst called "the funniest man I've ever seen in a baseball uniform" -- was his love of playing for the crowd. Al had a name as a flashy, "mod" dresser too.

To learn more about Al McBean, read his biography by clicking his name.

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1967 Topps Rusty Staub Mets Houston Astros

The streak is over! There were three different 1967 Topps Autographed cards in the mailbox today. The favorite of the three is that of Rusty Staub, outfielder of the Houston Astros. Card number 73 out of the set of 609 cards. The reason I chose Rusty Staub as the favorite is because finding his autographed card is difficult.

The 1967 Topps Autographed Rusty Staub was obtained from a respected dealer on ebay and arrived in quick time. This marks the 447th autographed card in my collection, still many more to go.

Rusty "Le Grande Orange" Staub's career lasted 23 years and he played on five different teams. His career started in 1963 for the Houston Colt 45's/Astros, then Montreal Expos, New York Mets, Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers. He retired in 1985 with a .279 career batting average, 2716 hits, 292 home runs and 1466 runs batted in. Rusty was named to 6 All-Star teams, inducted into the New York Mets Hall of Fame and the Montreal Expos retired his uniform number 10.

Rusty, Ty Cobb and Gary Sheffield share the distinction of being the only players to hit home runs before turning 20 years old, and after turning 40 years old. To learn more about Rusty Staub and his biography, go to wikipedia.org.

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1967 Topps John Werhas Los Angeles Dodgers

The nothing in the mailbox streak is up to four days, so again I jumped back in my collection of 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball cards to share one of my favorites. It is John Werhas, third baseman of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Card number 514 on the set of 609 cards.

John Werhas signed this card after I mailed it to him care of The Rock Community Church in Yorba Linda, California. John is the Senior Pastor at the church. I mailed him the card on September 8, 2009 and he graciously returned the card signed 13 days later with a great signature as well as "Best Wishes, Doug", "In Christ" and the Bible verse "John 3:16." "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." He also included a signed pamphlet from his church. What a great find in my mailbox and addition to the collection.

Johnny "Peaches" Werhas's baseball career in the Major Leagues did not live up to the potential that he had coming out of University of Southern California where he was a two-sport star. He was a 3 year letterman in baseball and basketball for the USC Trojans. He played parts of 3 years in the Major Leagues for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Angels. His career batting average was .173 and he hit 2 homeruns in limited action. His minor league statistics were more impressive, hitting 151 home runs and batting .281 in 12 seasons. In 1971, Werhas was involved in what was at the time a very unusual trade. Playing for the Taiyo Whales in Japan, he was dealt to the Hawaii Islanders (then in the San Diego Padres system) for Clete Boyer, said at the time to be the first trade between a Japanese and an American team.

To learn about Johnny Werhas, click on his name.

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1967 Topps Bill McCool Cincinnati Reds

The mailbox was unkind today as there were no new additions to my collection. Nevertheless, I went back into my of collection of 1967 Topps Autographed Baseball cards and found a "cool" card to share. It is Bill "Billy" McCool, left handed pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds. Card number 353 out of the set of 609.

I added this card to my collection by sending it to Billy McCool at his address in Florida on January 6, 2009 and received it back 6 days later with a very nice blue signature. Billy also added his #42, a number now retired by all Major League Baseball teams to honor Jackie Robinson, and "Best Wishes" on the card. Very nice surprise and super fast turnaround.

Bill McCool's career lasted 7 years and played for the Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, and the San Diego Padres in 1969, their first season as an expansion team. He won 32 games, saved 58 games, and a career 3.59 earned run average and struck out 475 batters. He was named to the 1966 National League All-Star team. To learn more Bill's career go to wikipedia.org.

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