In 1972 Topps released 6 "Awards" cards. These cards had pictures of the trophies on them. I always thought that was kind of strange. Over the next few posts I will be putting pictures of the award winners on the cards. I added facsimile autographs to identify the players while trying to keep the original look of the cards.
In 1971 the name of the trophy given to the All Star Game MVP was the "Commissioner's Trophy". Originally it was named after the Chicago Tribune sports writer who originated the All Star game, Arch Ward. The first All Star Game was played in old Comiskey Park in conjunction with the 1933 Century of Progress World's Fair in Chicago. Currently the award is named after Ted Williams.
There were 6 home runs hit in the 1971 mid-summer classic and every one of them was hit by a future Hall of Famer. In the N.L. Johnny Bench, Hank Aaron and Roberto Clemente cleared the fence. In the A.L. it was Reggie Jackson, Harmon Killebrew and Frank Robinson. But it was Robinson's blast that put the American League in the lead for good. That was enough for him to earn the All Star MVP. 1971 was also the last season Robinson played in Baltimore. He would return to the Orioles as a manager in 1988.
Love it!! Topps needs to hire you.
ReplyDeleteYup, Brent is right. That's a sweet looking Frank Robby card. Nicely done. And the Vida Blue is pretty cool as well.
ReplyDeleteUnsure if I'm correct or not, but I believe the Commissioner's Award is what is now called the "Roberto Clemente Award" and is given to the player who best exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship, etc. In 1972 Brooks Robinson won this award; don't think Frank ever did.
ReplyDeleteLet me know if I'm mistaken.
Regards,
Mark