Deck's by the Decade - 1970's Part Two
1973 Topps was the last set to feature the rare "High Number" cards. One of the nicer features of the card is the players silhouette with their position below the silhouette. Most cards feature an "in action" pose of the player. This set was also the last active card for Willie Mays. What made 1973 Topps a collectors set, was the rookie seasons of three notable players
Mike Schmidt was drafted by the Phillies in the second round in 1971. This would be where he stayed for the next 19 years. After a trade to open up infield space in 1973, Schmidt solidified his spot in the Phillies lineup at third base. His first full season wasn't much to shake at, batting .196, but his power was notable with 18 home runs. After that season, Schmidt never dipped below that number playing a full season. Schmidt amassed 548 homers, while playing (10x) Gold Glove defense for his career. His other accomplishments include three MVP's, one World Series MVP, six Silver Sluggers, and 12 All Star appearances. His number was retired in 1990 by the Phillies and was elected into the Hall of Fame in 1995. His rookie card features two other players, John Hilton and Ron Cey. This card as a PSA10 value of $23,500.
Rich "Goose" Gossage made a name for himself by his interesting moustache and his blistering fastball. Rich's nickname came from how he used to look into the catcher for his signs. His fastball was so effective (estimated 98mph-102mph at its peak), he rarely through his off-speed pitch which was a slurve. He bounced around to eight teams, but was one of the most effective relievers ever. When he retired, he was second in saves, third in games pitched (1,002!), and his ERA didn't dip below 2.62 from 1977-1983. Gossage was a nine time All Star, and captured one World Series. He was elected into the Hall of Fame in 2008. Recently, a PSA10 of his card sold for $3,534.
Dwight Evans was a career Red Sox player, and that helps your value. Evans wasn't a notable prospect, getting drafted in the fifth round in 1969. What made Evans pop was his Gold Glove defense in right field. It wasn't until later in his career that he hit with power, not dipping below 22 homers from 1981-1989. Evans played for the Sox for 19 years, and had one small stint with the Orioles at the end of his career. Evans accolades include three All Stars, two Silver Sluggers, and eight Gold Gloves. His rookie card shares spots with other rookie outfielders Alonza Bumbry and Charlie Spikes. A PSA10 of this card is estimated at $1,150. Any Red Sox fan should get this card.
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