For throwback Thursday going with one Sox’s greats Carlton Fisk. As mentioned in prior posts live the ‘76 Topps set and this has a great photo of Pudge.

Carlton Fisk was an intimidating fellow. I think I would have thought twice about trying to score from second on a single if I had to barrel into him at home plate. I picked up the O-Pee-Chee up for $10 at The National from a box filled with graded Fisk cards at the same price. The guy saw that I had a PSA 9, thinking I was a Fisk collector, said “there are some 10’s in there if you want to get one.” I replied “oh no, I specifically was looking for 89 Topps.”

@1988toppspodcast did an excellent episode on him about a month ago. I think one of the words used to describe him was surly. Worth a listen for sure!

Mike Garman, Cecil Cooper, and Carlton Fisk each carved out memorable Major League careers in very different ways. Garman was a dependable relief pitcher in the 1970s, best remembered for his role in the pennant winning 1973 Mets bullpen, where his control and poise made him a trusted late inning arm. Cooper became one of the American League’s most consistent hitters, starring for the Brewers in the late 1970s and early 1980s with smooth defense at first base and multiple 100 RBI seasons that helped power Milwaukee to contention. Fisk, a Hall of Fame catcher, combined toughness, leadership, and dramatic flair highlighted by his iconic 1975 World Series home run, and he went on to enjoy a rare long career behind the plate, finishing with over 2,300 hits and a reputation as one of baseball’s fiercest competitors.

https://youtu.be/w55U89QPlnA

1973 Topps #193, Carlton Fisk ⭐ Autograph
On November 21, 1972, Carlton Fisk became the first unanimous AL Rookie of the Year.
I like his 1973 Topps Rookie Cup card better than his 1972 Topps RC, which he shares with two other players.
Have a great Friday!🤝