1950 Bowman #174, Hank Thompson ⭐ RC
Hank Thompson is generally recognized as the third Black player in the modern Major League Baseball (MLB) era to break the color barrier, debuting for the St. Louis Browns on July 17, 1947. He followed Jackie Robinson (April 15, 1947) and Larry Doby (July 5, 1947) in integrating the league.

Key facts regarding Hank Thompson and his contributions during this period of integration include:

• Thompson is notable for integrating two different franchises; he played for the St. Louis Browns in 1947 and later for the NY Giants (along with Monte Irvin) in 1949.

• He is also recognized as the first Black batter to face a Black pitcher in a MLB game when he batted against Don Newcombe on July 8, 1949.

• Hank was also part of the first all-Black outfield in MLB history when he played right field along with teammates Willie Mays (centerfield) and Monte Irvin (left field) in Game 1 of the 1951 World Series on October 4, 1951.

1952 Topps #392 Hoyt Wilhem RC ⭐ U.S. Army, Purple Heart Medal, Battle of The Bulge
When you truly love a card or set, as I do with 1952 Topps, you notice small things that often go unnoticed by casual observers.
For example, if you look closer at the top of Hoyt Wilhelm's hat in his 1952 Topps RC, you will see the shape of a heart in gray.
Collect What You Love.❤

1952 Bowman #34, Al Dark 🏆
In 1955, the inaugural Lou Gehrig Award was presented to Al Dark.
The Lou Gehrig Award is given annually to the Major League Baseball (MLB) player who best exemplifies the character, integrity, and dedication to community, both on and off the field, honoring the legacy of the Hall of Famer.

2025 Leaf Spectacular When It Was a Game Used ⭐ Orlando Cepeda, #4/8
Orlando Cepeda was born in Puerto Rico.
In 1961 he led the N.L. in HR (46) and RBI (142).

1960 Topps #564, Willie Mays ⭐ MLB Pioneer
Say Hey! Say Good Moring friends and card folk!⭐
This is one of my favorite card images of Willie Mays.
Often All-Star cards are overshadowed, but not this one.
I love the 1960 Art-Deco design and shadowing behind the image of Willie.
As you may know, Willie began playing professional baseball in the Negro League with the Birmingham Black Barons.