Picked up this 1957 Topps Larry Doby at a show today. I always associated him with the Cleveland Indians since that is who he played for when he became the first Black player in the American League. But I found out recently that he also coached and managed the Chicago White Sox. He was the second Black manager in the AL/NL (Frank Robinson was the first). A true baseball pioneer!!

Here’s some fun little wiki facts about Mr. Thompson. In Baseball references stats they have him as Tim Thompson. I guess 56 was his best season.

“In 1956, Thompson was the Athletics' most-used starting catcher, starting in 63 games; he set personal bests that year in games played (92), hits(73), runs batted in (27) and batting average (.272). The following year, playing behind regular backstop Hal Smith, Thompson hit seven home runs in 81 games, but his average declined to .204. He then was included in a 12-player trade with the Tigers that November. Thompson appeared in four games with the Tigers, with one hit in six at bats, before he was acquired by the independently-operated Toronto Maple Leafs of the Triple-A International League.”

One of the pinnacles of my basketball card collection. A beautiful Bill Russell rookie. And I WILL TRADE IT! Towards/for a lower grade Russell rookie auto or other high end rare on/card auto. So hit me up if you are interested in a high/end monster card!

A closer look at the 1957 Topps I got at the card show over the weekend. These were a buck each. I hadn't been much of a fan of this set, but the last decade or so I've come around. They are great!

It's a hot one, but made myself go outside. Glad I did!