From the Collection, 2022 Draft Pick Edition: Caleb Ricketts and Connor Staine
Connor Staine (Rockies) and Caleb Ricketts (Phillies) are two 2022 MLB draft picks that I ran across today while sorting some cards.
Collecting Cleveland Baseball Since 1982
Collecting Cleveland Indians Topps team sets from 1952-present, as well as post-war minor and major league autographs.
From the Collection: Andres Mora, 1b, Cleveland Indians
Andres Mora’s career was more than just his four seasons in the majors. When he finally retired from baseball in 1997, he was recognized as one of the greatest power hitters in Mexican League history, and would very likely be the league’s all-time homerun champion if it wasn’t for his four seasons in the majors.
From the Collection: Robin Yount, cf, Milwaukee Brewers
Robin Yount had a fantastic career and deserved to be elected to the Hall of Fame back in 1999. I do think it’s funny that he had almost as many MVP awards (two) as All-Star selections (three).
From the Collection: Josh Bell, if, Los Angeles Dodgers
Josh L. Bell was a prospect in the Dodgers organization in the mid-2000s, and in many ways was a similar prospect to the Guard’s new first baseman. Josh Bell.
Where It All Started: Justin Speier, rp, Cleveland Guardians
Here is it, my first real through-the-mail autograph.
New Arrival: Kyle Manzardo, of, Tampa Bay Rays
I was really excited about this card. Back in 2020 Washington State Baseball played here in Hawaii, and Kyle Manzardo was on the team. He was a decent prospect, but I don’t think anyone expected him to be drafted in the 2nd round of the 2021 draft. And, for whatever reason, I did not get him. Probably the best player that I ever totally whiffed on getting.
New Arrival: Al Leiter, sp, Florida Marlins
Al Leiter spent 19 seasons in the majors (1987-2005). He peaked late in his career, so his prime years were relatively short. But those years were still pretty impressive.
New Arrival: Trevor Hauver, of, Texas Rangers
I have no idea how good of a prospect Rangers OF Trevor Hauver is. Hauver came into this season one of the Ranger’s Top 25 prospects. Between low and high-A he hit only .220, but with showed great pop (17 HR) and great on-base skills (.387).
From the Collection: 2002 Upper Deck Vintage Jim Thome/Roberto Alomar Autograph
Isn’t this a cool card? You can’t go wrong with a card signed by both Jim Thome and Roberto Alomar. The 2002 Upper Deck Vintage set is still, I think, one of the most attractive modern sets ever.
From the Collection: Reggie Jackson, of, Oakland Athletics
I had this card in my collection for years. Then I had an opportunity to get in on a private signing and decided to send this card in. It came out pretty OK.