#366 Rob Dressler

Who is this player?
Rob Dressler, pitcher, Seattle Mariners

For the first time in his career, Rob Dressler began the 1980 season on a major league roster. Slated for the Mariners bullpen, Rob was a right-handed control pitcher who most often depended on the ground ball outs. Early in the season, many of his appearances were typically in a mop up role, but for a team that lost 103 games that happened quite often. Add to the fact that the Mariners were second in the AL in errors, many of the ground balls that he was counting on did not become outs. Despite a bloated ERA, he replaced Mike Parrott in the Seattle rotation in late July, and actually did quite well. While he won only four games and lost six in 13 starts down the stretch, he crafted a 3.38 with a 1.189 WHIP and seven quality starts (even if those stats didn't exist in 1980). By the end of the season, he reached career highs in innings pitched, appearances, strikeouts and victories.

A Portland, Oregon native, Bressler was a graduate of Madison High School which also boasts All Star hurlers Rick Wise and Kent Bottenfield as alumni.  He was a first round selection of the San Francisco Giants in June 1972 and reported Great Falls of the Rookie League shortly after his graduation. It was then that Rob began the long odyssey throughout the minor leagues in pursuit if his major league dreams.

Decatur. Amarillo. Lafayette. Phoenix. Phoenix. Phoenix again. Phoenix for four seasons.  Yes, Rob did have a cup of coffee with the Giants in late 1975, and he spent a good chunk of the 1976 season in San Francisco, starting a career-high 19 games, with a 3-10 record and a 4.43 ERA. Somewhere along the line, however, the Giants lost confidence in him as he was relegated to the minor leagues for all of the 1977 and 1978 seasons and was traded to the St. Louis Cardinal organization in July, 1978. Rob was a starting pitcher for much of his minor league career and could be a streaky performer. He was also plagued by inconsistency.

In an interesting transaction, the Cardinals loaned him to the Seattle Mariners in 1979 and the pitching-starved expansion team found a spot for him at the major league level. Starting and relieving, Dressler finished the 1979 season with some good outings and a chance to make the 1980 staff. After his high-water marks in 1980, he pitched poorly in Spring Training 1981 and was released. He did not catch on with another organization and it was the end of his four year major league career.

Today, Rob Dressler still lives in the Oregon area although not much has been reported about his post-baseball career. Any information that can be shared as to his activities over the last 36 years would be most appreciated.

Why I love this card
The All Star uniform on the cartoon pitcher. It has that Bingo Long vibe going even if the pitcher looks more like he is auditioning for Dance Fever than deliver a pitch.

Something else....
In researching Dressler's 1980 season, I was really surprised that he was cut loose by the Mariners. Then as now, pitching was at a premium and at 26 years old, it appeared the Dressler found a groove in the latter part of the 1980 season. It didn't appear that he was injured or something drastic occurred. It is just puzzling that he was given up on so quickly.

#349 Jack Brohamer

Who is this player?
Jack Brohamer, reserve infielder, Boston Red Sox
Beginning the 1980 season with the Red Sox, Jack Brohamer came off the bench frequently to spell second baseman Jerry Remy and third baseman Butch Hobson. He performed very well in this role, beginning with three multi-hit games in mid-April. His batting average was well over .300 when the Red Sox decided to sell him to the Cleveland Indians. With Duane Kuiper out for the season with an injury, Brohamer was given a everyday opportunity. He struggled at the plate with the Tribe as his batting average hovered around the Mendoza-line for most of the summer. A late flurry in September, along with his only home run that year, resulted in a final mark of .251.

The words "scrappy" and "hustle" are often used to described Jack Brohamer's style of play. A native of Maywood, California, he began his professional career as a 34th round draft pick of the Cleveland Indians in 1967. The left-handed Brohamer doubled in a run in his first at-bat in the minors and showed promise that first season by batting .291. Two years later he would lead his minor league in fielding percentage and assists. However, when he was benched at Wichita in 1971, he considered retiring and taking a job doing mechanical work. Jack changed his mind when he began playing regularly and eventually led him to the major leagues.

An impressive Spring Training won him a starting position with the Indians. Playing every day, Brohamer appeared in a career-high 136 games and earned a position on the Topps/Baseball Digest All-Rookie team. Brohamer would be the Tribe's regular second baseman for three seasons, until an injury forced him from the lineup. When Duane Kuiper played well in his absences, the Indians relegated Jack to the bench, eventually leading to his trade from the team. Understandably, this turn of events didn't sit very well with Brohamer, who wanted to play every day.

Traded to the Chicago White Sox for the 1976 season, Brohamer again played everyday for the Pale Hose, batting .251 and reaching career highs in home runs (7) and RBI (40). Bill Veeck's gamble the following season sent Brohamer to the bench again. With the White Sox trading for eventual free agents Richie Zisk and Oscar Gamble, outfielder Jorge Orta was moved to second base, displacing Brohamer. Nonetheless, Jack made the most of his appearances as he hit for the cycle against the Seattle Mariners. It was a memorable summer in Chicago as the White Sox were in contention most of the summer before falling from the race. A memorable image of Brohamer came on Opening Day, as the White Sox played the inaugural game in Toronto. Using bats and catcher's shin guards, the image Brohamer "skiing" made newspapers across the country.

Like several of his fellow "South Side Hit Men" Brohamer left Chicago as a free agent and signed with the Boston Red Sox. Under the premise that he would be Boston's starting second baseman, Brohamer was again sent to the bench when the Red Sox traded for Jerry Remy. Undeterred, Brohamer proved to be a valuable utility man, filling in at second and third base.

Following his return to Cleveland in 1980, Brohamer was looking for more playing time in 1981. When it didn't appear it would come his way, he requested a trade, preferably to a team near his California home. When that didn't happen either, Brohamer retired outright and took a job in his family's sheet-metal business. An update on his present whereabouts would be most appreciated.

Why I love this card
There has been a pretty nice run of cartoons on the last few cards and Brohamer's is no exception, mentioning him hitting for the cycle. However, what struck me most about this card is the barber pole/candy cane look of Brohamer's bat. I cannot recall when or where I have seen something similar, although I remember taping the heck out of my Cesar Cedeno model when I cracked the handle (ah, the days before aluminum bats!)

Something else....
An Indian fan was able to connect Jack Brohamer to Omar Vizquel and how the two were "traded" for each other. A bit of a reach, but entertaining nonetheless.

#347 Harry Chappas

Who is this player?
Harry Chappas, reserve infielder, Chicago White Sox
Although he did not enter the season with as much fanfare as the previous season, Harry Chappas broke north with the Chicago White Sox at the end of Spring Training as an infield reserve. Despite all of the fuss made of his diminutive stature, Chappas was switch-hitting contact hitter whose batting eye and swift feet earned him a spot on the roster. The highlight of his season was a 4-hit performance against the defending AL Champion Baltimore Orioles. However, he managed only three hits in nineteen games after that and was shuttled back and forth to Triple-A. The last time came in June, and it was suggested that Chappas may return since he had an option left that would have prevented him from being placed on waivers. Unfortunately, Chappas did not return to the major leagues and his brief three-year career would come to an end.

Born in Maryland but raised in Florida, Harry Chappas was a prep baseball star as the back of this card indicates. He enrolled in Miami Dade North Junior College, where is performance attracted attention from the White Sox and was drafted in 1976. His early days as a player were described as "aggressive" and "combative"; indeed when a White Sox scout doubted Chappas' ability, he crushed a 425-foot drive.

Chappas had a solid season Single-A Appleton, batting .302 and being named an All-Star. He helped lead the team to 97 wins and in the process earned a ticket to the major leagues. Owner Bill Veeck used the opportunity to play-up Chappas' height. A stunt was created to have broadcaster Harry Caray "measure" Chappas and come in at 5' 3", making hims the shortest player in the majors (Chappas was actually closer to 5' 7'). In his September call-up, he batted .267 for Chicago and handled 92 chances without an error. Appropriately, his first big league hit was a perfect bunt which traveled 30 feet before rolling dead.

The following spring, Chappas made the cover of Sports Illustrated and won the starting shortstop position from Don Kessinger, who was the White Sox' player manager at the time. He struggled mightily the first month and was returned to the minors. When Kessinger was fired and Tony LaRussa took over as manager, Chappas was called back up. He batted .363 upon his return and hitting his only career home run.

Chappas played three more years in the minor league systems of the White Sox and Atlanta Braves before joining an Italian baseball league in 1984. While there, he was involved in a motorcycle accident and crushed his leg. Shortly thereafter, his professional baseball career came to an end.

In the subsequent years, Chappas returned to Florida and entered a vocational program. It was also reported that he had passed courses in precision-parts making and reading blueprints.


Why I love this card
I was oblivious to Chappas' appearance on the cover of Sports Illustrated. I was more transfixed by the cartoon of the base thief on the back of the card, who for some reason, looked suspiciously like the Hamburgler:

.








Something else....
Chappas also had some off-the-field idiosyncrasies. For instance, he raised and bred Australian and African finches, leaving most of them at his Florida home during the season, but keeping some with him. On the road, he also drove roommates to distraction by building model airplanes in his motel room half the night.

#333 Jim Norris

Who is this player?
Jim Norris, reserve outfielder, Cleveland Indians
Even before the 1980 season would get underway, Jim Norris had already switched uniforms, traded from the Cleveland Indians in January to the Texas Rangers. A useful utility man, Norris could play all outfield positions and occasionally first base. While he did not start regularly, he contributed a game-winning hit against the Yankees in May and drove in the winning run of a 13-inning marathon against the White Sox in July. Jim would appear in 119 games in 1980 and bat .247.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Jim Norris was a star at the University of Maryland before his career was slowed by injuries. He was drafted by the Indians in the fifth round of the 1971 player draft and was given a mere $2500 bonus. It took Norris quite some time to make it to the major leagues. A six year odyssey in the minors saw Norris suffer numerous injuries including a broken collarbone, shoulder, left arm, right arm, right hand, and right thumb, not to mention torn cartilage and ligaments in his right knee. Nonetheless, he demonstrated patience and perseverance, even being named a player-coach during his time at Triple-A Toledo.

Norris became the "feel-good" story of Spring Training 1977 when he survived the final cut and made the Indians roster. The fairy tale continued into Opening Day, where his two singles and dazzling outfield catch help lead the Indians to a 5-4 win over the Boston Red Sox.

As the Indians' starting centerfielder that season, he batted .270 and led the team with 26 stolen bases. Because of his Opening Day heroics, he quickly became a fan favorite and was even voted the Indians "Unsung Hero" by the Cleveland press. The following season, he saw action mainly a fourth outfielder, a role he would have for the remainder of his stay in Cleveland. He gathered a reputation as a fine fielder with excellent speed despite his many injuries.

His 1980 season in Texas would be the final one of his brief four year major league career. He was unable to make the club in 1981 and spent the season with the Wichita Aeros. At age 32, he called it a career. In 1989, Norris and his wife established Norris Sales & Marketing Inc in Burleson, Texas. According to records, it is a private company categorized under Building Stone Products. Current estimates show this company has an annual revenue of $2.5 to 5 million.

Why I love this card
Actually, I think my Mom would have loved this card more than I did. The jacket that Norris is wearing under his uniform reminds me of all the Little League games I played in April in Michigan when the weather was terrible. My mother insisted that I wear the jacket under my uniform, which made me feel soooo awkward. When I saw this card, I couldn't help but wonder if Norris' mom made him wear a jacket as I had to. Again, a small innocuous connection that drew baseball a little closer to the nine year old. And I got the last laugh as I didn't have to wear a jacket over my Stormtrooper costume that Halloween.

Something else....
Norris' card stood out for me because it was one of those Double Printed cards. If you need a small refresher, there were a couple old posts here and here.

#311 Roger Metzger

Who is this player?
Roger Metzger, utility infielder, San Francisco Giants
In November 1979, Roger Metzger of the San Francisco Giants was badly hurt when he severed parts of four fingers on his right hand in a sawing accident at his home in Texas. Determined, Metzger reported for Spring Training to reclaim his position on the Giants. He not only won a roster spot by batting .300 during the exhibition season, but the respect and admiration of peers and teammates. Used primarily as a defensive substitute and pinch-runner, Metzger struggled at the plate, batting only .074 (2 for 27). He retired in August, ending his 11-year career, and spent the remainder of the season as a coach on the Giants' staff.

Texas-born Roger Metzger was a collegiate star at St. Edward's University in Austin. The switch-hitting shortstop was an All-Conference player and was selected as an alternate to the 1968 Olympic baseball team. In 1969, he batted .414 was was named to the All-American baseball team. This made him the #1 selection of the Chicago Cubs in June, 1969. He was in the major leagues the following season, but only appeared in one game. That winter, he was traded to his hometown Houston Astros, for whom he would play the majority of his career.

As a shortstop, his reputation with the Astros quickly rose; he led the National League in triples in 1971 & 1973, setting a team record in the process. He also developed a reputation as one of the premier defensive shortstops in the league, leading NL shortstops in putouts in 1971 and double plays in 1972. He was rewarded for his fielding excellence in 1973, when he earned the National League Gold Glove Award. He was also named Astros team MVP that season, when he batted .250 and achieve career highs in most offensive categories.

In eight seasons in Houston, Metzger was a popular player, setting a NL record with 59 consecutive errorless games in 1976 (since broken). However, Roger batted a collective .229 during this period. As the Astros built towards contention in the late-1970s, Metzger's playing time diminished and he was traded to the San Francisco Giants midway during the 1978 season. Metzger was a valuable man off the bench for the Giants, often splitting time with Johnnie LeMaster in the starting shortstop role.

After leaving baseball following the 1980 season, he and his wife ran a local restaurant for more than 10 years. He graduated with a degree in mathematics in 1972 and taught math for several years at Brenham High School (TX). Today, Roger works as the job procurement officer at the Brenham State School. The school is home to 400 people with mental disabilities from ages 12–82. His wife also works there as a fundraising coordinator.

Why I love this card
I knew nothing about Roger Metzger's accident when I got this card during the summer of 1980. I don't know why I didn't, but I didn't learn about it until much later. Today though, I am much more in awe of what he has done with his life since 1980 than what he did before. There aren't many guys in this set that I can honestly say that about, but Roger Metzger is one.

Something else....
In 2005, Metzger's jersey #14 at St. Edward's was retired, this first in the history of its athletics program. He had already been inducted into the St. Edward's Hall of Fame in 1987, the first year the hall accepted inductees.

On this date in 1980:
Two future professional athletes are born on this day - Michael Vick (insert your own remark here) and Chris Shelton. Shelton will be best remembered for his prodigious home run output early in the 2006 season. Playing with the Detroit Tigers, "Red Pop" hit nine home runs in the first 13 games of the season; this made him the fastest player in American League history to reach that mark at that point in a season. He dropped off quickly though and was not a factor in the Tigers' World Series run that fall. He currently is in the Houston Astros organization trying to return to the majors.

#301 Mike Edwards

Who is this player?
Mike Edwards, second baseman, Oakland A's
The year began curiously for the A's Mike Edwards; he went to salary arbitration with the notorious owner Charlie Finley. Edwards likely became the only player in history to ask for less than what any owner offered, $50,000 to Finley's offer of $58,000. Of course, Edwards was not aware of the offer, and signed on to what would be his fourth and final major league season. New skipper Billy Martin used Edwards sparingly and he batted .237. He was not offered a contract at the end of the season and he did not catch on with another major league club.

Mike Edwards was from a baseball family. Two of his brothers made the major leagues as well. Younger brother Dave has a card featured in this set and played the most seasons in the majors (1978-1982). Mike's twin, Marshall, saw postseason action with the 1982 AL Champion Milwaukee Brewers. Mike and Marshall are part of baseball history; only nine sets of twins have both advanced to the major leagues.

The Los Angeles, California native was the first in his family to reach the bigs after a successful minor league career. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1974, he led the New York-Penn League in games played, at-bats and triples while playing for Niagara Falls and later led the International League (AAA) in hits and stolen bases. Edwards also showed his talents in the field, leading the IL in double plays and total chances. He appeared in a handful of games for the Pirates in 1977, but his big break came when he was traded to the Oakland A's in April, 1978.

He made an immediate impact, setting a club record with a 17-game hitting streak and scoring five runs in a game. The defining moment of his career came on August 10, 1978 when he tied the major league record for unassisted double plays by a second baseman. Mike pulled the trick twice against the California Angels. On the other side, he also established a major league record for most time caught stealing by a rookie (21).

His production fell off precipitously in 1979 as his average fell by 40 points and he stole 17 fewer bases. However, that is tempered by the fact that the A's of 1979 were one of the worst teams of the modern era and in a constant state of flux. When he lost his job in 1980, he rebounded and played in Japan in the early 1980s. Any information on his current whereabouts would be most appreciated.

Why I love this card
What a great action shot! I can hear my Little League coach now, "Two hands! Two hands!" By far, the A's lead this set with the best live game photography. Interestingly, the standouts have been of their middle infielders, first Mario Guerrero, then Rob Picciolo, now Edwards. Even if you didn't know who Edwards was or even care about the A's, if this card showed up in your pack, you were guaranteed to spend some of your summer afternoon gazing it over.

Something else....
Here is Edwards' 1979 Record Breaker card:




I ended up getting this card probably in the mid-1980s sometime and wondered what happened to Mike. After all, he set a record, didn't he? My mind couldn't comprehend the 'here today, gone tomorrow' turnover in major league baseball. I'm still wondering what happened to Mike Edwards.

On this date in 1980:
The Blues Brothers debuts on this date in Chicago. I was not fortunate to see this in theatres the first time through, but have seen it a hundred times since. I don't get tired of it (I know, I'm sick) and am glad that this movie introduced me to artists like Ray Charles, John Lee Hooker and Cab Calloway. Shame, a boy that young goin' bad.....

#296 Dave Rader

Who is this player?
Dave Rader, reserve catcher, Philadelphia Phillies
Shortly before the 1980 season got underway, the Phillies traded Dave Rader to the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox were in a pinch due to an elbow injury to incumbent Carlton Fisk and were looking to add depth. The veteran Rader earned the starting nod on Opening Day. He had a 4-hit performance against Kansas City in early May and his batting average didn't dip below .300 for the remainder of the season. In spot-starting duty, Rader finished 1980 batting .328 with 3 HR and 17 RBI.

An excellent high school athlete, Rader starred on the gridiron as an linebacker and fullback, but it was on the diamond where he truly shined. Switched to catcher in his junior year after receiving accolades at third base, Rader was twice an All-League performer. This earned him attention from major league scouts and the San Francisco Giants made him their first selection in the 1967 draft. Rader was an excellent defensive receiver and when he batted .314 at Triple-A Phoenix in 1971, he earned a chance with the major league club.

Manager Charlie Fox and the Giants were in the midst of a youth movement in San Francisco and the 23-year old Rader won the job from longtime veteran Dick Dietz. His performance in 1972 earned him The Sporting News' Rookie of the Year Award for 1972. Playing in 133 games, Rader batted .259 and also achieved career highs in hits and RBI. He followed that with another solid season in 1973, while cementing his reputation as a fine fielder when he recorded an unassisted double play, rare for a catcher. Not that it means anything, but the game was also played on Friday the 13th.

Even though he batted a career high .291 in 1974 and again in 1975, new manager Wes Westrum platooned the lefthanded hitting Rader with Marc Hill. Even though Rader saw the majority of the action, he would never appear in more than 100 games in a season again. After six years in San Francisco, he was traded; as part of a multi-player deal to the St. Louis Cardinals.

From there, Rader would spend the final four seasons of his ten-year career with four different teams. At each stop, Rader served as the backup catcher, with St. Louis, the Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Philles and finally Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox did not offer him a contract for 1981 and he signed on with the California Angels. He made the Angels roster out of Spring Training that year, but never appeared in a game for California and was released in late-April. He never again played in a major league game.

Why I love this card
One of the things I used to do was line up my cards while I watched a particular game on TV. I was doing this during the World Series that fall and had out all my Phillies and Royals. By October, I had a majority of the cards and certainly all the key players. I distinctly recall the pregame introductions with everybody being introduced from both teams. I was disappointed that there was no Rader. My Dad didn't know what happened to him either. Somehow, his entire 1980 season in Boston managed to escape both of our attention.

Something else....
Rader has one of the more interesting rookie cards in history. Here it is:

I didn't get this card until several years later as 1973s were as far away as the moon to a nine-year old in 1980. If Rader's name didn't appear on this card, I would swear that it was a Dave Concepcion card.

On this date in 1980:
George Bush throws in the towel and ends his two-year run for the presidency and instead, throws his support to Ronald Reagan, the man who defeated him. Said Bush:

My overwhelming instinct was to stay and fight, but you’ve got to be realistic. There is a widespread perception that the campaign is over. As a result, it has become increasingly difficult to raise the funds needed.

#294 Charlie Spikes

Who is this player?
Charlie Spikes, utility, Atlanta Braves
In what would be the final season of his nine-year major league career, Charlie Spikes was the Atlanta Braves pinch-hitting specialist during the 1980 season. 34 of the 41 games Charlie appeared in that season came as a pinch-batter and he excelled in the role, batting .323. He thrived in late-inning and pressure situations and often keyed several Brave rallies. He became a free agent at the end of the season and when no major league team made an offer, Charlie signed a million dollar contract to play with the Chunichi Dragons in Japan.

Charlie Spikes was a high school baseball star out of Bogalusa, Louisiana and led his team to a state championship in 1969. Charlie homered for the only run of the game, capping a prep career that would lead to his selection by the New York Yankees on the first round of the amateur draft. He would lead the Carolina League in homers in 1971 and was an minor league All-Star the following season. He quickly established a reputation as one of the finest prospects in the Yankee organization. Charlie played in a handful of games near the end of the 1972 season, but was involved in a multi-player trade that sent him to the Indians for Graig Nettles.

Spikes would lead Cleveland with 23 home runs as a rookie in 1973, the most by an Indian freshman in 23 years. He was an instant fan favorite and the club's PR department dubbed him "The Bogalusa Bomber." Stardom seemed certain for Spikes. His manager, Ken Aspromonte compared him to Hall of Famer Larry Doby and initially New York fans were critical of the trade as Spikes outperformed Nettles in 1973 and 1974.

Things began to change for Spikes when Frank Robinson was hired as Cleveland manager in 1975. The easy-going Spikes did not blossom under the harsh and critical eye of Robinson, whose "tough-love" approach did not help Spikes' career. Charlie was criticized in the press, slumped, lost playing time and eventually found himself demoted to the minor leagues. When he clashed with his manager at Triple-A Toledo, he found himself traded to the Detroit Tigers. To his credit, Spikes never blamed Robinson's for his career turn, instead praising Robby's efforts as the first black manager in major league history.

Despite high hopes, he played very little for Detroit in 1978 and was almost out of baseball before his old minor league manager Bobby Cox (now in Atlanta) recommended the Braves sign him before the 1979 season. He played two seasons in Atlanta, mostly as a reserve player. After his playing days, Spikes returned to his native Louisiana where he worked for several innings in a textile factory. He suffered a back injury a few years ago and is now collecting his disability and retired.

Why I love this card
Leslie Charles Spikes. I always loved the full signature. And we giggled because we were dumb kids and thought Leslie was a girl's name.

Something else....
Charlie receives not one, but two mentions on the fifth-ever episode of "Cheers." Here is the link. The first mention is at the very beginning, the second at about the 1:50 mark.

On this date in 1980:
The Amateur Free-Agent Draft draft is held. The New York Mets have the first selection and draft outfielder Darryl Strawberry out of Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles. Also selected in the first round of this draft is future Red Sox manager Terry Francona (by the Expos) and current Oakland GM Billy Beane (by the Mets)

#291 Randy Scarbery

Who is this player?
Randy Scarbery, relief pitcher, Chicago White Sox
After leading the Chicago White Sox in appearances in 1979, things did not go as well for Randy Scarberry in 1980. When allowed three earned runs in his first appearance, and when April ended, his ERA was well over 5.00. He pitched in ten more games during May and began to get into a groove, allowing seven runs in 18.2 innings. To his surprise, he was sent to the minor leagues and then traded to the California Angels for infielder Todd Cruz. Randy never again made a appearance in a major league game, drawing the curtain on his brief two-year career.

A native of Fresno, California, Randy Scarbery was the first player selected twice in the first round of the amateur draft when Houston Astros selected him in 1970. He turned down an $86,000 bonus, choosing college instead, and was a standout at USC, a collegiate baseball powerhouse. The Trojans won the College World Series every year that Scarbery was on on the team, and he led the nation with 15 victories in 1973. He was drafted in the first round in 1973 by the current World Champion Oakland Athletics.

He immediately debuted at the Triple-A level, and although he sometimes struggled, he was often among the Pacific Coast League leaders in innings and starts. After three seasons in the Oakland organization, he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in April 1977 for fellow prospect Steve Dunning. He was granted free agency at the end of the season and signed on with the Chicago White Sox.

In Chicago he would finally break through and make the major league roster. He made his major league debut in April of 1979 and spent most of his rookie season coming out of the bullpen. He was used in virtually all roles, periodically used as a closer, long relief, and was even given five starting assignments. He finished his first season with a 2-8 record and a 4.62 ERA.

Scarbery didn't pitch anywhere after the 1980 season and I could not find any information on his whereabouts or activities post-baseball. Any information would be most appreciated.

Why I love this card
I loved the cartoons like the one depicted on the back of Scarbery's card. I always wanted to earn a trophy like that. The ones that I had always had a little baseball player on it and the bat always broke off.

Something else....
I found a little clip of Scarbery (along with several White Sox teammates) in Spring Training that you can find here.

On this date in 1980:
Ken Landreaux of the Minnesota Twins goes 0-for-4 in an 11 - 1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles, ending his hitting streak at 31 consecutive games, the longest streak in the American League since Dom DiMaggio hit safely in 34 games in a row in 1949.

#286 Darold Knowles

Who is this player?
Darold Knowles, relief pitcher, St. Louis Cardinals
After making the final cut in Spring Training, the 38-year old veteran Darold Knowles was hoping to get another season out of his well-used left arm. In only his second appearance, Knowles was treated rudely by the Pittsburgh Pirates, giving up a home run and a double and losing the game 12-10. Shortly thereafter, he was let go by the St. Louis Cardinals. Knowles did not appear in another game in 1980, and finished his 16-year career holding the record for most lifetime appearances by a lefthanded pitcher (765).

Best known for his time as one of Oakland's "Moustache Gang" of the 1970s, Darold Knowles was initially product of the University of Missouri. The Baltimore Orioles selected him as an amateur free agent in 1961 and he was a highly regarded prospect when he pitched a no-hitter in 1962 won 16 games with Elmira in the Eastern League the following year. After a brief appearance with the Orioles in 1965, Darold was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies. He spent only one year with the Phillies, finishing third in the National League in appearances and seventh in saves.

Traded to the Washington Senators in 1967, he was consistently one of the most durable and reliable pitchers in the baseball. Except for one year spent in the Air Force, Darold was consistently among the league leaders in appearances and saves. This workload earned him All Star recognition in 1969. Pitching in front of his hometown fans, Knowles worked the American League out of a jam in the third inning. He saved 64 games in a Washington uniform and posted a 2.46 ERA over his six seasons there.

When he was traded to the Oakland A's during the 1971 season it would prove to be the most successful run of Knowles' career. As setup man to Rollie Fingers, Knowles had an indispensable role with the A's as they won the World Series three consecutive years. Although he missed the 1972 season with a finger injury, he appeared in all seven games of the 1973 Classic, notching two saves and not allowing a run. No other pitcher before or since has replicated the feat of appearing in every game of a seven game set.

After his years in Oakland, Knowles became a journeyman, with stops with the Chicago Cubs, Montreal and finally in St. Louis. Like most players of his era, Knowles went into coaching when his career ended, with the Cardinals and the Philadelphia Phillies at the major league level. Most recently he was a pitching coach with the Dunedin Blue Jays. He also has a Facebook account with a friends ranging from George Brett to Casey Blake.

Why I love this card
The cartoon on the back was the first I had ever heard of Knowles' World Series feat. However, it always left me with the impression that Knowles didn't do as well as he did. Must be the squiggly arms and legs. Or the pained expression. Or maybe the really huge star.

Something else.....
Knowles' card is a DP variety, and it figures since I have four of these, but only one Don Baylor. We've also had a bit of a run lately of guys in their last season or last card. With Knowles, that makes five out of the last eight. I wonder if Topps knew something the rest of us didn't?

On this date in 1980:
The #1 song in the country on this date is "Funkytown" by Lipps, Inc. I'm having shivers just typing that.

#281 Paul Blair

Who is this player?
Paul Blair, reserve outfielder, Cincinnati Reds
As the 1980 began, Paul Blair's career seemed to be over. Released by the Cincinnati Reds, Blair had accepted a position as a roving hitting instructor and scout with the New York Yankees. When the Yankees began the season with several injuries to their outfielders, the 36-year old Blair was signed to a one-year deal and activated to the major league roster. It was strictly a stop-gap measure as Blair appeared in only 12 games, mainly as a pinch-runner and defensive replacement. It was the last action Blair would see in his 17-year career and he returned to his previous positions within the organization.

Considered to be one of the best defensive centerfielders of all-time, Paul Blair is an eight-time Gold Glove winner was who also a clutch hitter and four time World Champion. He began his professional career in 1961 as a member of the New York Mets system. The Mets left him unprotected the following year and he was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles, the team he would become most closely associated. Paul appeared as a pinch-runner in his major league debut in 1964 and appeared in eight games during his brief trial.

Before the 1965 season, Blair completed a six-month tour of duty with the Army Reserve at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, as a communications specialist. He earned the centerfielder's job in Spring Training and would remain there for the Orioles for the next 13 years. He helped lead the Baltimore to the World Series four times, winning twice (in 1966 and 1970). He had the game-winning home run in Game 3 of the 1966 Series win, and batted .474 in 1970 as the Orioles again took home the crown. Blair's combination of speed, defense and timely hitting made him one of the league's most dangerous players in his prime and he was a favorite of teammates, peers and fans.

Nicknamed "Motormouth," Blair was severely beaned in the skull in 1970 and eventually had to undergo hypnosis to restore confidence in his ability to avoid inside pitches. In January 1977, he was traded to the New York Yankees were he was essentially a reserve. A famous moment came early in the 1977 season when Billy Martin famously pulled Reggie Jackson mid-inning for loafing in a game in Boston. Blair was the one sent in for Reggie. Paul played in all six games of the 1978 World Series, batting .375. He was released early in the 1979 season and caught on with the Cincinnati Reds, where he batted only .150 in 75 games.

Blair was named head baseball coach of Fordham University in 1982 and later coached at the major league level with the Hosuton Astros. Paul also devoted his time to high school coaching, operating a baseball camp, and working as a sports coordinator for a clothing firm. He was also the head baseball coach at Coppin State College from 1998 to 2002. Three days before Christmas in 2009, Blair suffered a heart attack, with 98% blockage in his coronary artery. He has made a full recovery and is enjoying retirement working out and bowling in Woodstock, Maryland.

Why I love this card
My mitt in Little League was a Paul Blair model. Problem was, I had no idea who Paul Blair was at the time. The other kids had a Steve Garvey, a George Brett, a Ken Griffey. I knew who those guys were instantly. When I looked into the palm of my mitt, Paul Blair's signature was staring back at me. When I finally got this card, I was relieved to find out that Blair was indeed a major leaguer and an exceptional one a that. If only my fielding was as good.

Something else....
I'll be honest. This is not my favorite Paul Blair card. This is:


It is from the 1994 All Star Game that I was lucky enough to attend in Pittsburgh. The day before the game, they had the Upper Deck Heroes of Baseball game and Blair was the star. He hit a home run off of Hall of Famer Juan Marichal. He also scored from second on a single later in the game. He was interviewed on the field after that scoring play and uttered the now-famous line "I'm 'bout to die." The Three Rivers crowd cracked up and to this day, that's the first thing I think of when I think of Paul Blair.

On this date in 1980:


Next to these (and other) baseball cards, a major influence in my childhood was Star Wars. The Empire Strikes Back opened today in 1980. My Dad actually called me out of school so that we could see the 12 noon showing at the Eastland Twin in Harper Woods, MI. To know my Dad, you would have to know how extraordinary that is. He would never give permission to miss school yet he missed work to take me to the first showing.

In time, I would have Empire action figures, drinking glasses, posters, trading cards, a T-shirt, the works. We spent the summer wondering how Han Solo would get out of the carbonite and how cool Boba Fett was. I smile at those memories today and pause to reflect how quickly 30 years have passed.

#272 Ralph Garr

Who is this player?
Ralph Garr, utility, Chicago White Sox
Famously known as "Roadrunner," the 13-year career of Ralph Garr was over by the summer of 1980. Appearing in only a handful of games for the California Angels, Garr was released on June 6th. The 34-year old Garr was a career .306 hitter that was batting .190 at the time of his release and didn't catch on with another team. This upset Garr, who said:

I can’t understand it. I never complained. They (the Angels) weren’t fair with me. They’re giving guys $1 million a year today that couldn’t hold my jock.

Garr first attracted national attention when he batted .582 at Grambling College in 1967. This earned the Ruston, Louisiana native a mention in the "Faces in the Crowd" section of Sports Illustrated. The Atlanta Braves selected him that summer in the amateur draft and he batted .324 over four minor league seasons, including an International League record .386 in 1970. His bat earned him looks by the Braves three straight years (1968-1970) but his glovework was of concern to Atlanta and his time at the major league level was brief.

Ralph earned a break in 1971 when he replaced the injured Rico Carty as the Braves leftfielder. He responded with 219 hits, 101 runs scored and 30 stolen bases. His .343 average was good for second in the National League. The Braves, eager to capitalize on the recognition of their new star, reached an agreement with Warner Brothers Inc., for exclusive rights to formally nickname Garr Road Runner II. Yes, as in The Second. To his peers, however, Garr most often responded to Gator, in honor of his Louisiana heritage.

Garr would bat .317 over the next five seasons as a Brave regular, including a league-leading .353 in 1974. In what would be his career year, Garr was selected to the All-Star team en route to a circuit topping 214 hits and 17 triples. He became the Braves highest paid player through arbitration in February 1975, a bitter process for both sides. Garr was the subject of trade rumors all year and slumped, batting under .300 for the first time as a regular. Predictably, Atlanta traded him to the Chicago White Sox.

In Chicago, Garr was a solid everyday player, batting .300 twice. However, he never quite returned to All-Star status and didn't lead the league again in any offensive categories. He was one of the "South Side Hitmen" in 1977, typically batting out of the leadoff position. He was sold to the California Angels in 1979 as insurance for the stretch drive. The Angels went on to the playoffs, but Garr hit only .125 and did not make the postseason roster.

Since his retirement, Garr has been with the Braves organization since 1985 working as an area scout. He has also been honored by being inducted into Halls of Fame for the Atlanta Braves, the International League, the Louisiana Sports, and Grambling State. In 2009, he was inducted into the College Baseball Foundation’s Hall of Fame.

Why I love this card
Garr's flip shades were something that I wanted for probably five years. Nothing said "baseball player" more than the flips, they were ultra cool.

Something else....
I don't understand Topps' decision-making process. Garr was sold to the Angels in September of 1979 yet he is pictured here with the White Sox. Topps even acknowledges the transaction on the back of Garr's card. This is not without precedent as Topps did something similar with Dock Ellis' card. On the other hand, they airbrushed John Montague's card to reflect the new team. Don't get me wrong, I really like the photo used on this card and I'm not really a fan of airbrushing, but it would be nice to know the back story on why some cards were and some were not. Below is the 1980 OPC card that has the correct team indicated.



On this date in 1980:
The Toronto Blue Jays moved into first place in the AL East by way of their 9-2 win over the California Angels. It was the first time in team history the Jays (15-9) were in first place this late into the season. They would finish the 1980 season in last place at 67-95.

#266 Bernie Carbo

Who was this player?
Bernie Carbo, reserve outfielder, St. Louis Cardinals
By the time the 1980 season had ended, Bernie Carbo had completed a very interesting season. The lefthand hitting veteran began the season with the St. Louis Cardinals, appeared in only 14 games and was released on May 28th after batting just .182. When he failed to land a job with another major league club, he became a hairstylist in his native Detroit. The Pittsburgh Pirates signed him for the stretch drive, and he appeared in seven September games, batting .333. When the Pirates released him on October 8, his seven year major league career had come to an end.

As a highly touted prospect, Carbo was selected on the first round of the 1965 amatuer draft by the Cincinnati Reds, ahead of longtime Royal Hal McRae and future Hall of Famer Johnny Bench. He was with the Reds by 1970 and posted career highs in several offensive categories. Carbo helped lead the Reds to the World Series and was selected Rookie of the Year by The Sporting News. He was involved in one of the more controversial plays in Series history, when he was called out at home plate by umpire Ken Burkhart as Burkhart had his back to the play.

However, Carbo was unable to maintain the momentum of his strong rookie campaign. In recent years, he has claimed that he initially became addicted to speed in Cincinnati and that invariably led to other drugs. In Carbo's words:

I was introduced to cocaine in 1973. So from 1973-80, I was taking Dexedrine, Benzedrine, Darvons, sleeping pills, smoking dope, drinking beer, doing cocaine, and chasing women, and I never played a day without it.

He never again fully achieved full-time playing status and moved to several teams throughout his 12-year career: Cincinnati, St. Louis, Boston, Milwaukee, Cleveland, St. Louis and Pittsburgh. It was with the Red Sox, though, where Carbo achieved his greatest fame and made his deepest connection with fans. His pinch-hit home runs in the 1975 World Series endeared him across New England and when he was shipped out of Beantown in 1978, it was seen as a dramatic blow to the team's psyche.

After retiring, Carbo became a born-again Christian and stopped using drugs and alcohol. In 1993, he founded Diamond Club Ministry in an effort to aid and instruct youth. He was the manager of the independent Pensacola Pelicans for three years (2003-05) and was elected to the Red Sox Hall of Fame in 2004. He is also currently active with the Red Sox Alumni Association.

Why I love this card
In 1980, I knew nothing of Carbo's pinch-hit homers, his drug use or the play at the plate in the 1970 Series. All I knew was that Bernie Carbo had one awesome afro. My Mom thought that he looked like Art Garfunkel. Yes, I knew who Bernie Carbo was before I knew who Art Garfunkel was.

Something else....
I thought that it was ironic that the Carbo story made the rounds this week with a post on him upcoming. At first, I thought it was an April Fool's joke making the rounds on the internet, but apparently Carbo has been quite open about his addiction for some time. I still wish I could find more information about his time as a hairdresser.

On this date in 1980:
The Grateful Dead appeared on Saturday Night Live. You can watch a snippet of the show here. There's a brief mention of the Pirates in there and the start of the 1980 season.

#254 Paul Dade

Who is this player?
Paul Dade, utility player, San Diego Padres
As the 1980 season wound down, so did Paul Dade's six year major league career. In his second campaign with the Padres, Dade saw limited action playing primarily as a reserve. The season was a struggle for Dade as he batted only .189 in 68 games and he made four errors in only 26 chances in the field. He was tried in several different positions with the Padres all with little success. In December, the Padres gave Paul his unconditional release.

An outstanding high school player at Nathan Hale High School in Seattle, the righthand hitting Dade twice was the top high school batsman in the state. With the build more akin to a football player, Dade was considered a top prospect when the Angels drafted him with the 10th pick of the 1970 amateur draft. He signed for $60,000 and bought his mother a home before reporting for minor league duty. The Angels hoped that he would man third base in the coming years.

Paul made his major league debut in 1975 but received little playing time with the Angels. He led the PCL in defensive categories and was the league's batting champion in 1976. In the early days of free agency, Dade was allowed to negotiate a contract and signed with the Cleveland Indians for 1977. With Buddy Bell established at third, Dade was moved to the outfield and he performed well in his first season as a regular. Appearing in 134 games he batted .291 and was even assigned a Kellogg's baseball card based on his performance. The following year, however, the Indians traded him to the San Diego Padres for Mike Hargrove.

He never found regular playing time in San Diego and signed to play in Japan in 1981. Paul was released at midseason by the Hanshin Tigers for arguing with the manager over playing time. His playing career ended in the minors in 1982, when he was let go at midseason by the Portland Beavers. Today, Paul lives a modest life in his home state, working for box making company. Like most folks, he is living to make ends meet for his family and is far removed from the major league life.

Why I love this card
I had seven Paul Dade cards at one point. I stress had since I got curious at one point and wanted to see what would happen if you ran over a card with a lawnmower. This Dade card was the unfortunate choice. The results were predictable. The lawnmower won. No wonder I had so many Dade cards, this was a double printed card and we haven't seen one in a while.

Something else....
We've had a stretch where three of the last four guys saw their major league careers over by the end of 1980. Throw in Ted Cox and all of them were done by 1981. After longtime veterans Phil Niekro, Jim Kaat and Jim Clancy, the pendulum has swung the other way.

On this date in 1980:
The San Antonio Spurs fired coach Doug Moe as the Spurs struggled to reach .500. Moe would land in Denver, where he would coach the Nuggets for ten seasons.

#253 John Montague

Who is this player?
John Montague, relief pitcher, California Angels
In what would be the final year of his seven-year major league career, John Montague of the California Angels was very effective to start the 1980 season. He earned two saves the first month and was the most reliable setup man on the Angels' staff. However, he had a rough second half and had a 11.25 ERA in August. Like many Angels that year, he became injured and missed the last month of the season. The righthanded Montague finished the year 4-2 with three saves and a 5.13 ERA.

A native of Newport News, Virgina, John Montague played college baseball at Old Dominion University and was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the third round of the 1967 amateur draft. He spent several years pitching in the Orioles system and was traded to the Montreal Expos in April, 1973. He made his major league debut that year but spent his Expo career shuttling between Quebec and the minor leagues. Unable to find a consistent role for him, Montreal released Montague at the end of the 1975 season.

He was quickly signed by the Philadelphia Phillies, with whom he made only three appearances. John again was assigned to the minor leagues in 1976, where he won 14 games and was named American Association Pitcher of the Year. This caught the eyes of the expansion Seattle Mariners, who selected John to be a member of the inaugural team in 1977. He was team's first ever relief pitcher and earned the first save in Mariner history on April 9, 1977.

Montague saw some action as a starting pitcher, but made history as a reliever. He set an American League record in mid-season when he retired 33 consectutive batters. He finished second on the team in wins, appearances and innings pitched. Montague was sidelined with hip pain in 1978; a benign tumor was found and removed after the season. He was traded to the Angels in late August of 1979 and won two games and saved five, playing a key role in the Halos division title.

He appeared in the postseason for the only time in his career and allowed the famous home run to John Lowenstein in the 12th inning of Game 1. The Angels would lose the ALCS to Baltimore in four games. He was released in Spring Training of 1981 and was not picked up by another team. Any information on his current whereabouts would be most appreciated.

Why I love this card
There are not many blatant example of airbrushing in the 1980 set. Airbrushing was a staple of many Topps sets over the years, but so far there haven't been any really obvious ones. Montague's card, however, falls into that category, as it appears Topps used a picture from earlier years. Case in point, here is Montague's 1979 card:


Here's some pertient parts of that card up close:



Compare this with the 1980 Montague card and it appears that the shots were taken on the same day, down to the cloudless blue sky.


Something else....
Montague's record was actually shared with Royals' hurler Steve Busby who accomplished the feat in 1974. The record has since been broken and is held by Mark Buehrle. He retired 45 consecutive batters in 2009. The National League record belongs to Jim Barr of the San Francisco Giants who retired 41 straight batters in 1972.

On this day in 1980:
Musical theme today: Dizzy Gillespe appeared on the Muppet Show, Pink Floyd performed at Nassau Colisuem and Queen had the #1 song in the country with "A Crazy Little Thing Called Love."

#221 Joe Cannon

Who is this player?
Joe (J.J.) Cannon, outfielder, Toronto Blue Jays
A strong Spring Training earned the lefthand hitting Joe Cannon a spot on the Toronto Blue Jays roster in 1980. He was used sporadically, mainly as a pinch runner, thanks to his tremendous speed. J.J. did not notch his first base hit until June 17th. Cannon appeared in 70 games in 1980 and batted a meager .080. He scored more runs (16) than he had hits (4). J.J. did not return to the major leagues after the year, ending his four-year career.

The Camp Lejeune, North Carolina native, Cannon was the son of a retired marine who gave his son a passion for sports, specifically baseball. He was drafted in the first round of the 1974 amateur draft out of Pensacola (FL) Junior College. Cannon established himself as a prospect in the Astros organization, batting no less than .290 in four straight minor league seasons. He was given two brief looks at the end of the 1977 and 1978 seasons, appearing in only 17 games.

However, the Astros included him in a package following the 1978 season in a trade for catcher Alan Ashby. He split time between Toronto and Triple-A in 1979, batting .211 with the Blue Jays. In 148 big league games, he batted .176 and returned to the minor leagues for the final three seasons of his professional career (1981-1983).

Following his playing days, Cannon began a long career as coach and manager. He managed for 11 season at the Rookie and Single-A level for the Blue Jays, being named Manager of the Year for the New York-Penn League in 1993. He returned to the Astros organization in 2001 where he spent six seasons in several coaching capacities. He moved on to the Orioles organization in 2007 and has spent the last three years coaching with the Frederick Keys.

Why I love this card
At this stage in my life, I didn't understand the difference between minor league and major league baseball. When I saw a guy do well in the minors, it didn't make sense to me why they couldn't do the same at the major league level. It seemed unfair to see the .300 averages scattered in his batting record with a bottom line of .203.

Something else....
Not only is this Cannon's rookie card, but it is his only card. So far in the 1980 set, he is the fourth card to have that distinction (Eddy Putman, Fred Howard and Tony Brizzolara)

#217 Ed Halicki

Who is this player?
Ed Halicki, starting pitcher, San Francisco Giants
After nearly a year of injuries, disappointments and public complaints, Ed Halicki's welcome was just about worn out as the 1980 season began. The imposing 6'7" righthander feuded with Giants brass over his role on the pitching staff and he began the year in the bullpen. He did not pitch well, yet continued to criticize management in the press. Tired of his antics, he was sold to the California Angels in June. He finished the 1980 season in Anaheim in what would be the seventh and final season of his major league career.

A graduate of Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey, Ed Halicki was a two-sport college star in baseball and basketball. He scored 1,777 career points with over 1,500 rebounds and still holds the school record with 40 rebounds in a single game. He chose a career in baseball when he was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 1972. He quickly worked his way through the bush leagues and made his debut two years later.

The following season, 1975, Halicki achieved his greatest individual feat by pitching a no-hitter on August 24. Although he was in the midst of a 9-13 season, the general consensus was that Halicki was part of a group of young pitchers that would lead the Giants into contention. By 1977, Halicki was the Giants most effective starting pitcher, leading the team in victories, ERA and innings pitched.

Things came together briefly for the Giants in 1978 as San Francisco led the NL West for most of the season before finally fading. Halicki was part of the team's strength, starting pitching. He pitched a one-hitter that year and was ninth in the NL in ERA. However, Halicki and the Giants were unable to recapture that magic as the 1979 season imploded among injuries and dissension. Halicki spent part of that year on the DL, feuded with manager Joe Altobelli and was fined for drinking on a team flight. He finished 5-8 with a 4.68 ERA.

Halicki tried catching on with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1981, but was released near the end of Spring Training. He pitched in the Senior Professional League in 1989-90 and was a fixture at Giants Old Timers events and the closing of Candlestick Park in 1999. He was inducted into the Monmouth Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.

Why I love this card
I always loved this version of the Giants hat. Something about the two-toned cap with the orange bill appealed to me. However, Halicki looks like he put on a kid's cap for his 1980 picture - it appears way too small. I always wanted this hat when I was a kid, never did get it.

Something else....
In reviewing Halicki's career, in hindsight, I can't imagine why he was so insistent on ripping the Giants' managers, GM and organization as a whole. Back then, "outspoken" was often used as code for "pain in the a**." Halicki must have known that his performance on the mound combined with his mouth was not reflecting well on him and sure enough, he was out of the bigs by age 30. I never understood why athletes, both then and now, would do that.