Dec 14, 2009
Dec 5, 2009
Nov 18, 2009
3 On Card Autos: Baseball Outside of Anaheim
It started over at Dinged Corners and has since spread like wildfire through the card blogging world. The question they posed, "What are your 3 favorite on card autographs?". I was intrigued immediately, but realized right away, I'd never be able to narrow to just 3. So, being the rule breaker that I am, I decided to break mine into categories. My 4 categories: Angels autos, Baseball outside of Anaheim, Football and non-sports.
Today: Baseball Outside of Anaheim
I know it's hard to believe, but they do play baseball outside of Anaheim and over the years I've liked and respected a number of players who never donned the Halo.
1. Kirby Puckett
This card is one of my favorites for a number of reasons. The 1985 Topps Puckett was one of the first big rookie cards I ever got my hands on in my early days of collecting. It's almost impossible for a young kid to not be won over by a chubby guy named Kirby and when he ends up being an extremely exciting player at bat and in the field, you've got a perfect combination. This actual card is of course a reprint from the 2001 Topps Archives release and features a huge autograph from Kirby. This autograph couldn't be a better match to the man. Large, bold and rounded.
2. Bip Roberts
Readers of this gutty, little blog are well aware of my infatuation with Leon "Bip" Roberts. This card was sent to me by Rob of Padrographs and instantly became one of my favorites. Before Rod, I was Bipless in the autograph department, but thanks to his generosity I now have 2. Bold signature - Check. Hat placed lazily atop head - Check. The grin of a young man who knows he's destined for greatness - Check. What's not to love?
3. Ken Griffey Jr.
This card will get a more proper treatment in the near future, but I couldn't just ignore this card when it comes to favorite on card autographs. As you might be able to tell by the monolithic encasement, this card is my holy grail. At the age of 12 my father took me to my first baseball card show in Anaheim and the headliners doing the signing were Ken Griffey Jr. and his father. I had no interest in Sr., sorry to the old-timers, but he wasn't even on my radar. For me it was all about The Kid. This card went from Ken's hand, to mine and within minutes into this monstrosity of a case. Ever since that moment I've been paralyzed by fear every time I've even considered removing it. Because of the case, the scan is horrible, but trust me, this card is as good as it gets.
And so ends my on card autograph journey. Thanks to the ladies of Dinged Corners for making this all a reality with their fabulous idea.
Go Halos!
Today: Baseball Outside of Anaheim
I know it's hard to believe, but they do play baseball outside of Anaheim and over the years I've liked and respected a number of players who never donned the Halo.
1. Kirby Puckett
This card is one of my favorites for a number of reasons. The 1985 Topps Puckett was one of the first big rookie cards I ever got my hands on in my early days of collecting. It's almost impossible for a young kid to not be won over by a chubby guy named Kirby and when he ends up being an extremely exciting player at bat and in the field, you've got a perfect combination. This actual card is of course a reprint from the 2001 Topps Archives release and features a huge autograph from Kirby. This autograph couldn't be a better match to the man. Large, bold and rounded.
2. Bip Roberts
Readers of this gutty, little blog are well aware of my infatuation with Leon "Bip" Roberts. This card was sent to me by Rob of Padrographs and instantly became one of my favorites. Before Rod, I was Bipless in the autograph department, but thanks to his generosity I now have 2. Bold signature - Check. Hat placed lazily atop head - Check. The grin of a young man who knows he's destined for greatness - Check. What's not to love?
3. Ken Griffey Jr.
This card will get a more proper treatment in the near future, but I couldn't just ignore this card when it comes to favorite on card autographs. As you might be able to tell by the monolithic encasement, this card is my holy grail. At the age of 12 my father took me to my first baseball card show in Anaheim and the headliners doing the signing were Ken Griffey Jr. and his father. I had no interest in Sr., sorry to the old-timers, but he wasn't even on my radar. For me it was all about The Kid. This card went from Ken's hand, to mine and within minutes into this monstrosity of a case. Ever since that moment I've been paralyzed by fear every time I've even considered removing it. Because of the case, the scan is horrible, but trust me, this card is as good as it gets.
And so ends my on card autograph journey. Thanks to the ladies of Dinged Corners for making this all a reality with their fabulous idea.
Go Halos!
Nov 16, 2009
3 On Card Autos: The Angel Autos
It started over at Dinged Corners and has since spread like wildfire through the card blogging world. The question they posed, "What are your 3 favorite on card autographs?". I was intrigued immediately, but realized right away, I'd never be able to narrow to just 3. So, being the rule breaker that I am, I decided to break mine into categories. My 4 categories: Angels autos, Baseball outside of Anaheim, Football and non-sports.
Today: The Angel Autos
Choosing just 3 Angel on card autographs proved to be too difficult for me, so I went with 3 and an honorable mention. Even so, I could have filled up this page with another dozen. Restraint isn't exactly one the traits that come to mind when speaking of me.
We'll start with the honorable mention, Wally Joyner.
The scan doesn't do this card justice, but since it's still encased in the plastic tomb provided by Topps, this was the best I could do. In person, this card just looks so clean and the signature pops out. Speaking of the signature, would you expect anything less elegant from the Mormon slugger?
Now onto the main event. In no particular order.
1. Jim Abbott
Unfortunately, this is another card in which the scan does it no justice. For whatever reason, chrome and scanners never quite work correctly. Had I been a bit less lazy, I'd have used the camera, but oh well, this is what you get with me. Love the signature, love the uniform, love the pose. There was something about watching Abbott as he transitioned from pitcher to fielder that just left you in awe. I still can't figure out how a guy with one hand makes the decision to become a pitcher and then not only does so, but becomes a successful major leaguer.
2. Garret Anderson
I've already espoused my love for Garret Anderson, but this card is cool for more than just the player featured. The card is a commemoration of perhaps the greatest moment for us Halo fans, the 2002 World Series. If you're an Angel fan you already know why Garret is labeled as "World Series Hero" on this card, if you're not an Angel fan, well, you should be.
3. Luis Polonia
Was there really any doubt that this card and this player would end up on my list? This card was the first ever entry in my series of "Cards that Define Me". A series that never really took off and I really need to get back to. Luis signed the card for me at a fan appreciation day and instantly became a centerpiece of my collection. I could go on, but there's no need. Spend more than two minutes on my site and you'll become fully aware of my love for the man with the jheri curl mullet.
There you have it, 4 Angel on card autos for the price of 3. How could you go wrong?
Go Halos!
Today: The Angel Autos
Choosing just 3 Angel on card autographs proved to be too difficult for me, so I went with 3 and an honorable mention. Even so, I could have filled up this page with another dozen. Restraint isn't exactly one the traits that come to mind when speaking of me.
We'll start with the honorable mention, Wally Joyner.
The scan doesn't do this card justice, but since it's still encased in the plastic tomb provided by Topps, this was the best I could do. In person, this card just looks so clean and the signature pops out. Speaking of the signature, would you expect anything less elegant from the Mormon slugger?
Now onto the main event. In no particular order.
1. Jim Abbott
Unfortunately, this is another card in which the scan does it no justice. For whatever reason, chrome and scanners never quite work correctly. Had I been a bit less lazy, I'd have used the camera, but oh well, this is what you get with me. Love the signature, love the uniform, love the pose. There was something about watching Abbott as he transitioned from pitcher to fielder that just left you in awe. I still can't figure out how a guy with one hand makes the decision to become a pitcher and then not only does so, but becomes a successful major leaguer.
2. Garret Anderson
I've already espoused my love for Garret Anderson, but this card is cool for more than just the player featured. The card is a commemoration of perhaps the greatest moment for us Halo fans, the 2002 World Series. If you're an Angel fan you already know why Garret is labeled as "World Series Hero" on this card, if you're not an Angel fan, well, you should be.
3. Luis Polonia
Was there really any doubt that this card and this player would end up on my list? This card was the first ever entry in my series of "Cards that Define Me". A series that never really took off and I really need to get back to. Luis signed the card for me at a fan appreciation day and instantly became a centerpiece of my collection. I could go on, but there's no need. Spend more than two minutes on my site and you'll become fully aware of my love for the man with the jheri curl mullet.
There you have it, 4 Angel on card autos for the price of 3. How could you go wrong?
Go Halos!
Nov 15, 2009
3 On Card Autos: The Football Edition
It started over at Dinged Corners and has since spread like wildfire through the card blogging world. The question they posed, "What are your 3 favorite on card autographs?". I was intrigued immediately, but realized right away, I'd never be able to narrow to just 3. So, being the rule breaker that I am, I decided to break mine into categories. My 4 categories: Angels autos, Baseball outside of Anaheim, Football and non-sports.
Today: The Football Autos
I don't dabble in the collecting of football cards too much. I just don't have the funds or desire to chase it all down. That being said, I have added a few autographs over the years and a couple of them standout.
1. Marshall Faulk.
My love for Marshall Faulk has nothing to do with the uniform he's wearing on this card, but rather the uniform he wore for three years prior to entering the NFl. The scarlet and black of San Diego State University. As an Aztec alum, we don't have the opportunity to cheer for our football team all that often. But what we do have is Marshall Faulk. One of the greatest running backs in NCAA and NFL history. I could throw stats at you, but there's no need. Marshall Faulk is simply a beast.
2. Henry Ellard
You can have your Jerry Rice and John Taylor, your Mark Clayton and Mark Duper or any other combo you choose. For me, it was all about Henry Ellard and Willie "Flipper" Anderson. A dynamic duo of epic proportions. Hell, these two made Jim Everett into a Pro Bowler. It was a sad day in Anaheim when the Rams left town, but thank God they did. I don't how many more years of multi-purpose stadium baseball I could have made it through.
3. Christian Okoye
For those of us who grew up playing Tecmo Super Bowl on the Nintendo, Bo Jackson was easily the most dominant video game figure in our lives. The problem was that when you played against your friends, Bo wasn't exactly a secret and you'd inevitably get into a tussle over who got to play with the Raiders and who was left with a lesser team. The "Nigerian Nightmare" was a more than adequate backup plan for me. Oh yeah, and he wasn't exactly boring to watch on the real field as well.
3 on card beauties of 3 fantastic players. An Aztec legend, one of the great receivers of my childhood and maybe the second best Tecmo player ever.
Today: The Football Autos
I don't dabble in the collecting of football cards too much. I just don't have the funds or desire to chase it all down. That being said, I have added a few autographs over the years and a couple of them standout.
1. Marshall Faulk.
My love for Marshall Faulk has nothing to do with the uniform he's wearing on this card, but rather the uniform he wore for three years prior to entering the NFl. The scarlet and black of San Diego State University. As an Aztec alum, we don't have the opportunity to cheer for our football team all that often. But what we do have is Marshall Faulk. One of the greatest running backs in NCAA and NFL history. I could throw stats at you, but there's no need. Marshall Faulk is simply a beast.
2. Henry Ellard
You can have your Jerry Rice and John Taylor, your Mark Clayton and Mark Duper or any other combo you choose. For me, it was all about Henry Ellard and Willie "Flipper" Anderson. A dynamic duo of epic proportions. Hell, these two made Jim Everett into a Pro Bowler. It was a sad day in Anaheim when the Rams left town, but thank God they did. I don't how many more years of multi-purpose stadium baseball I could have made it through.
3. Christian Okoye
For those of us who grew up playing Tecmo Super Bowl on the Nintendo, Bo Jackson was easily the most dominant video game figure in our lives. The problem was that when you played against your friends, Bo wasn't exactly a secret and you'd inevitably get into a tussle over who got to play with the Raiders and who was left with a lesser team. The "Nigerian Nightmare" was a more than adequate backup plan for me. Oh yeah, and he wasn't exactly boring to watch on the real field as well.
3 on card beauties of 3 fantastic players. An Aztec legend, one of the great receivers of my childhood and maybe the second best Tecmo player ever.
Nov 14, 2009
3 On Card Autos: The Non-Sports Edition
It started over at Dinged Corners and has since spread like wildfire through the card blogging world. The question they posed, "What are your 3 favorite on card autographs?". I was intrigued immediately, but realized right away, I'd never be able to narrow to just 3. So, being the rule breaker that I am, I decided to break mine into categories. My 4 categories: Angels autos, Baseball outside of Anaheim, Football and non-sports.
Today: Non-sports autographs.
1. In today's collecting world, it's almost impossible to talk non-sports autographs and not turn immediately to Allen and Ginter. So where better to start than with this little slice of genius.
First, I love Jeopardy! and can remember spending numerous nights laying on the floor in my family's living room as my parents battled it out over an episode. The show already had a place in my heart, but then Ken Jennings arrived and suddenly Jeopardy! was the biggest part of my television viewing. The wife and I would sit stunned as Ken just obliterated the competition. 74 straight wins, over 3 million in earnings. Truly hall of fame numbers.
2. Sticking with the Allen and Ginter theme, we have a man who I wouldn't even know exists without this card set.
The man is a world champion in the world of beard growing. Did you even know this country had a Beard Team USA before this card was released. As a man who is a fan of the pogonological arts, this man is my hero.
3.Finally, a break from the Allen and Ginter, but that in no way diminishes the sweetness of this autograph.
Adam Carolla can best be described as a comedy God. OK, that may be a bit excessive, but I love the guy's humor. Whether it was as a co-host on Loveline or The Man Show, or his time as a morning radio host, I can't get enough of the guy. Combine that with this card immortalizing his turn as Death of Family Guy and you've got a winner. I was raised on the Simpsons, but I was swept up in Family Guy almost immediately. Now if i could just find a card of the first voice of Death, Norm Macdonald.
There they are, my first of 4 installments of my 3 favorite on-card autographs.
Today: Non-sports autographs.
1. In today's collecting world, it's almost impossible to talk non-sports autographs and not turn immediately to Allen and Ginter. So where better to start than with this little slice of genius.
First, I love Jeopardy! and can remember spending numerous nights laying on the floor in my family's living room as my parents battled it out over an episode. The show already had a place in my heart, but then Ken Jennings arrived and suddenly Jeopardy! was the biggest part of my television viewing. The wife and I would sit stunned as Ken just obliterated the competition. 74 straight wins, over 3 million in earnings. Truly hall of fame numbers.
2. Sticking with the Allen and Ginter theme, we have a man who I wouldn't even know exists without this card set.
The man is a world champion in the world of beard growing. Did you even know this country had a Beard Team USA before this card was released. As a man who is a fan of the pogonological arts, this man is my hero.
3.Finally, a break from the Allen and Ginter, but that in no way diminishes the sweetness of this autograph.
Adam Carolla can best be described as a comedy God. OK, that may be a bit excessive, but I love the guy's humor. Whether it was as a co-host on Loveline or The Man Show, or his time as a morning radio host, I can't get enough of the guy. Combine that with this card immortalizing his turn as Death of Family Guy and you've got a winner. I was raised on the Simpsons, but I was swept up in Family Guy almost immediately. Now if i could just find a card of the first voice of Death, Norm Macdonald.
There they are, my first of 4 installments of my 3 favorite on-card autographs.
Nov 13, 2009
Don't leave me Lackey!
I can't quite understand the feeling deep in my gut. It's sort of a mixture of dread, anger and disappointment. John Lackey's a free agent and from all of the various reports, it doesn't look good for the little team out in Anaheim. For some reason the Angels weren't aggressive in an attempt to re-sign Big John and despite a season of injuries, Lackey finished strong and was absolutely amazing in the postseason. So why exactly are the Angels not the front runner to sign him and keep him as an Angel forever?
Dear God, the man won game 7 of the World Series as a rookie. There should be no question as to his worth. I understand that the Yankees overpaid AJ Burnett and that's now causing to John to look for even more cash, so do it. DO IT!
What's most frustrating is the names that are being thrown around as suitors for Lackey. I get that the Yankees can bid on anyone and instantly become frontrunners, but the Mariners? The Rangers? The Brewers? Are you kidding me? Back up the truck and sign this guy! If I have to watch John Lackey pitch for the Seattle stinkin' Mariners, I'm gonna throw up in my mouth a little bit.
So this is my plea to Arte, sing your ace!!! If we're ever going to overtake the Yankees or the Red Sox, we have to have an ace, a number 1 guy to lead us in the playoffs. That man is Big John Lackey, winner of Game 7 of the 2002 World Series.
Go Halos!
Nov 5, 2009
Welcome Back Bob
If you watched the playoffs at all and caught an Angels game, you've probably heard ad nauseum that Bobby Abreu was the sole reason for the Angels offensive turn-around and sudden acceptance of the idea of taking a pitch. He did have an impact on the team this year, but I would have appreciated it a bit more if I didn't have Joe Buck telling me everytime Bob stepped to the plate.
Well, he's back for two more years, although the financial details haven't come out quite yet. Abreu was a great bargain signing last season, hopefully this new deal won't turn into a situation where we're overpaying an aging player on his way out. I'll hold out hope that Bobby will continue to produce and we can all look forward to Joe Buck letting us know just how patience Bobby is and how that has revolutionized the game of baseball.
Go Halos!
*Sigh* Congrats to the champs
So the Yankees have won another World Series. Whoopty Doo!
I should be happy for their fans, but I'm having trouble mustering the fake enthusiasm. I realize you had to "suffer" through a few years in the 80's without a championship, but that doesn't exactly impress me. Let's face it, it's easy to be a Yankee fan. Your team spends ridiculous amounts of money and if you have an off year, you can be guaranteed that your team will throw more money at the issue. This off-season alone, we all know that either Jason Bay or Matt Holliday will likely end up playing left field for you. Oh and that high priced Cuban defector, why do I feel he'll end up at Yankee Stadium next April. And I don't even want to think about the possibility of Lackey or Figgins heading to the Bronx.
But it's time for me to put aside my Yankee negativity and look at one of the few bright spots in Yankee history, at least from this Halos fan's perspective. A little guy who goes by the name of Luis Polonia.
So while I find most everything about the Yankees to be vile, I will celebrate one of the great players of our day, Luis Polonia. Sure, he probably wouldn't fit in with the current crop of multi-millionaires, but he'd at least make them a little more likable.
As for my own team, it was a roller coaster year, but I one I enjoyed immensely. It started with the tragedy of Nick Adenhart, but the season ended with a number of triumphs. Although losing to the Yankees was tough, the sweep of the Red Sox was a really sweet moment. Perhaps my favorite moment of the season was Vladdy's single up the middle against Papelbon, that brought about the comeback victory. All the more satisfying thanks to Boston trotting out Dave Henderson to throw out the first pitch, a slap in the face to all Angel fans.
So for the most part, the season was a success, unfortunately with a number of free agents likely headed out of town, it could be a rough off-season. Oh well, we'll keep the faith and light up the halo again in 2010.
Go Halos!
I should be happy for their fans, but I'm having trouble mustering the fake enthusiasm. I realize you had to "suffer" through a few years in the 80's without a championship, but that doesn't exactly impress me. Let's face it, it's easy to be a Yankee fan. Your team spends ridiculous amounts of money and if you have an off year, you can be guaranteed that your team will throw more money at the issue. This off-season alone, we all know that either Jason Bay or Matt Holliday will likely end up playing left field for you. Oh and that high priced Cuban defector, why do I feel he'll end up at Yankee Stadium next April. And I don't even want to think about the possibility of Lackey or Figgins heading to the Bronx.
But it's time for me to put aside my Yankee negativity and look at one of the few bright spots in Yankee history, at least from this Halos fan's perspective. A little guy who goes by the name of Luis Polonia.
So while I find most everything about the Yankees to be vile, I will celebrate one of the great players of our day, Luis Polonia. Sure, he probably wouldn't fit in with the current crop of multi-millionaires, but he'd at least make them a little more likable.
As for my own team, it was a roller coaster year, but I one I enjoyed immensely. It started with the tragedy of Nick Adenhart, but the season ended with a number of triumphs. Although losing to the Yankees was tough, the sweep of the Red Sox was a really sweet moment. Perhaps my favorite moment of the season was Vladdy's single up the middle against Papelbon, that brought about the comeback victory. All the more satisfying thanks to Boston trotting out Dave Henderson to throw out the first pitch, a slap in the face to all Angel fans.
So for the most part, the season was a success, unfortunately with a number of free agents likely headed out of town, it could be a rough off-season. Oh well, we'll keep the faith and light up the halo again in 2010.
Go Halos!
Oct 22, 2009
Exhale.
This has been way too stressful. It doesn't help that our closer is Fuentesaurus Rex and there closer is the greatest of all-time. Was it really necessary for A-Rod to turn into Reggie Jackson this post-season for the first time in his career?
Go Halos!
Oct 11, 2009
Bye Bye Boston!
Man, that was sweet.
The wife and I went to game 1 in Anaheim and had the time of our lives. Today's ninth inning though, was almost as sweet, even from 3,000 miles away. Love those Halos! More to come when I can breathe again.
Go Halos!
Oct 3, 2009
Another Reason to Love Baseball
For myself and I think most baseball card collectors, the thing that hooked us in wasn't the cardboard as much as it was the sport. We begin as baseball fans and eventually our fanaticism leads us to begin devouring everything baseball related. As a kid it began for me with baseball cards, but then it became collecting mini-helmets and authentic hats, and playing strat-o-matic baseball. As I got older, I gave up on some of my collections and turned to fantasy baseball. And after all these years, i find myself going back to the baseball cards and being excited when I can get ice cream at the stadium, knowing it means a mini Angels helmet.
I love baseball for more reasons than I could possibly begin to count right now, but one of them reared its head this week...rookie hazing. Whereas in other sports, hazing seems to take a financial toll (rookies picking up insane dinner bills for their teammates) or an emotional toll (forcing a guy to buy donuts, etc. every morning while carrying the bags of half the teams), baseball seems to do it the right way. In baseball, hazing is about one thing and one thing only, embarrassment.
I give you, the 2009 Angels rookies in all their glory. What makes this even more special this year was that players had to wear their unique outfits in front of a sold out stadium for the Angels playoff rally.
Chris Pettit in pretty pink dress.
30 year old rookie Matt Palmer, appropriately sports the big baby outfit.
Sean O'Sullivan and Trevol Bell make their way off the field to the bus. Torii Hunter's face is priceless and fits well with a few of his past Allen and Ginter cards.
Trevor Bell is Reno 911 gear is perhaps the best. Very cool to see him embracing the light-hearted fun and not sulking through it.
In a season that spans up to 8 months at times, having some fun and releasing the tension is definitely needed.
Go Halos!
I love baseball for more reasons than I could possibly begin to count right now, but one of them reared its head this week...rookie hazing. Whereas in other sports, hazing seems to take a financial toll (rookies picking up insane dinner bills for their teammates) or an emotional toll (forcing a guy to buy donuts, etc. every morning while carrying the bags of half the teams), baseball seems to do it the right way. In baseball, hazing is about one thing and one thing only, embarrassment.
I give you, the 2009 Angels rookies in all their glory. What makes this even more special this year was that players had to wear their unique outfits in front of a sold out stadium for the Angels playoff rally.
Chris Pettit in pretty pink dress.
30 year old rookie Matt Palmer, appropriately sports the big baby outfit.
Sean O'Sullivan and Trevol Bell make their way off the field to the bus. Torii Hunter's face is priceless and fits well with a few of his past Allen and Ginter cards.
Trevor Bell is Reno 911 gear is perhaps the best. Very cool to see him embracing the light-hearted fun and not sulking through it.
In a season that spans up to 8 months at times, having some fun and releasing the tension is definitely needed.
Go Halos!
Sep 29, 2009
Celebration
There's a better quality video on mlb.com, but I couldn't figure out how to embed it, so I went the youtube route. Just a cool moment for an Angels fan.
(Of course, I have mixed feelings about guys running out with beers in hand to a memorial for a young man who was killed by a drunk driver, but the sentiment far outweighs that.)
Sep 28, 2009
Jul 14, 2009
Figgy an All-Star
After being passed up multiple times in the last few days, Chone Figgins is now an All-Star thanks to an infection in Evan Longoria's finger. Congrats to Chone, hopefully he actually gets to play in the game.
Jul 10, 2009
Seven Days of Salmon: Day 7
While on vacation, I've decided to treat you, the loyal readers of I Heart Halos! to seven glorious days of Tim Salmon cards. I do this to not only honor the greatest of all Halos, but to honor you.
Day 7: Rookie/Rookie-ish Cards, Along With My Favorite Tim Salmon Card of All-Time
1993 Donruss #176 Rated Rookie
For a collector who grew up in the the 80s, there's nothing quite like coming across a Rated Rookie in your pack. Even today it gives this card a little something extra. The card design is nothing special and the image itself lacks any excitement. It almost looks as if Tim hit a sharp liner to the second baseman and is looking on in a bit of disappointment as the catch is made. One cool part of this card is that Tim is wearing a uniform from the 1992 season, a season he only played 23 games for the Angels. In 1993 the Angels switched logos to an interlocking CA and overhauled their entire look. I miss this look.
1993 Fleer Ultra #523
Here we see a 1993 rookie card that features the 1993 uniform rather than the 1992 uniform seen on the Donruss issue. In 1993 Ultra was a "premium" set, so I rarely got my hands on these cards, outside of a few packs in 1991 and 1992. The 93 design was essentially a slightly different colored variation of the 92 design, but not of that's important now. There's nothing that amazing about this card, but I do like the small rookie ribbon in the top corner, always caught your eyes back in the day.
1994 Topps Rookie Cup #397
Although this isn't a rookie card of Salmon, it does carry the infamous Rookie Cup in the corner, which was always a bonus to me as a young collector. I remember being about as excited for these Rookie Cup cards as I was for any other cards when I was young. Sometimes you were left scratching your head as to how certain players made it onto the list. Here's a look at the other memebers of the 1993 Topps All-Rookie Team:
* Mike Piazza, C, Los Angeles Dodgers
* J.T. Snow, 1B, California Angels
* Carlos García, 2B, Pittsburgh Pirates
* Mike Lansing, 3B, Montreal Expos
* Wil Cordero, SS, Montreal Expos
* Jeff Conine, OF, Florida Marlins
* Wayne Kirby, OF, Cleveland Indians
* Tim Salmon, OF, California Angels
* Greg McMichael, RHP, Atlanta Braves
* Steve Cooke, LHP, Pittsburgh Pirates
Two Halos, always a bonus. Not exactly the future stars of Major League Baseball, outside of Piazza and Salmon, although Conine was a very solid player for a number of years.
1993 Upper Deck Star Rookie Checklist #1
This is by far, my favorite Tim Salmon card in the history of all cards featuring Tim Salmon. How can any right minded person not love this card? The majestic orange sky, the big A with halo over Tim's head, the shot making Tim look larger than life and the old school 1992 uniform. Just a perfect image and a great looking card. I desperately need to get my hands on this card in better condition, as this one has some chipping along the black border. I'm not one for hyperbole, but this may be the most perfect baseball card ever made.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
Tim hit 2 home runs in Game 2 of the 2002 World Series. His second home run put the Angels ahead for good in an 11-10 slugfest against the Giants.
Enjoy #2.
Down 3 games to 2, the Angels had to win their final two games at home to clinch their first World Series victory. Salmon had a great series, hitting .346 with an OPS of 1.067. At the time, he was the active player with the most number of games played without reaching the postseason.
Tim Salmon is and forever will be, Mr. Angel.
So ends Day 7, the final day of the Seven Days of Salmon. I hope these actually posted and if they did, I hope you enjoyed them.
Go Halos!
Day 7: Rookie/Rookie-ish Cards, Along With My Favorite Tim Salmon Card of All-Time
1993 Donruss #176 Rated Rookie
For a collector who grew up in the the 80s, there's nothing quite like coming across a Rated Rookie in your pack. Even today it gives this card a little something extra. The card design is nothing special and the image itself lacks any excitement. It almost looks as if Tim hit a sharp liner to the second baseman and is looking on in a bit of disappointment as the catch is made. One cool part of this card is that Tim is wearing a uniform from the 1992 season, a season he only played 23 games for the Angels. In 1993 the Angels switched logos to an interlocking CA and overhauled their entire look. I miss this look.
1993 Fleer Ultra #523
Here we see a 1993 rookie card that features the 1993 uniform rather than the 1992 uniform seen on the Donruss issue. In 1993 Ultra was a "premium" set, so I rarely got my hands on these cards, outside of a few packs in 1991 and 1992. The 93 design was essentially a slightly different colored variation of the 92 design, but not of that's important now. There's nothing that amazing about this card, but I do like the small rookie ribbon in the top corner, always caught your eyes back in the day.
1994 Topps Rookie Cup #397
Although this isn't a rookie card of Salmon, it does carry the infamous Rookie Cup in the corner, which was always a bonus to me as a young collector. I remember being about as excited for these Rookie Cup cards as I was for any other cards when I was young. Sometimes you were left scratching your head as to how certain players made it onto the list. Here's a look at the other memebers of the 1993 Topps All-Rookie Team:
* Mike Piazza, C, Los Angeles Dodgers
* J.T. Snow, 1B, California Angels
* Carlos García, 2B, Pittsburgh Pirates
* Mike Lansing, 3B, Montreal Expos
* Wil Cordero, SS, Montreal Expos
* Jeff Conine, OF, Florida Marlins
* Wayne Kirby, OF, Cleveland Indians
* Tim Salmon, OF, California Angels
* Greg McMichael, RHP, Atlanta Braves
* Steve Cooke, LHP, Pittsburgh Pirates
Two Halos, always a bonus. Not exactly the future stars of Major League Baseball, outside of Piazza and Salmon, although Conine was a very solid player for a number of years.
1993 Upper Deck Star Rookie Checklist #1
This is by far, my favorite Tim Salmon card in the history of all cards featuring Tim Salmon. How can any right minded person not love this card? The majestic orange sky, the big A with halo over Tim's head, the shot making Tim look larger than life and the old school 1992 uniform. Just a perfect image and a great looking card. I desperately need to get my hands on this card in better condition, as this one has some chipping along the black border. I'm not one for hyperbole, but this may be the most perfect baseball card ever made.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
Tim hit 2 home runs in Game 2 of the 2002 World Series. His second home run put the Angels ahead for good in an 11-10 slugfest against the Giants.
Enjoy #2.
Down 3 games to 2, the Angels had to win their final two games at home to clinch their first World Series victory. Salmon had a great series, hitting .346 with an OPS of 1.067. At the time, he was the active player with the most number of games played without reaching the postseason.
Tim Salmon is and forever will be, Mr. Angel.
So ends Day 7, the final day of the Seven Days of Salmon. I hope these actually posted and if they did, I hope you enjoyed them.
Go Halos!
Jul 9, 2009
Seven Days of Salmon: Day 6
While on vacation, I've decided to treat you, the loyal readers of I Heart Halos! to seven glorious days of Tim Salmon cards. I do this to not only honor the greatest of all Halos, but to honor you.
Day 6: Cards I REALLY Like (Creative, I know.)
1993 Flair #177
I love the minimalism of the design on this card. The classy Flair font adorns the brand name as well as Tim's last name on the card. The full bleed design is nice and I like the main image of Tim which shows Salmon admiring his shot to the opposite field gap. What takes this card to whole other level is the disembodied Salmon that appears to be looking down at himself in some sort of out of body baseball experience. Perhaps this is the secret to Tim's success, a sort of Angels in the Outfield approach to baseball.
1999 Topps Gold Label #29
I recently posted the Darin Erstad card from this set and remarked then on how much I like the design for 1999 Topps Gold Label. It just feels like a premium card, heavy card stock, a non-distracting rainbow shine, dual images of Tim that don't compete with each other, and the Angel logo in the background. Despite this being probably my least favorite Angel logo of all-time, it always looks good being slightly covered up by the player images. I need to get myself on eBay and purchase this set.
1996 Upper Deck V.J. Lovero Showcase #VJ16
Maybe one of the coolest cards made for a mid 90s Halo fan. The image of Garret Anderson, Jim Edmonds and Tim Salmon, the outfield that was supposed to bring championships and respectability to the Angels for years to become. They all did get their championships, although only the corner outfielders got theirs with the Angels. Besides bringing together the three biggest Angels stars of the mid 90s, the picture itself is cool, playing off the Angel theme, with each player bringing his hand and glove together in a prayer-like scene, looking off in deep contemplation. Just plain cool.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
As a young man, Salmon's favorite players were Ryne Sandberg, Dale Murphy and Steve Garvey.
In Cal Ripken's record setting 2,131st straight game, Salmon went 3-4, with a home run and a double.
Tim hit a walk off Grand Slam in the bottom of the 11th against the Indians in April of 1997.
Tim made the most money in a single season of his career in 2005. He earned over 10 million dollars that season and played in zero games. In 2006, he made 400,000 dollars and played in 76 games.
Won the Silver Slugger Award in 1995.
Tim's favorite sports announcer is Vin Scully.
Quote from Tim: "Be a dreamer, that's where you'll find your passion for the game."
So ends Day 6 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Day 6: Cards I REALLY Like (Creative, I know.)
1993 Flair #177
I love the minimalism of the design on this card. The classy Flair font adorns the brand name as well as Tim's last name on the card. The full bleed design is nice and I like the main image of Tim which shows Salmon admiring his shot to the opposite field gap. What takes this card to whole other level is the disembodied Salmon that appears to be looking down at himself in some sort of out of body baseball experience. Perhaps this is the secret to Tim's success, a sort of Angels in the Outfield approach to baseball.
1999 Topps Gold Label #29
I recently posted the Darin Erstad card from this set and remarked then on how much I like the design for 1999 Topps Gold Label. It just feels like a premium card, heavy card stock, a non-distracting rainbow shine, dual images of Tim that don't compete with each other, and the Angel logo in the background. Despite this being probably my least favorite Angel logo of all-time, it always looks good being slightly covered up by the player images. I need to get myself on eBay and purchase this set.
1996 Upper Deck V.J. Lovero Showcase #VJ16
Maybe one of the coolest cards made for a mid 90s Halo fan. The image of Garret Anderson, Jim Edmonds and Tim Salmon, the outfield that was supposed to bring championships and respectability to the Angels for years to become. They all did get their championships, although only the corner outfielders got theirs with the Angels. Besides bringing together the three biggest Angels stars of the mid 90s, the picture itself is cool, playing off the Angel theme, with each player bringing his hand and glove together in a prayer-like scene, looking off in deep contemplation. Just plain cool.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
As a young man, Salmon's favorite players were Ryne Sandberg, Dale Murphy and Steve Garvey.
In Cal Ripken's record setting 2,131st straight game, Salmon went 3-4, with a home run and a double.
Tim hit a walk off Grand Slam in the bottom of the 11th against the Indians in April of 1997.
Tim made the most money in a single season of his career in 2005. He earned over 10 million dollars that season and played in zero games. In 2006, he made 400,000 dollars and played in 76 games.
Won the Silver Slugger Award in 1995.
Tim's favorite sports announcer is Vin Scully.
Quote from Tim: "Be a dreamer, that's where you'll find your passion for the game."
So ends Day 6 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Jul 8, 2009
Seven Days of Salmon: Day 5
While on vacation, I've decided to treat you, the loyal readers of I Heart Halos! to seven glorious days of Tim Salmon cards. I do this to not only honor the greatest of all Halos, but to honor you.
Day 5: Cards That I Like for Some Odd Reason (As opposed to yesterday's cards which were just plain odd)
Circa '96 #22
This card is definitely a cluster f*@$ of a design, there is just way too much going on in the background, with the text, etc. The back is a definite improvement, as it's much more sedated, but we're not focusing on that. So what's the odd reason I liek it? The quote from Tim in the upper corner, "I don't want to over-analyze things. I just want to react." It says it all about Salmon and his approach to the game and it's exactly how I like my hitters. No analysis, just see pitch, hit pitch. I admire the Tony Gwynns of the world and their study habits and constant breaking down of pitchers, but to me baseball is so much more pure when played like Salmon.
1999 Fleer Ultra #168
This card is on the surface a very boring shot, but I feel like every star player needs at least one of these cards in their catalog. The card that says, "Yeah, he's a star, but he's not so big time that he doesn't have time for the fans". That's just what we get here, Tim giving back to his loyal fans, signing autographs alongside the wall at the Big A.
1994 Upper Deck #111
The decision to reproduce the main image in the bottom corner of the card, distorting it into something uncomfortable, was ill-advised at best. But that's not what I like about this card. I just like the image of Salmon the hustler who goes all out. After sliding into the base, Tim kneels on a single knee and contemplates what has just taken place. The dirt on his pants is a nice touch, but it's his knees that really interest me. Not only are the pants torn at the knee, this doesn't appear to be the first time, as they seem to have previously been stitched back together. The essence of Salmon.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
In 2000, Bill James described Tim as an "old-fashioned hard-hat kind of player, good arm, not too much speed, works hard and rarely goes into a slump."
Salmon's career bests: Average - .330, Home runs - 34 (twice), RBIs - 129, OBP - .429, Slugging - .594, OPS - 1.024, Runs - 111, Doubles - 37, Triples - 4 (twice), Hits - 177, Total Bases - 319.
Full name: Timothy James Salmon
So ends Day 5 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Day 5: Cards That I Like for Some Odd Reason (As opposed to yesterday's cards which were just plain odd)
Circa '96 #22
This card is definitely a cluster f*@$ of a design, there is just way too much going on in the background, with the text, etc. The back is a definite improvement, as it's much more sedated, but we're not focusing on that. So what's the odd reason I liek it? The quote from Tim in the upper corner, "I don't want to over-analyze things. I just want to react." It says it all about Salmon and his approach to the game and it's exactly how I like my hitters. No analysis, just see pitch, hit pitch. I admire the Tony Gwynns of the world and their study habits and constant breaking down of pitchers, but to me baseball is so much more pure when played like Salmon.
1999 Fleer Ultra #168
This card is on the surface a very boring shot, but I feel like every star player needs at least one of these cards in their catalog. The card that says, "Yeah, he's a star, but he's not so big time that he doesn't have time for the fans". That's just what we get here, Tim giving back to his loyal fans, signing autographs alongside the wall at the Big A.
1994 Upper Deck #111
The decision to reproduce the main image in the bottom corner of the card, distorting it into something uncomfortable, was ill-advised at best. But that's not what I like about this card. I just like the image of Salmon the hustler who goes all out. After sliding into the base, Tim kneels on a single knee and contemplates what has just taken place. The dirt on his pants is a nice touch, but it's his knees that really interest me. Not only are the pants torn at the knee, this doesn't appear to be the first time, as they seem to have previously been stitched back together. The essence of Salmon.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
In 2000, Bill James described Tim as an "old-fashioned hard-hat kind of player, good arm, not too much speed, works hard and rarely goes into a slump."
Salmon's career bests: Average - .330, Home runs - 34 (twice), RBIs - 129, OBP - .429, Slugging - .594, OPS - 1.024, Runs - 111, Doubles - 37, Triples - 4 (twice), Hits - 177, Total Bases - 319.
Full name: Timothy James Salmon
So ends Day 5 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Jul 7, 2009
Seven Days of Salmon: Day 4
While on vacation, I've decided to treat you, the loyal readers of I Heart Halos! to seven glorious days of Tim Salmon cards. I do this to not only honor the greatest of all Halos, but to honor you.
Day 4: Cards That Are Odd
1998 Pacific Revolution #5
I'm not sure I own another card with this much sparkle, rainbowy goodness and weird tribal background design. There's a part of me that wants to hate this card, yet I'm oddly drawn to it. I wouldn't want to open a pack of this stuff or own more than 1 card from the set, but this one as a stand alone is pretty sweet. I even like the raised lettering of Tim's name down the side, with even more sparkly fantasticalness.
1993 Upper Deck Stars of Tomorrow #7
This card is just plain ugly. The fading purple sky, a sprinkling of stars, the generic stadium with spotlights shooting at Mr. Salmon's nether regions, the constellation made by the outline of Tim and lastly, Tim coming up on a ground ball, while in mid air, wearing a spring training jersey. It's an awful card. But here's the thing, I wasn't doing a lot of collecting in 1993, but I did still open the occasional pack and for me, getting a Tim Salmon card during his rookie season was a boon. At the time, I cared little for design or asthetics, as evidenced by complete set of 1991 Fleer. It's Tim Salmon being celebrated for his future stardom. Count me in.
1995 Studio #13
Admittedly, this is a pretty stupid idea for a baseball card. Apparently the Studio design had become so stale that they decided to go with the idea of baseball card as credit card. There's one redeeming thing about these cards. They didn't half ass it, instead they went all the way with the theme. How did they go about this? Well, American Leahue logo serves them well as credit card like background logo. The stats are effective as a credit card number and I really like the "MLB Member Since" and "Birth Date" taking the place of an expiration date. The holographic Angels logo adds to the overall look and "authenticity". They didn't quit when it comes to the back. By raising the writing on the front, you get the indentations on the back. The authorized Tim Salmon signature also graces the back along with a brief bio and stat line that replaces the legalese. Well done, Studio.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
In 1992, Tim was awarded the Minor League Player of the Year Award by Baseball America.
Tim Salmon's debut consisted of two strikeouts, a pop-up and a walk. Day 2 brought Tim's first hit, a single. Day 3 brought Tim's first home run, a 3 run shot.
Tim was a unanimous Rookie of the Year winner in 1993, posting a 283/.382/.536 line, with 31 homers and 95 RBIs.
In 2002, Tim was awarded the Hutch Award, given to an active player who best exemplifies the fighting spirit and competitive desire to win.
So ends Day 4 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Day 4: Cards That Are Odd
1998 Pacific Revolution #5
I'm not sure I own another card with this much sparkle, rainbowy goodness and weird tribal background design. There's a part of me that wants to hate this card, yet I'm oddly drawn to it. I wouldn't want to open a pack of this stuff or own more than 1 card from the set, but this one as a stand alone is pretty sweet. I even like the raised lettering of Tim's name down the side, with even more sparkly fantasticalness.
1993 Upper Deck Stars of Tomorrow #7
This card is just plain ugly. The fading purple sky, a sprinkling of stars, the generic stadium with spotlights shooting at Mr. Salmon's nether regions, the constellation made by the outline of Tim and lastly, Tim coming up on a ground ball, while in mid air, wearing a spring training jersey. It's an awful card. But here's the thing, I wasn't doing a lot of collecting in 1993, but I did still open the occasional pack and for me, getting a Tim Salmon card during his rookie season was a boon. At the time, I cared little for design or asthetics, as evidenced by complete set of 1991 Fleer. It's Tim Salmon being celebrated for his future stardom. Count me in.
1995 Studio #13
Admittedly, this is a pretty stupid idea for a baseball card. Apparently the Studio design had become so stale that they decided to go with the idea of baseball card as credit card. There's one redeeming thing about these cards. They didn't half ass it, instead they went all the way with the theme. How did they go about this? Well, American Leahue logo serves them well as credit card like background logo. The stats are effective as a credit card number and I really like the "MLB Member Since" and "Birth Date" taking the place of an expiration date. The holographic Angels logo adds to the overall look and "authenticity". They didn't quit when it comes to the back. By raising the writing on the front, you get the indentations on the back. The authorized Tim Salmon signature also graces the back along with a brief bio and stat line that replaces the legalese. Well done, Studio.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
In 1992, Tim was awarded the Minor League Player of the Year Award by Baseball America.
Tim Salmon's debut consisted of two strikeouts, a pop-up and a walk. Day 2 brought Tim's first hit, a single. Day 3 brought Tim's first home run, a 3 run shot.
Tim was a unanimous Rookie of the Year winner in 1993, posting a 283/.382/.536 line, with 31 homers and 95 RBIs.
In 2002, Tim was awarded the Hutch Award, given to an active player who best exemplifies the fighting spirit and competitive desire to win.
So ends Day 4 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Jul 6, 2009
Seven Days of Salmon: Day 3
While on vacation, I've decided to treat you, the loyal readers of I Heart Halos! to seven glorious days of Tim Salmon cards. I do this to not only honor the greatest of all Halos, but to honor you.
Day 3: Cards That Are Just Plain Cool...Kinda
1993 Studio #114
Okay, I know what you may be thinking, "Studio isn't cool, sorry Halo fan". And you wouldn't be wrong in thinking that. However, I really like this card. I like the cheesy backgrounds of the past have been replaced by the team logo. But rather than just a giant logo, they used the uniform patch with all its stitching. Salmon is pictured in uniform, instead of some cheesy mock turtleneck with poorly styled hair. Finally, the addition of faux signature done in a holographic, color changing way is pleasing to the eye.
1994 Topps Stadium Club Dugout Dirt #8 of 12 (card back)
Illustrator Daniel Guidera is responsible for this card back. For the life of me, I can't really figure out how he came up with this design, but I love it. The obvious play on "Salmon", but notice the look of fright on each of the defensive fisheys. True terror, while Tim looks extremely pleased with himself as he floats in the water...or is he up in heaven? Don't know, don't care, just like.
1994 Topps Stadium Club #36
This one is all about the photo. Salmon, an instant after making contact and most likely driving the pitch of some stinkin' Yankee into the middle of a bunch of monuments. Catcher is still poised in hopes of the ball getting past the bat of Salmon, with the umpire also making a guest appearance. Beautiful.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
Tim made approximately $70,677,500 in his career as a Halo.
While playing for the Angels his entire career, Tim was a California Angel, an Anaheim Angel and a Los Angeles Angel of Anaheim.
Despite many people thinking Tim's career was over after he missed the entire 2005 season, Tim made the team as a non-roster invitee to spring training in 2006. In 2006 he would go on to hit .265, had on OBP of .361, and slugged .450.
Tim had the most home runs of any player to never make an All-Star game, while playing his entire career after the All-Star game came about.
So ends Day 3 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Day 3: Cards That Are Just Plain Cool...Kinda
1993 Studio #114
Okay, I know what you may be thinking, "Studio isn't cool, sorry Halo fan". And you wouldn't be wrong in thinking that. However, I really like this card. I like the cheesy backgrounds of the past have been replaced by the team logo. But rather than just a giant logo, they used the uniform patch with all its stitching. Salmon is pictured in uniform, instead of some cheesy mock turtleneck with poorly styled hair. Finally, the addition of faux signature done in a holographic, color changing way is pleasing to the eye.
1994 Topps Stadium Club Dugout Dirt #8 of 12 (card back)
Illustrator Daniel Guidera is responsible for this card back. For the life of me, I can't really figure out how he came up with this design, but I love it. The obvious play on "Salmon", but notice the look of fright on each of the defensive fisheys. True terror, while Tim looks extremely pleased with himself as he floats in the water...or is he up in heaven? Don't know, don't care, just like.
1994 Topps Stadium Club #36
This one is all about the photo. Salmon, an instant after making contact and most likely driving the pitch of some stinkin' Yankee into the middle of a bunch of monuments. Catcher is still poised in hopes of the ball getting past the bat of Salmon, with the umpire also making a guest appearance. Beautiful.
Today's Tim Salmon Factoids:
Tim made approximately $70,677,500 in his career as a Halo.
While playing for the Angels his entire career, Tim was a California Angel, an Anaheim Angel and a Los Angeles Angel of Anaheim.
Despite many people thinking Tim's career was over after he missed the entire 2005 season, Tim made the team as a non-roster invitee to spring training in 2006. In 2006 he would go on to hit .265, had on OBP of .361, and slugged .450.
Tim had the most home runs of any player to never make an All-Star game, while playing his entire career after the All-Star game came about.
So ends Day 3 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Jul 5, 2009
Seven Days of Salmon: Day 2
While on vacation, I've decided to treat you, the loyal readers of I Heart Halos! to seven glorious days of Tim Salmon cards. I do this to not only honor the greatest of all Halos, but to honor you.
Day 2: Cards of the 3D Variety
1996 Sportflix #106
Staring at this card in an attempt to appreciate the eye-popping 3D effects, left me with a headache after 8.5 seconds. While Salmon does pop out to some extent, the out of focus crowd is just a mish mash of mind-bending ridiculousness. I find it odd that they would choose to have Tim's image so far to the left, leaving a giant void of anything in focus.
1995 Sportflix #14
While this card does less damage to my frontal lobe, it's also quite boring. The only part of the card that is 3D, is the vortex of grass and baseballs flying from the horizon. Salmon appears to be standing in front of a red hot baseball of flame, which would explain the need for sunglasses. Complete design fail here.
1995 Sportflix Cyclone Squad #CS 18
Here's a bright idea for a 3D themed set, let's put an image of the player in front of two gold, hypnotic spheres. Simply moving this card a fraction of an inch causes the "cyclones" to spin and for my eyes to be annoyed. I'm shocked these cards were being produced in the mid-90s after their failure in the 80s. Even as a kid I realized how ridiculous these cards were, but that didn't stop me from buying a few packs in the middle of Nebraska while on a family road trip. Perhaps Upper Deck can revive the Sportflix legacy in the same way that they've brought back O-Pee-Chee. Or not.
Today's Tim Salmon factoids:
Considered by many, including myself to be the greatest player to never play in an All-Star game. This still amazes me.
In his lone post-season, Salmon had an OPS of .908. His OPS in the World Series was 1.067.
Tim was drafted in the 18th round of the 1986 draft by the Atlanta Braves, but chose not to sign and instead attended Grand Canyon University. Chad Curtis was also drafted by the Angels out of Grand Canyon University in the same year as Salmon.
So ends Day 2 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
Day 2: Cards of the 3D Variety
1996 Sportflix #106
Staring at this card in an attempt to appreciate the eye-popping 3D effects, left me with a headache after 8.5 seconds. While Salmon does pop out to some extent, the out of focus crowd is just a mish mash of mind-bending ridiculousness. I find it odd that they would choose to have Tim's image so far to the left, leaving a giant void of anything in focus.
1995 Sportflix #14
While this card does less damage to my frontal lobe, it's also quite boring. The only part of the card that is 3D, is the vortex of grass and baseballs flying from the horizon. Salmon appears to be standing in front of a red hot baseball of flame, which would explain the need for sunglasses. Complete design fail here.
1995 Sportflix Cyclone Squad #CS 18
Here's a bright idea for a 3D themed set, let's put an image of the player in front of two gold, hypnotic spheres. Simply moving this card a fraction of an inch causes the "cyclones" to spin and for my eyes to be annoyed. I'm shocked these cards were being produced in the mid-90s after their failure in the 80s. Even as a kid I realized how ridiculous these cards were, but that didn't stop me from buying a few packs in the middle of Nebraska while on a family road trip. Perhaps Upper Deck can revive the Sportflix legacy in the same way that they've brought back O-Pee-Chee. Or not.
Today's Tim Salmon factoids:
Considered by many, including myself to be the greatest player to never play in an All-Star game. This still amazes me.
In his lone post-season, Salmon had an OPS of .908. His OPS in the World Series was 1.067.
Tim was drafted in the 18th round of the 1986 draft by the Atlanta Braves, but chose not to sign and instead attended Grand Canyon University. Chad Curtis was also drafted by the Angels out of Grand Canyon University in the same year as Salmon.
So ends Day 2 of the Seven Days of Salmon.
Go Halos!
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