Topps All-Star Misses: 1970 NL Battery

 In a strange turn of events, Topps had the 1959 American League All Star infield and the 1958 National League outfield correct (by my narrow definition). The 1959 AL infield cards reflected the 1958 ASG starting lineup; Moose Skowron at first, Nellie Fox at second, Luis Aparicio at short and Frank Malzone at third.  The Sporting News All Stars in 1959 were combine AL and NL with only Nellie Fox of the White Sox representing the AL.

Similarly, the Topps 1958 NL Outfield All Stars were a reflection of the 1957 MLB All Star Game starters. Frank Robinson, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron were the 1957 ASG starters and Mays and Aaron were named to The Sporting News All Star team in 1958.  So we skip ahead to the 1970 NL Battery.

In 1970, Topps had Jerry Koosman (LHP), Juan Marichal (RHP) and Johnny Bench (C) on their "Sporting News" All Star Cards. Only Bench was actually named to the 1970 Sporting News All Star team.  He was also the only of the 3 to start in the 1969 ASG.  

The actual 1969 All Star Game starter was Steve Carlton of the St. Louis Cardinals. Carlton followed up his 1969 All Star season, with a league leading 19 losses in 1970.

The first right hand pitcher to make an appearance for the NL in the 1969 ASG was Bob Gibson.  Gibson was also The Sporting News All Star selection for 1970.

Jim Merritt (LHP) was The Sporting News All Star selection in 1970.  He was also the first lefty to pitch in the 1970 ASG following starter Tom Seaver.  He was 4th in Cy Young voting in 1970 and 21st in MVP voting.

Who probably didn't merit inclusion in the 1970 Topps All-Star set, but was in it anyway?

Koosman and Marichal:

Both were reserves in the 1969 MLB All Star Game but only Koosman left the bullpen. Neither were named to The Sporting News All Star team in 1970 and neither were selected for the 1970 MLB All Star team.