tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84038356521659609232024-02-20T02:23:13.369+00:00THE PURSUIT OF 80's(ness)Baseball card collecting from 'Across The Pond'.jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.comBlogger411125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-46548638353077754032015-01-07T22:08:00.001+00:002015-01-07T22:08:44.481+00:00Card in the Wallet...I'm in!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83heBfDEUAG70aItCnHUMxuRJeUhcr2PbvIlO85db-5dtAr-4_E5LgLOUfu005H0WVu9ul1f70aRk34P9m9mEdfK8Z4Wq3tH1rmC8E3XmC9XCOjELIrxJp22GELfuMfNFo6jVIgzR23WO/s1600/Wallet+Card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83heBfDEUAG70aItCnHUMxuRJeUhcr2PbvIlO85db-5dtAr-4_E5LgLOUfu005H0WVu9ul1f70aRk34P9m9mEdfK8Z4Wq3tH1rmC8E3XmC9XCOjELIrxJp22GELfuMfNFo6jVIgzR23WO/s1600/Wallet+Card.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Here we go...<br />
2009 Goudey Jacoby Ellsbury is in the wallet.jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-57002915006969266382014-06-08T21:25:00.000+01:002014-06-08T21:39:05.179+01:00And finally a room to store my cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49jjPbPUoDtLx5H-ekUga8HHll9PcPaqX6dTDecoMxaNnRN1GQGmCuup046qxCFHJaC_nnjOdtIqfr1PrqlEpH1rInNhGeqo29e7_WFW0QHiPjHtwxgDenCq_1QF0nYMi35kD12ySYam3/s1600/IMG_0134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7XODuuR0rt-SzVgn9E-BkR_rGPp2DWyrVkXZlNOmYQ_ydOTgiFzpPKWF80WPmnox-kbw-BCSNekqTv-Bpzp_zkLQJe72_y45dk4UwufC4E5PggE2QWZvjlPwLUrnxMMfFCooDXvN9S0Q/s1600/IMG_0137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSN9qGluZPve9vSOn2VxNDWm0DSmNcPVcnhbylxrrjNtSC7F3RgJmTsv0FRWXQjE7Svb9jlq9nsLCStXAZRD_GXWWWcXhc8mvU3RagekqccY6Itt9kwUfEXdxlJ2HVD9krcTgilAf7FrnG/s1600/IMG_0136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSN9qGluZPve9vSOn2VxNDWm0DSmNcPVcnhbylxrrjNtSC7F3RgJmTsv0FRWXQjE7Svb9jlq9nsLCStXAZRD_GXWWWcXhc8mvU3RagekqccY6Itt9kwUfEXdxlJ2HVD9krcTgilAf7FrnG/s1600/IMG_0136.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for years to go up</td></tr>
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It is just over a year ago that building work started on my house. What should have taken, by our ex-builders estimate, 12 weeks to complete is still after 54 weeks unfinished.<br />
But enough of that...<br />
One bonus of the build was to add a little study, which was promised as a card room. There were however, other priorities like a non-leaking roof and kitchen sink.<br />
I took a break from the kitchen to concentrate on papering, adding architrave, installing cupboards and a desk to create my very own room.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGUcEU_GIaisRxkulyAuMRDGpD7FkzPlZiBmv0UvOI9QB9vnQpXCWUg3L6s2MrvTHVK0AeJCU_Xk8TI_E1QvQQ4xyHVtsltG-rlK8zWkGQPXocedEp3-Or1IV8OJMp2y4f5lSmArJBV_G/s1600/IMG_0130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGUcEU_GIaisRxkulyAuMRDGpD7FkzPlZiBmv0UvOI9QB9vnQpXCWUg3L6s2MrvTHVK0AeJCU_Xk8TI_E1QvQQ4xyHVtsltG-rlK8zWkGQPXocedEp3-Or1IV8OJMp2y4f5lSmArJBV_G/s1600/IMG_0130.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Folders organised</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHv38H2ZArRltBfgnraklXwmyFwqypclF6vmrtl4ygOXJhyj1xqgpdTn82FTTlmdAd4xgLE5li4WMi5-P7V8DG9tvYdqgmdEAzY3moqdWb89Zp5E68vWJY0GlAFgqKQwS66nfkJQpNh2Ik/s1600/IMG_0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHv38H2ZArRltBfgnraklXwmyFwqypclF6vmrtl4ygOXJhyj1xqgpdTn82FTTlmdAd4xgLE5li4WMi5-P7V8DG9tvYdqgmdEAzY3moqdWb89Zp5E68vWJY0GlAFgqKQwS66nfkJQpNh2Ik/s1600/IMG_0131.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a few boxes to sort through</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We will get there eventually</td></tr>
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Sure it might not look like much, but it is all mine...jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-36391909729755954382014-05-09T20:43:00.000+01:002015-08-22T15:11:58.185+01:00Is this a legitimate card?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeTbSNKhVXoBgZz0FLK_v4Wj7vG3BULpYn3uLBZrUKldpU7zqRMaPOuf_dPuWt66nOafOtH4h7Du1L5eG7Zvswg2gHqDrq0PX2GHSTA24j5SxzvdPlynMKhdRaqs3pcXBDjoBRoOigru2/s1600/GLACIER+Ellsbury+2003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeTbSNKhVXoBgZz0FLK_v4Wj7vG3BULpYn3uLBZrUKldpU7zqRMaPOuf_dPuWt66nOafOtH4h7Du1L5eG7Zvswg2gHqDrq0PX2GHSTA24j5SxzvdPlynMKhdRaqs3pcXBDjoBRoOigru2/s320/GLACIER+Ellsbury+2003.jpg" /></a></div>
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Simple question.</div>
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Is this a legitimate card? </div>
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A few of these cards from 2003 have turned up on e-Bay ranging from the $99 price range to $9.</div>
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The <a href="http://www.ebay.ph/itm/2003-ANCHORAGE-GLACIER-PILOTS-JACOBY-ELLSBURY-RC-11-EXTREMELY-RARE-/131159566807?pt=US_Baseball&hash=item1e89b829d7&_uhb=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">$99 card</span> </a>does little to explain the pedigree except to say it is 'extremely rare' and it is 'Jacoby's first rookie card from summer ball in Alaska'. </div>
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The <a href="http://www.ebay.ph/itm/Red-Sox-New-York-Yankees-Jacoby-Ellsbury-Rookie-Rc-Alaska-Glacier-Pilots-Amateur-/141269503919?pt=US_Baseball&hash=item20e4518faf&_uhb=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">$9 card </span></a>explains in greater detail, and there are 10 available. </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>'This is Jacoby Ellsbury amateur baseball card. The Alaska Summer League is a amateur only league for young college players on the west coast to play in all summer. ITS NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY PRO-LEAGUE. All the players don't </i>(sic)<i>get paid. This was made by the team it appears. This is NOT a mainstream issued card. The team had them made in town and they are on card stock.'</i></blockquote>
However the picture is terrible and it is possible that anyone with decent scanner/printer and equipment could whip up their own. The seller, although has a few negative feedbacks, appears to be legit.<br />
It would be a nice addition to the collection but is it the real thing?jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-62337704746132610132014-04-09T21:42:00.000+01:002014-04-09T21:42:17.970+01:00Back in the Saddle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KWvGa3Jkxc5-XQpdxcWzOALnQst-3BtzzlCnJBaoxCx33hg8D3KdjUnssYlOOPf1avNEfG58bATpCa5VxF2XFrEqTb7aHmsnsiATVxSrjBGGqv4gxDYP28Z0k_68IAi7DQhZzHp8Rh1O/s1600/back-in-the-saddle-movie-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KWvGa3Jkxc5-XQpdxcWzOALnQst-3BtzzlCnJBaoxCx33hg8D3KdjUnssYlOOPf1avNEfG58bATpCa5VxF2XFrEqTb7aHmsnsiATVxSrjBGGqv4gxDYP28Z0k_68IAi7DQhZzHp8Rh1O/s1600/back-in-the-saddle-movie-poster.jpg" height="320" width="205" /></a></div>
well almost....<div>
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The building work on my house is very close to completion. It has taken a ridiculously long time because we 'fell out' with our builders. The work was off to a promising start in May, started to turn sour in September, when it should have been completed(and nothing was). Then really went pear shaped in late November, 25 weeks into what should have been a 16 week job. It was then we came to gut wrenching decision of asking the builders not to return. That was difficult, as we had no kitchen- no oven or hob. We had a makeshift sink and a microwave. No electricity in the new loft conversion, making it uninhabitable, so neither of the two projects were completed. But the single most disappointing thing, and this was what the build was about, our twin daughters (who had now turned 11years old) still shared a room with my wife and I. </div>
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The other annoying by-product of the building work is that all my baseball cards are tucked away in boxes in the shed and in a cupboard that is blocked by ovens, which are waiting to be installed. In all honesty I shouldn't complain. As I have explained to my mother-in-law ( a glass half empty sort of person), we are healthy, happy, a little stressed maybe but when it is finally finished the house will be lovely. Plus I will have my own little study, a baseball card room all to myself. She understood all this but my mother-in-law couldn't see the importance of the baseball card room!</div>
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All this upheaval has made 2013 and the beginning of 2014 very lean times in relation to baseball products in the Arnold household. There has been great excitement amongst the UK baseball card collecting fraternity about 2014 Topps Heritage. I stood by as boxes of the stuff were opened and sets completed, while thoughts then moved onto what product next to collect, Allen and Ginter or Goodwin's. Jealous...too right.</div>
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I did set myself some goals while on this enforced baseball card vacation. </div>
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Firstly to collect an autographed Jacoby Ellsbury card, a Jacoby Ellsbury booklet and Jacoby Ellsbury printing plate, in no particular order.</div>
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Secondly, to complete the 2013 Topps Heritage base set plus a relic card, autograph and an oversized box loader.</div>
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Thirdly, to complete the Lenticular insert sets I had started recently, Lineage 3D, Archives 3D and Opening Day Stars...1970 Kellogg's.</div>
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Finally to keep up to date with the latest Jacoby Ellsbury cards.</div>
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I can report some progress towards these goals.</div>
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1. Collected a Jacoby Ellsbury printing plate and 2 booklets.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfinneKAWOlpy5jDDZsqvADOkSPlW2o0oLriHQyfthtRdhsxmISbVc9NriwD9MEMAasG7hw1kLT6IOpN6x6na_PyLCIEMO8C1cYwMnb88WieA2ARs5lM1v-QPKcovwQGbw6RFJfxt_KmGH/s1600/100+scan0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfinneKAWOlpy5jDDZsqvADOkSPlW2o0oLriHQyfthtRdhsxmISbVc9NriwD9MEMAasG7hw1kLT6IOpN6x6na_PyLCIEMO8C1cYwMnb88WieA2ARs5lM1v-QPKcovwQGbw6RFJfxt_KmGH/s1600/100+scan0001.jpg" height="223" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Completed 2013 Topps thanks to the amazing generosity of a UK collector called Glenn,</div>
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3. Completed Lineage, Archives and Opening Day, made a big dent in 1970's Kellogg's</div>
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4. This is really old news now but it was sadly announced that Jacoby Ellsbury no longer played baseball... for a decent team... and although I tried, I just could bring myself to collect Jacoby in a Yankees uniform. It wasn't right. It is with a heavy heart I must say that my<span style="color: #cc0000;"> <a href="http://jacobypursuit.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">'Pursuit of Jacoby'</span></a> </span>stops at the 2014 Heritage, Tribute and the Upper Class insert. Although I will still chip away at the older cards.</div>
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Hopefully in a few weeks my vigour for collecting will be renewed and I can start writing (and trading) again.</div>
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In the meantime I was given 6 packs of 2014 Topps Series One by my friend and boss. Something about a gift for my 50th birthday, which is in a few days. I will share them at<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><a href="http://pursuitofredsox.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">'Pursuit of Red Sox'</span></a></span></div>
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Thank you for your patience. </div>
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jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-78011806018365181402013-10-19T22:46:00.001+01:002013-10-19T22:46:40.482+01:00Buy me some peanuts....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26hR2EK6jE1-0E86Cyihf3TRXDP8sTfroM-xck7bS25LjlyyGR5CZB9cbd-1dnfhOiw_r76LbgdDTrUIK0j3-ebpg81wDIjS0kTstCK1ztBWmn2Sr6cDR3XD3zwA89ew-6iqsdhCUS1qX/s1600/100_5631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26hR2EK6jE1-0E86Cyihf3TRXDP8sTfroM-xck7bS25LjlyyGR5CZB9cbd-1dnfhOiw_r76LbgdDTrUIK0j3-ebpg81wDIjS0kTstCK1ztBWmn2Sr6cDR3XD3zwA89ew-6iqsdhCUS1qX/s320/100_5631.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It is about 20 weeks ago that building work on our house started and it looks as if it will continue for a few more weeks. Although the house will be lovely when it is finished, there have been some drawbacks. Besides living in less space with four children, my baseball card collection is stored away in boxes which are inaccessible. They were to remain there until the work is completed and for the foreseeable future. That was until I have found myself with a little study. <br />
To gain access to the loft conversion, we lost a small bedroom to accommodate the stairs. <br />
On the original plans we were losing the whole room, but the builders were able to move the stairs a little and only use half the bedroom. Hence a study was created. Some discussion took place about what to do with unexpected space, create a sewing room or a study for my daughters, surprisingly the conversation took a direction I wasn't expecting. A place to store my card collection and so that is what it is to become.<br />
I haven't uploaded a blog post for the past five months for a number of reasons. In the building process, we lost telephone and internet connection, digital television, electricity and hot water for a short while. I have completed some one sided trades but besides this I haven't purchased any baseball related items, so things have gone quiet. Although I can assure you card collecting is still very much on my mind.<br />
Today I took my boys to the local shopping centre to buy a game and wandered around while they made their selection. Just outside the shop there was a market selling paintings, wood carvings, rugs and such like. I paid little attention until I reached a small booth that was selling sweets. To my surprise they had a number of unusual chocolate bars with names like Hershey's, Butterfingers, Charleston Chew, Reece's Peanut Butter cups, Baby Ruth and Milk Duds. These may be all to familiar with our friends 'Across the Pond' but not in Kent.<br />
The selection peaked my interest and I started chatting to the fellow running the store, who imported these products to his bigger store locally. I told him of my baseball interest and card collecting. I have found that I can get this into conversation with a few minutes. Lo and Behold he said he might have something that would interest me. There was a swell of excitement, when I imagined that he might retrieve a box of 2013 Topps or Panini from behind his counter, however this was not the case. What he did give me was a box of Cracker Jacks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNn2Vd2kZd6uw_DGhFu89DlnkStSVwITcz6LqgmrhwDDsc16eNNRYK6LFn2EvgeSfxyJ6P6Lsn4Noz65oHd8dn_Vqeo_uBDNncaIKMYbIaFB5bAbgYX-oaJeXpBgG3RiUjplNtxlZaepF/s1600/100+scan0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNn2Vd2kZd6uw_DGhFu89DlnkStSVwITcz6LqgmrhwDDsc16eNNRYK6LFn2EvgeSfxyJ6P6Lsn4Noz65oHd8dn_Vqeo_uBDNncaIKMYbIaFB5bAbgYX-oaJeXpBgG3RiUjplNtxlZaepF/s320/100+scan0001.jpg" width="156" /></a></div>
I have seen these before, but none that I could actually eat. <br />
We chatted some more while I devoured the box of caramel coated popcorn and nuts. Very nice. It hadn't occurred to him to import American sports cards, his shop was primarily foods, drinks, sweets from the US and Canada. He said he would keep an eye out, so I agreed to visit his shop in Margate. I thanked him for the Cracker Jacks and bid him farewell, still feeling the aftermath of the surge of adrenalin bought on by the possibility of obtaining baseball cards or it could have been the Cracker Jacks!<br />
The prize within my Cracker Jacks was a baseball sticker. Which was as close as I would be getting to baseball cards today.<br />
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I will keep you posted about the baseball study when it is finished. jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-85884765090294018762013-08-09T22:12:00.000+01:002013-08-09T22:12:00.268+01:00Trade with Cardboard Catastophes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Trade is only half correct. I have yet to send my end of the trade. <br />
Jeff from <a href="http://cardboardcatastrophes.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Cardboard Catastrophes</a> was in the process of 'downsizing' his baseball card collection. We all know what that is like. He contacted me saying he had some 1969 Deckle Edge would I be interested?<br />
Yes please... Not only did 10 1969 Deckle Edge cards arrive, but a large stack of 2013 Heritage, apparently he only bought one blaster and it was tailor made for me! Plus a few more Kimball Champions, which helped to finally complete this insert set.<br />
This is the special thing I have encountered through blogging - people are always generous. These are people, fellow collectors, who you have never met and are never likely to meet. Just happy that the cards are going to a good home. <br />
'Hey I found these and thought I would include them.' <br />
Thank you Jeff.<br />
Nothing beats receiving yellow packages in the post.<br />
<br />jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-27255614517001147522013-07-06T22:57:00.001+01:002013-07-06T22:57:13.690+01:00High Five<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was watching some baseball highlights on the IPad, while my daughter looked, with mild fascination, over my shoulder. She then commented:</div>
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<em>"Why do they do that so much?"</em> </blockquote>
She was referring to art of the 'High Five'. While it may be growing in popularity on this side of The Pond, it doesn't appear to be a regular occurrence in sport, or not that I noticed.<br />
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<em>"These are only highlights," I wisely informed her. "It is a way of celebration in baseball. I'm not sure it happens that much."</em></blockquote>
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I stand corrected - I think she might be on to something...</div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-32438155285745266462013-06-05T21:56:00.000+01:002013-06-05T21:56:24.571+01:00Pursuit of 70's(ness)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No it isn't a change in name of this blog, more a change of direction. <br />
We started some building work on our house and for this to take pace we needed to condense our living space, which meant moving some unnecessary items into storage. A long argument ensured as baseball cards fell into the unnecessary category. I didn't really have a leg to stand on, but I argued none the less. My baseball card collection takes up a cupboard (or two), there were piles of baseball cards on various surfaces and packaging materials scattered about. So I did what any loving husband would do and purchased some large plastic boxes and packed away the majority of my collections. In doing so I realised that I have accumulated a large'ish' collection of Red Sox relic cards and a hefty portion of cards from the 1970's.<br />
At first I thought about ignoring them, but like many collectors having a semi completed set is difficult to ignore, it's untidy and unsettling. I have already added a lifelong pursuit of 1964 Topps, so adding 10 more sets to the lifelong pursuit category, on paper, didn't appear to be too much of a stretch.<br />
In the next few weeks I will add some checklists and although I may not attack them as aggressively as I did the 1980 Topps set, they will slowly tick away in the background and will one day become completed sets.<br />
As of today, June 5th 2013, I will try to complete all of the Topps sets from the 1970's. <br />
Where to start? 1970 or 1979?<br />
<br />jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-69753195277144799572013-05-26T21:03:00.001+01:002013-05-27T20:51:34.535+01:00UK Games Expo board game convention Birmingham 2013<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaC7vKiAxV-Fgt6KUcu90Or3w9StYcLiVph9I2SheF8X8TX3q72vBFuWFLakzidHHfsL61PiEEZay4l0udAtwnqNBJYtzNqfH9y46_o3Zbzu_rrTELkT2p_ueoq9Yx3Jmf2cZeT9rc2ura/s1600/Games+Con+May+2013+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaC7vKiAxV-Fgt6KUcu90Or3w9StYcLiVph9I2SheF8X8TX3q72vBFuWFLakzidHHfsL61PiEEZay4l0udAtwnqNBJYtzNqfH9y46_o3Zbzu_rrTELkT2p_ueoq9Yx3Jmf2cZeT9rc2ura/s320/Games+Con+May+2013+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carcassonne just after breakfast</td></tr>
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While I might not be the biggest board game aficionado, I enjoy playing Settlers of Catan, Carcassonne and the occasional game of Ticket to Ride, my preference is always collecting baseball cards. However I was tempted along to this Expo by my friend Dion and my two sons, who are Yugioh collectors (players?).<br />
The Hilton Metropol Hotel in Birmingham had pretty much dedicated the hotel to board game players, every possible table, chair and vacant space was occupied by people playing board games. Entire rooms absorbed in some of the more popular 'roleplay' games.<br />
My sons were pleased that Komani had a stand wholehearted committed to Yugioh and although missing out on a tournament, they were the recipients of so many free packs of cards they almost filled the hotel room. They were pretty happy. <br />
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After spending the morning walking around watching an excited Dion purchase game after game and participating in some demonstrations of games that were a little too difficult for me to understand, I started lamenting about the fact that this would never happen in regard to sports cards, not in the UK anyway. <br />
Topps have Attax Expos, which are predominantly attended by children and possibly an unhappy parent, who may be forcibly dragged along, unfortunately while I may enjoy collecting them, I do not fit into the Attax demographic. I do, however, fit into the board game mould easily- middle aged, carrying a little extra weight and male. There were people of the female variety, dutiful girlfriends or wives and there were some male and females in costume, which my son helpfully explained was 'Cosplay' or LARPing, which of course I knew. I do watch 'The Big Bang Theory' after all. <br />
But an Expo for sports cards collectors, football or American sports, I'm not sure would ever take place. It is a nice thought (or dream)though-strolling around a hall filled with various boxes, packs and loose cards/stickers of sports cards, instead of board games, role play figures and game books.<br />
Truth be told, I actually enjoyed myself. It's not often that you get to sit around drinking Boddingtons, while trying to work out whether to build a road or another settlement. We met some interesting fellow gamers, had a chat to Larry Roznai the CEO of Mayfair games, the publishers of Settlers of Catan. and played so many different games in two days, it is unlikely I will ever remember how to play them again. Plus we met one of our favourite characters.<br />
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Although I will continue to imagine a UK sports card expo.jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-40352824598970684052013-05-12T19:19:00.000+01:002013-05-12T19:19:31.528+01:00Baseball packs from the Alley family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In the early days of this blog, back in 2008, I was contacted by a reader whose boys were mad football (soccer) fans. They supported Everton and had difficulty purchasing football related items and since I was in the United Kingdom would I mind sending some soccer 'stuff' their way. In exchange they would send me some baseball 'stuff'. <br />
This seemed like a nice arrangement, so I duly obliged and send football magazines, stickers, packs and a badge or two. <br />
Little did I expect to receive a large assortment of baseball packs in return. <br />
Packages go back and forth between us about two or three times a year, when new football cards or stickers are released a package works it way to North Carolina and then a baseball package will find its way to Westgate-on-Sea. I look forward to these surprise packages immensely, always jam packed full of baseball pack loveliness. <br />
This Saturday another Alley pack arrived on my doorstep. <br />
The contents:<br />
5 packs 2013 Topps Heritage<br />
3 Jumbo packs of 2013 Opening Day<br />
6 packs of 2013 Opening Day<br />
2 rack packs of 2013 Topps Series 1<br />
2 packs of Topps Series 1<br />
1 block(60 cards) of 2013 Topps Series 1<br />
1 pack of 2012 Triple Play<br />
1 pack of 2012 Opening day<br />
1 pack of 2011 Opening day<br />
1 rack pack 2011 Bowman<br />
2 packs 2011 Topps Chrome<br />
1 pack of 2008 UD First Edition<br />
1 pack of 2008 Topps<br />
1 pack of 2007 Fleer Ultra<br />
2 packs of 1989 Donruss<br />
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So there is some junk wax, who cares, these are packs of baseball cards.<br />
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You just have to love the internet and how it connects people from all over the world.jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-58625954923429100312013-05-06T14:01:00.000+01:002013-05-07T19:58:59.973+01:002013 Topps Heritage baseball <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PZFOCOQRtBv71wNJTwfN_HwQyL4vtxLgFTf1bp6C6EUnp7ii5rB4NrEoD0t-nPDAzv1bTe_jHVdEjJSI6PTlmxMQyl136hJze2Y0CUaBKfB6KNncK7NUd-tKzmAmuByPFAV2FtggLTCl/s1600/100+scan0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PZFOCOQRtBv71wNJTwfN_HwQyL4vtxLgFTf1bp6C6EUnp7ii5rB4NrEoD0t-nPDAzv1bTe_jHVdEjJSI6PTlmxMQyl136hJze2Y0CUaBKfB6KNncK7NUd-tKzmAmuByPFAV2FtggLTCl/s320/100+scan0001.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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I have been a little negligent of this blog in the past 6 months or so. There are just so many other superior blogs popping up across the interwebs that it is difficult to keep up. One thing is still certain- I still collect baseball cards and still enjoy trading. </div>
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The set I looked forward to most in 2013, was Topps Heritage. The majority of the posts in 2013 have been about Heritage and the Pursuit to collect the 425 base set. With another blaster under the belt and a chunk of cards from e-bay there are only a 146 cards left to collect. </div>
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Follow my <a href="http://pursuitofredsox.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2013-topps-heritage-baseball.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Pursuit of 2013 Heritage.</span></a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDiFaqTZ9WmqgixQXTT4OvQts1CEtgoWZvQCYg0jd5dyoX7vmiIBVNH9loe6vlflyVnQPI6pN5Fke22XlXnpBBjFi1XASc5kQP_F1K1m2MFQEJEt529iFWnPhU0K9AJz0MLYxSR_EeZMQ/s1600/100+scan0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDiFaqTZ9WmqgixQXTT4OvQts1CEtgoWZvQCYg0jd5dyoX7vmiIBVNH9loe6vlflyVnQPI6pN5Fke22XlXnpBBjFi1XASc5kQP_F1K1m2MFQEJEt529iFWnPhU0K9AJz0MLYxSR_EeZMQ/s320/100+scan0002.jpg" width="201" /></a></div>
Despite not being as squashed as the last blaster, here are the 8 packs of 2013 Heritage goodness. There is meant to be either an insert or short printed card in each 9 card pack<br />
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<strong><u>Pack 1:</u></strong></div>
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#25 Andrew Cashner Padres</div>
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#92 Chris Young Athletics</div>
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#93 Christian Friedrich Rockies </div>
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#193 Garrett Jones Pirates</div>
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#208 Huston Street Padres</div>
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#303 Grant Balfour Athletics</div>
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#322 Scott Baker Cubs</div>
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#393 Pat Neshek Athletics</div>
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#BF-WM Willie Mays Giants </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzeeitmbxJWbrFeZoKygNtL8dAvvD9Cw9f8nbY_0ZLVz3kDCWQbFXaZIKMryQaE-mq1qV0GTtG8uy54iXgDqrcRgPkFJuVlMqPXUtUw9Mp6tourOC3sOkLWZPUo-SiiGKma4EBeX5ceNw/s1600/100+scan0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzeeitmbxJWbrFeZoKygNtL8dAvvD9Cw9f8nbY_0ZLVz3kDCWQbFXaZIKMryQaE-mq1qV0GTtG8uy54iXgDqrcRgPkFJuVlMqPXUtUw9Mp6tourOC3sOkLWZPUo-SiiGKma4EBeX5ceNw/s320/100+scan0001.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>Pack 2:</u></strong></div>
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#38 J.D. Martinez Astros</div>
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#42 Tommy Milone Athletics</div>
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#106 Mike Leake Reds</div>
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#138 2012 World Series game 3</div>
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#194 Mike Moustakas Royals</div>
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#262 2013 Cardinal Rookie Stars</div>
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#276 Nick Swisher Indians</div>
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#314 Shane Victorino Red Sox</div>
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#343 Daniel Nava Red Sox</div>
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<strong><u>Pack 3:</u></strong></div>
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#13 Adam LaRoche Nationals</div>
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#22 Andrelton Simmons Braves</div>
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#60 Will Middlebrooks Red Sox</div>
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#78 Mike Napoli Rangers</div>
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#214 Jean Segura Brewers</div>
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#216 Brandon Beachy Braves</div>
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#239 Joel Hanrahan Red Sox</div>
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#319 Jason Isringhausen Angels</div>
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#450 Matt Kemp Dodgers </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqbekNpNmR7AlLXdcCa5QViTuNk-8dmSpOJax0rhWKrWiH2QvPhDoKCIJ547hFSiPEaoNVNq5_VvYlTuvYRcUQ0QQ3Az5pLPsZhV1azg46w7ZR88hlYqFjYXRM3sW807sLeT9gdjI1OEL/s1600/100+scan0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqbekNpNmR7AlLXdcCa5QViTuNk-8dmSpOJax0rhWKrWiH2QvPhDoKCIJ547hFSiPEaoNVNq5_VvYlTuvYRcUQ0QQ3Az5pLPsZhV1azg46w7ZR88hlYqFjYXRM3sW807sLeT9gdjI1OEL/s320/100+scan0002.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>Pack 4:</u></strong></div>
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#91 Chris Nelson Rockies</div>
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#201 Orioles Rookie Stars</div>
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#330 Johnny Cueto Reds</div>
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#340 Paul Konerko White Sox</div>
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#355 Chris Tillman Orioles</div>
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#401 Alex Presley Pirates</div>
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#419 Joe Saunders Orioles</div>
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#423 Giants Tops in NL</div>
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#MM-FH Felix Hernandez Mariners</div>
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<strong><u>Pack 5:</u></strong></div>
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#94 Reds Rookie Stars</div>
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#100 Robinson Cano Yankees</div>
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#204 Gregor Blanco Giants</div>
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#244 Jon Jay Cardinals</div>
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#249 Josh Thole Blue Jays</div>
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#359 Wilton Lopez Rockies</div>
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#402 Will Venable Padres</div>
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#406 Jaime Garcia Cardinals</div>
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#482 Nelson Cruz Rangers </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0ttPmqnZ29VQjV9jU-46LBl4t22em0v0LrMtija7dmW1-6RaUpSRzgQEgjgfdz29Tj1BVPQ5MltbP7N4u2_lxEwKQ3nbd3Mwsm_S9JcBiWf4SIZ79trivlg34nejTZOxcGF7W2pIoCnU/s1600/100+scan0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0ttPmqnZ29VQjV9jU-46LBl4t22em0v0LrMtija7dmW1-6RaUpSRzgQEgjgfdz29Tj1BVPQ5MltbP7N4u2_lxEwKQ3nbd3Mwsm_S9JcBiWf4SIZ79trivlg34nejTZOxcGF7W2pIoCnU/s320/100+scan0003.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>Pack 6:</u></strong></div>
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#87 Bruce Bochy Giants Mng</div>
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#95 B.J.Upton Giants</div>
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#176 Ervin Santana Royals</div>
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#203 Alcides Escobar Royals</div>
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#216 Jason Kipnis Indians</div>
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#298 Buck Showalter Orioles Mng</div>
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#366 Ryan Dempster Red Sox</div>
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#391 Andy Pettitte Yankees</div>
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#NAP-FH Felix Hernandez Mariners</div>
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<strong><u>Pack 7:</u></strong></div>
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#3 NL Pitching Leaders</div>
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#187 Tyler Clippard Nationals</div>
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#223 James Loney Bay Rays</div>
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#266 Lucas Duda Mets</div>
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#273 Matt Moore Bay Rays</div>
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#362 Ezequiel Carrera Indians </div>
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#364 Russell Martin Pirates</div>
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#383 Mike Scioscia Angles Mng</div>
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#HC66 Roy Halladay Phillies <em>964/999</em> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGNJorkIIqIvdU5vyQBEtvKcp7MlBKgrV0MYQECa-6moPlOKQpCzmjaMzqxjyMJxLqUXdPyClQk2esCeds6SmWoG9JH_OTVgO8Y_5gwu0ds7DIPEnMtBp4nkQNYPUBj6skic1qfsjmL8l/s1600/100+scan0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGNJorkIIqIvdU5vyQBEtvKcp7MlBKgrV0MYQECa-6moPlOKQpCzmjaMzqxjyMJxLqUXdPyClQk2esCeds6SmWoG9JH_OTVgO8Y_5gwu0ds7DIPEnMtBp4nkQNYPUBj6skic1qfsjmL8l/s320/100+scan0004.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>Pack 8:</u></strong></div>
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#56 Ross Detwiler Nationals</div>
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#160 David Freese Cardinals</div>
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#252 Yonder Alonso Padres</div>
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#264 Vernon Wells Angels</div>
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#272 Matt Joyce Bay Rays</div>
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#347 Carlos Marmol Cubs</div>
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#392 Mike Baxter Mets</div>
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#397 Clint Barmes Pirates</div>
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#440 Jered Weaver Angles</div>
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Not as impressive as the last blaster, although the Heritage Chrome is a lovely card. Maybe I was incorrect about an insert or short print per pack. I swear I heard it somewhere.</div>
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No variations, errors or Venezuelan backs present in this blaster. </div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-12759224505538201882013-04-29T20:58:00.000+01:002013-04-29T20:58:34.824+01:00Topps Attax Doctor Who <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLUN2gOQthAS-eQ6XvxHSrAF4T6HO-eRLX2VadziJdD5CecBHo7sUFokxC50Rhc7AeUpHXEINEB3Q_tIJYxjPOBWE3H86QuEuSCih44SQjVZSoXuGUaFavvcgA784Ke_srZnP6G_Mswqt/s1600/100+scan0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLUN2gOQthAS-eQ6XvxHSrAF4T6HO-eRLX2VadziJdD5CecBHo7sUFokxC50Rhc7AeUpHXEINEB3Q_tIJYxjPOBWE3H86QuEuSCih44SQjVZSoXuGUaFavvcgA784Ke_srZnP6G_Mswqt/s320/100+scan0023.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
Yes you heard correctly. Topps has finally produced a Doctor Who set of collectable cards. It may be in 'Attax' form but it is still The Doctor. Pity Topps couldn't produce some dalek relic or Rose Tyler DNA cards, those might be interesting to collect. The Topps Alien Attax coincides with the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who television show.<br />
If your a fan of The Doctor, you would have already realised that this year is a special year in the Doctor Who calendar. On the 23rd of November 1963 the first Doctor Who episode <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/An_Unearthly_Child" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">'The Unearthly Child'</span></a> was broadcast, although eclipsed by other historic events, the show pulled in a decent audience.<br />
In 1973, on the tenth anniversary of the show, a series of episodes called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Three_Doctors_(Doctor_Who)" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">'The Three Doctors</span></a><span style="color: #cc0000;">'</span> was made. <br />
In 1983, on the twentieth anniversary, a special called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Five_Doctors" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">'The Five Doctors</span></a><span style="color: #cc0000;">'</span> was made. <br />
In 1993, although Doctor Who series had been on temporary leave since 1989, a Children in Need special called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dimensions_in_Time" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">'Dimensions in Time'</span></a> was broadcast. <br />
Unfortunately in 2003, the Doctor was still off the air, so to speak, but roll on 2013 The Doctor has never been more popular, which means there is a flood of Doctor Who celebratory merchandise available - Royal Mail stamps (which are pretty cool even for a non stamp collector), cups, mugs T-shirts, miniature TARDISes, (is there a plural for TARDIS?), hats, figures, you name it.<br />
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The Alien Attax set contains 240 cards to collect which includes 16 rainbow foil cards and 32 mirror foil cards. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36U7UB0UEq-naB5rZ1TKviz9G0azFt1Ag1BAcoCAET0c13TCTCpCaFpa8D1TNxVrTGGMj7qEgtjRIwYH-fr3W57oPwXtOrLwqRE-d8JD-jveFXBx7-fYdLodIDICuw3mroCKCfh1hOd0G/s1600/100+scan0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36U7UB0UEq-naB5rZ1TKviz9G0azFt1Ag1BAcoCAET0c13TCTCpCaFpa8D1TNxVrTGGMj7qEgtjRIwYH-fr3W57oPwXtOrLwqRE-d8JD-jveFXBx7-fYdLodIDICuw3mroCKCfh1hOd0G/s320/100+scan0020.jpg" width="201" /></a></div>
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The collector pack comes with the collection folder, checklist, battle mat and a 'special' 3D Matt Smith card. </div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL-EZsUbx9Zq2-FVQmBKCrHyxzn3vvEBDczRbXGCeDwZAXuNWE5dJi1UZOkYWjszsrH3SiQazC8MDbLtJciFqz3ith8dx2MfEq5vEzdWSAFY-CynA5l7bwLnd0eP6R_7jEOqo4h6QmjWxm/s320/100+scan0014.jpg" width="223" /></div>
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The rest of the 240 cards are divided into groups of Aliens, Humans, Humanoids, Doctors, Companions, Robots, etc. Thankfully the set includes the very lovely new assistant Clara/Oswin Oswald played by Jenna-Louise Coleman.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQAfMGQmgjAiM5Qr6iI7OCpA6cqL7ohKzrT0924fP504ZitrwBFsJ9VociDoNnyduObvb36Y5jqqKTq6W6gDdBL89fSqbGlmr7zhIXtSCXqu0x3rNecXGcWlKFh61jUrSu5w9gHv8vtXl/s1600/100+scan0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQAfMGQmgjAiM5Qr6iI7OCpA6cqL7ohKzrT0924fP504ZitrwBFsJ9VociDoNnyduObvb36Y5jqqKTq6W6gDdBL89fSqbGlmr7zhIXtSCXqu0x3rNecXGcWlKFh61jUrSu5w9gHv8vtXl/s320/100+scan0015.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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There has never been a shortage of Aliens in the Doctors past, whether they were the creepy sort to keep you up in the night such as; Snowman, Weeping Angels or gas-masked children,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vVDpkK7UmlhzixxK6TGBuhP-BsmInp2krNJ_ALOhmKz0nN_lk-vGlKIycewWfMz4oa1dMYraiEW-G8u7HMXQeBPupDHtltBmY81HdA9RQzbNaWRvV4kZe9ky6mX_NdPeBjM83wWUc21e/s1600/100+scan0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vVDpkK7UmlhzixxK6TGBuhP-BsmInp2krNJ_ALOhmKz0nN_lk-vGlKIycewWfMz4oa1dMYraiEW-G8u7HMXQeBPupDHtltBmY81HdA9RQzbNaWRvV4kZe9ky6mX_NdPeBjM83wWUc21e/s320/100+scan0016.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
Or just downright weird like the Face of Boe, The Ood or Sulirians<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDZUG6fNcwWeWGE9m-TzR7zEtBC9Or-ievkmlzJD8VITvFNNgwxQ8_XgRAAiiuX10YGkZ8lzPFTNE9WAQeGadVwooRXVdW9kqVok1etxb4kgdI282FhTVT7XBwKI89uhvowFdodoDykd4/s1600/100+scan0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDZUG6fNcwWeWGE9m-TzR7zEtBC9Or-ievkmlzJD8VITvFNNgwxQ8_XgRAAiiuX10YGkZ8lzPFTNE9WAQeGadVwooRXVdW9kqVok1etxb4kgdI282FhTVT7XBwKI89uhvowFdodoDykd4/s320/100+scan0017.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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Although there were some that would barely past the Alien screening process. Really- an alien made from Liquorice Allsorts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbHnFWNk0_qgMSMK5J9a5EWiTnoUS_OzyQlNnPqRbO9cvBbqTUrs2pB6ImQOLqhXT2w_bkMmdjUSaDul5ZDK-oFZR3TcK4WFDZ6WxKGuVbATqGQ_7o2VvdfEyF8VBmx11Joc9vrS5NHBT/s1600/100+scan0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbHnFWNk0_qgMSMK5J9a5EWiTnoUS_OzyQlNnPqRbO9cvBbqTUrs2pB6ImQOLqhXT2w_bkMmdjUSaDul5ZDK-oFZR3TcK4WFDZ6WxKGuVbATqGQ_7o2VvdfEyF8VBmx11Joc9vrS5NHBT/s320/100+scan0018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsNEYkrfHKaof_BU9cmml3aMrtXoSjHlpJBCQBpyFhVHx412E0PlsSw8pCWB_hif7KSvyIF5gB30-CXo2JXrRgR7tnJJC2eUF5LgCF0LC5r3-ICCHFGC175msk0-P5wMr2hKMTabLEkGS/s1600/100+scan0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsNEYkrfHKaof_BU9cmml3aMrtXoSjHlpJBCQBpyFhVHx412E0PlsSw8pCWB_hif7KSvyIF5gB30-CXo2JXrRgR7tnJJC2eUF5LgCF0LC5r3-ICCHFGC175msk0-P5wMr2hKMTabLEkGS/s320/100+scan0019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am pretty close to completing this set, so if you want to fill any empty spaces, just contact me. </div>
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</div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-54281880000724952772013-04-01T22:58:00.001+01:002013-04-01T22:58:43.171+01:00Finally some 2013 Topps Heritage.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtDa3AklaR2Xvjuqmz6unAlrii6mplTU5UuCw53BYMUtIl7WDlAHR1C_-tZ0MgojSBQBF3veyL1uBXY-7uCgW-QatSHDQvV9d-AlZVpuepud465Ng01iQAZnatuULJiCwHA8wzRV_46tr/s1600/March+2013+011+(1024x646).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtDa3AklaR2Xvjuqmz6unAlrii6mplTU5UuCw53BYMUtIl7WDlAHR1C_-tZ0MgojSBQBF3veyL1uBXY-7uCgW-QatSHDQvV9d-AlZVpuepud465Ng01iQAZnatuULJiCwHA8wzRV_46tr/s320/March+2013+011+(1024x646).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">But by the looks of things it only just made it. This package arrived squashed and soaked through. We have had some heavy rain (and snow) recently, however this package was not treated with tender loving care you might expect from the UK and/or US postal systems.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The inside of the package actually felt wet and the plastic wrapping damp. The blaster of 2013 Topps Heritage, although a little dented, looked fine. The cards within the blaster - undamaged and bloody brilliant.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqQ0lT6DoeMLYbR6KBH5TOUT7YOorj6XbhuqNIycXtx_4MW2jVcZ0yAMgnb_6eONIrbPWQG2SVg0IGkc82cPqkHaLsx32_Z1skDktoZxy28muStPli7nWW9okxxWX7fMZAZt0gGLmNQ5m/s1600/March+2013+012+(1024x679).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqQ0lT6DoeMLYbR6KBH5TOUT7YOorj6XbhuqNIycXtx_4MW2jVcZ0yAMgnb_6eONIrbPWQG2SVg0IGkc82cPqkHaLsx32_Z1skDktoZxy28muStPli7nWW9okxxWX7fMZAZt0gGLmNQ5m/s320/March+2013+012+(1024x679).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I may have mentioned once or twice that 2013 Topps Heritage was h</span><span style="font-family: Georgia;">ot on my list for set collection. In preparation for this monumental 425 card base set, I tried to slim the other wants lists down a tad, (in particular completing a few sets), with a modicum of success-thanks largely to COMC.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">But in doing so I realised that there a number of inserts that have used stealth to worm their way into my collecting habits, so rather than reducing the complete set wants list, I probably doubled it. Card collecting tends to do that to you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">This blaster was all that I could get my hands on, at the present time. A little demoralising when I saw that a fellow UK collector purchased a box of <a href="http://thewaxfantastic.wordpress.com/2013/03/20/review-2012-panini-national-treasures/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">2012 Panini National Treasures</span></a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">The blaster itself was opened quickly and the move to a complete set has now started in earnest,(or Westgate).</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGwkX3i2t4rO8zr8442Q2GXOTkyTH3z_WdmzLbYaiHBh5-fMj465ZbKQ_fPR9_AC_sTW1A62Tp-iD_18xYbqg3qnE7B8YrVKocx3BaUJ78CEW9ZbRsp5Y7WSa5Yo8qBVf1KJyOT2eF4SQ/s1600/100+scan0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGwkX3i2t4rO8zr8442Q2GXOTkyTH3z_WdmzLbYaiHBh5-fMj465ZbKQ_fPR9_AC_sTW1A62Tp-iD_18xYbqg3qnE7B8YrVKocx3BaUJ78CEW9ZbRsp5Y7WSa5Yo8qBVf1KJyOT2eF4SQ/s320/100+scan0002.jpg" width="201" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There are eight packs of cards within the blaster. There are nine cards per pack.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><u>Pack 1:</u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#18 Cliff Lee Phillies</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#38 J.D.Martinez Astros</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#187 Tyler Clippard Nationals</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#238 Joe Nathan Rangers</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#246 Josh Hamilton Angels</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#297 Jordan Lyles Astros</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#314 Shane Victorino Red Sox</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#359 Wilton Lopez Rockies</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#445 Lucas Harrell Astros</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKK-jA76y_xgmdmailDM7v0aBOVlFnZyw9oaeyD4pb5uiy-8sntMGr757GOdibUc47zEMY_w0hfLI_3Y_oOXLB4sJ4WYlKlUEHLpr2TPONJI7qjIS54QYcoRydQf421WIxKcUZ9tpQ4Wv/s1600/100+scan0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKK-jA76y_xgmdmailDM7v0aBOVlFnZyw9oaeyD4pb5uiy-8sntMGr757GOdibUc47zEMY_w0hfLI_3Y_oOXLB4sJ4WYlKlUEHLpr2TPONJI7qjIS54QYcoRydQf421WIxKcUZ9tpQ4Wv/s320/100+scan0003.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><u>Pack 2:</u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#45 Brandon Phillips Reds</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#91 Chris Nelson Rockies</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#185 Ian Kennedy D-backs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#241 Geovany Soto Rangers</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#354 Sean Marshall Reds</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#406 Jaime Garcia Cardinals</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#419 Joe Saunders Orioles</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#CCR-SC Stralin Castro Cubs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBXOej1Al209Da0OYfUeTDev7u3kCg2_8X8aPQa13mkyQqnXYbWM68_5J9nRu3mtCgvRnmIUTrX8OfNFE-XgIASNsvrHM_1N9NQr7t3Epz9JpU88tfxUwYCZg2GYNMslbnPHho81tpoG3/s1600/100+scan0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBXOej1Al209Da0OYfUeTDev7u3kCg2_8X8aPQa13mkyQqnXYbWM68_5J9nRu3mtCgvRnmIUTrX8OfNFE-XgIASNsvrHM_1N9NQr7t3Epz9JpU88tfxUwYCZg2GYNMslbnPHho81tpoG3/s320/100+scan0004.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><u>Pack 3:</u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#5 Strikeout Leaders</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#102 Kirk Gibson Mng D-backs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#196 Chris Carter Athletics</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#219 Young Aces</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#274 Justin Morneau Twins</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#360 Mark Teixeira Yankees</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#402 Will Venable Padres</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#416 Paul Maholm Braves</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#449 Jered Weaver Angels</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKl_9hyphenhyphen82Yi422US_3tiNyzQJyNxy9YBnPUtQCuhRykEyHDTD9JUx_sbmbDKuSe9hAIVObai_OzzdvjwrnhAE1TJNlrkpUoOkDKSOmdf98Nhcet7K8hsHF8EF4W_RHBFU1fjjPgP7vyzw7/s1600/100+scan0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKl_9hyphenhyphen82Yi422US_3tiNyzQJyNxy9YBnPUtQCuhRykEyHDTD9JUx_sbmbDKuSe9hAIVObai_OzzdvjwrnhAE1TJNlrkpUoOkDKSOmdf98Nhcet7K8hsHF8EF4W_RHBFU1fjjPgP7vyzw7/s320/100+scan0005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><u>Pack 4:</u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#24 Anibal Sanchez Tigers</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#32 C.J.Wilson Angels</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#72 Chase Utley Phillies</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#92 Chris Young Athletics <em>Venezuelan</em></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#194 Mike Moustakas Royals</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#266 Lucas Duda Mets</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#327 Heath Bell D-backs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#362 Ezequiel Carrera Indians</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#384 Ryan Doumit Twins</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsb-dW3xnz_SAYH8-gCUmQmlfYStnzGrbv0Mm3JT3kLiD9OYzt20fhqJXDDu0iqw9GyZb9Ko7L56aC2F2x52iA0c7C80kDOIxLDxgy9KmrlvtXBitkuI2O5zcxyHRgQ2vCrWmIxRbC_1h/s1600/100+scan0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsb-dW3xnz_SAYH8-gCUmQmlfYStnzGrbv0Mm3JT3kLiD9OYzt20fhqJXDDu0iqw9GyZb9Ko7L56aC2F2x52iA0c7C80kDOIxLDxgy9KmrlvtXBitkuI2O5zcxyHRgQ2vCrWmIxRbC_1h/s320/100+scan0006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><u>Pack 5:</u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#22 Andrelton Simmons Braves</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#197 Mark Buehrle Blue Jays</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#222 J.P Arencibia Blue Jays</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#239 Joel Hanrahan Red Sox</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#386 Jared Burton Twins</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#396 Jeff Karstens Pirates</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#401 Alex Presley Pirates</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#423 Tops in National League</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#NF-TB The Beatles</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnr028y2sFg5KJ-p_w8BSWZ-TkySJ2ctB5BXh5klB9LouTIOPkokl_i-jnlIbxEz8pthpKD5meIjvrDsnAiozgmvqLydkSvVAYdKf1pGtYT4HtKETfPUX9WzEjS__o-HHt8Ci9kY2BKoNp/s1600/100+scan0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnr028y2sFg5KJ-p_w8BSWZ-TkySJ2ctB5BXh5klB9LouTIOPkokl_i-jnlIbxEz8pthpKD5meIjvrDsnAiozgmvqLydkSvVAYdKf1pGtYT4HtKETfPUX9WzEjS__o-HHt8Ci9kY2BKoNp/s320/100+scan0007.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><u>Pack 6:</u></strong></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#103 Gordon Beckham White Sox</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#166 Dustin Ackley Mariners</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#229 Jed Lowrie Astros</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#265 Lorenzo Cain Royals</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#353 Chris Heisey Reds</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#378 Nyjer Morgan Brewers</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#394 Brandon Inge Athletics</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#425 Joey Votto Reds</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#NAP-YC Yoenis Cespedes Athletics</span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBoGSv_6r24oHgrFU7mp-X7cu7SKTOuD058h97jPv8X9HUmgYTiebwQWfx3ZWEMmK8ZGebsHtdSSLPM_tnToptuSesKk2FT1njMW3euNWhGh6h2TaFsQw-cu6B1Sk8BdzN3MsBibvgK3a1/s1600/100+scan0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBoGSv_6r24oHgrFU7mp-X7cu7SKTOuD058h97jPv8X9HUmgYTiebwQWfx3ZWEMmK8ZGebsHtdSSLPM_tnToptuSesKk2FT1njMW3euNWhGh6h2TaFsQw-cu6B1Sk8BdzN3MsBibvgK3a1/s320/100+scan0008.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><u>Pack 7:</u></strong></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#82 Pablo Sandoval Giants</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#94 2013 Rookie Stars</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#180 Carl Crawford Dodgers</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#182 Felix Doubront Red Sox</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#198 Gavin Floyd White Sox</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#204 Gregor Blanco Giants</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#275 Kevin Youkilis Yankees</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#367 Jeremy Guthrie Royals</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#MMBH Bryce Harper Nationals</span></div>
<div align="center">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><u>Pack 8:</u></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> #40 Carlos Beltran Cardinals</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#56 Ross Detwiler Nationals</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#78 Mike Napoli Rangers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#106 Mike Leake Reds</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#193 Garrett Jones Pirates</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#223 James Loney Bay Rays</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#393 Pat Neshek Athletics</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#410 John Lackey Red Sox</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">#488 Wilin Rosario Rockies</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjatgd5yAKN96vcTSZkh5BpGR3y6kEe1pR_vLY0TcQX8H0SLnjzTmvd280GV5nI_65Pthk3zlDGbeamU2FuY0FRe66JNZmjgRquwRS_iEJzy9W6FqR00D_YrOY6CbVYLiiN4hpAW6vvvpL3/s1600/100+scan0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjatgd5yAKN96vcTSZkh5BpGR3y6kEe1pR_vLY0TcQX8H0SLnjzTmvd280GV5nI_65Pthk3zlDGbeamU2FuY0FRe66JNZmjgRquwRS_iEJzy9W6FqR00D_YrOY6CbVYLiiN4hpAW6vvvpL3/s320/100+scan0010.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Another Cubbies relic, the last time I pulled a relic it was Cubs as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">So the journey to complete the base set has started, fortunately I was able to bite a large chunk of 2013 Heritage off with a recent purchase from e-bayUK. Follow my progress </span><a href="http://pursuitofredsox.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2013-topps-heritage-baseball.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">here</span></a><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">.</span>jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-37397623243918689212013-03-07T21:57:00.000+00:002013-03-09T22:47:23.481+00:002013 baseball World Classic Update Pool B<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In Taichung, Taiwan the pool was much closer. there was not overall convincing winner as there was in Pool A.The only disappointment was Australia's failure to win any match.<br />
The three other clubs hypothetically tied for first- each winning 2 games and losing 1.The eventual winner and pool team to go through was Chinese Taipei, who won the Asian qualifying round in style, back in November 2012. During the qualifying campaign they didn't allow a run, winning all games: 10-0, 16-0 and 9-0.<br />
Chinese Taipei's wins over Australia and the highly favoured Dutch put them on course for another three straight wins.<br />
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The second team through to the second round was the impressive 'Kingdom of the Netherlands' or Holland as we say in Europe. Possibly the best of the European teams in the competition. Although they beat South Korea convincingly in the first game, they let a 3-1 lead slip to Chinese Taipei. Their final game against Australia, they didn't look back after securing a 4-0 lead. They should do well in the rest of the competition.</div>
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The South Koreans must feel unlucky. Winning as many games as Holland and Chinese Taipei but still not getting through to the next round. Losing without scoring against Holland (5-0) was eventually their downfall. </div>
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The biggest disappointment, for me, was the Australian team, who only scored 2 runs in their three tournament matches. This is the same nation who set the record for most hits (22) in a past Classic, when they beat Mexico 17-7 in 2009. Despite have a professional league and many players in the MLB, they didn't deliver at all this year and will need to go through qualification for the next Classic. Three games, 3 losses.</div>
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jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-63085520522383174992013-03-06T13:28:00.000+00:002013-03-09T22:51:25.626+00:002013 World Baseball Classic update Pool ASo a quick update of the 2013 World baseball Classic- Pool A and Pool B has been decided.<br />
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In Fukuoka, Japan, the Cubans were relatively comfortable winners of Pool A, winning all three games and proceed to the next round. The Cubans made mincemeat of the Chinese in an almost completely empty Fukuoka Stadium, which doesn't say a lot for the future of the Classic.<br />
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Japan also move to the second round having lost only to Cuba, although their wins were less than comfortable.<br />
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The third team in the group China, are a growing nation in the sport. Although convincingly defeated by Cubans, they went on to beat the Brazilians.</div>
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Unfortunately for Brazil, who had advanced through last years qualifiers and were playing in their first Classic, the competition was tough and they lost every game (if only by a few runs.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqEk2GHq4l-0yLZC1asKAUxlTFBegcWgrkgcJYAhTauoKhwuBCj_swIj5_tjsA3OnEEYcP6slFmwuYrip-DEJdhBSESVJsd2CsjroaXo9ZW7RvhQP2qdiH4jIB6uMx63v-QGBB5uIT75t/s1600/Barry+Larkin+Kimball+Champions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqEk2GHq4l-0yLZC1asKAUxlTFBegcWgrkgcJYAhTauoKhwuBCj_swIj5_tjsA3OnEEYcP6slFmwuYrip-DEJdhBSESVJsd2CsjroaXo9ZW7RvhQP2qdiH4jIB6uMx63v-QGBB5uIT75t/s320/Barry+Larkin+Kimball+Champions.jpg" width="176" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPrqbkiTQ-ABV771yGLf9-acUOyfhildr2kIuxDuqTMTuEIzw1pdpO7gbEceXUtobTQ6RnfWn7c-dpsvHGXGLPbKGZVuZG7qZli1NJ1YeDqZPnoUHotWXQ2oL9pv7bIGOxKoLGLDWddHvf/s1600/brazilian-soccer-fan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPrqbkiTQ-ABV771yGLf9-acUOyfhildr2kIuxDuqTMTuEIzw1pdpO7gbEceXUtobTQ6RnfWn7c-dpsvHGXGLPbKGZVuZG7qZli1NJ1YeDqZPnoUHotWXQ2oL9pv7bIGOxKoLGLDWddHvf/s320/brazilian-soccer-fan.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
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(I know its not a Brazilian player- do you really care?)</div>
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jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-2068160240572400472013-03-01T20:47:00.000+00:002013-03-08T20:53:10.728+00:002013 Baseball World Classic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUgOGFPdA20tscsIYF4y95rG94uqhyphenhyphenp98tkTv7Gw45kAHFLPFwP4B_Yew2Jj4zYmO022taG88XyBhPGw2g6cxwtGM7TMeUv4kxdC5RGjdw6cOk8TWFVpHuAruJw_hSVzjDYmNmZyUN4tQ/s1600/world+classic+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUgOGFPdA20tscsIYF4y95rG94uqhyphenhyphenp98tkTv7Gw45kAHFLPFwP4B_Yew2Jj4zYmO022taG88XyBhPGw2g6cxwtGM7TMeUv4kxdC5RGjdw6cOk8TWFVpHuAruJw_hSVzjDYmNmZyUN4tQ/s1600/world+classic+2.jpg" /></a></div>
Here in the UK there has been barely a ripple of interest in this baseball competition,even in the preliminary rounds where the United Kingdom featured. <br />
Although their participation was short lived, the UK played three games in the qualifying rounds against: Canada, Czech Republic and Germany. These games took place back in September in the premier European baseball stadium in Regensburg, Germany called the Armin-Wolf Baseball Arena. It is also the largest stadium specifically for baseball in Germany, pretty impressive it is too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi5mDuJB5UOcpOjr-YAGE881LmWIeR-DwSySMja1U3KmdaQOExgc8M2byqKCVeiOlY8SZd-BwPyih7BEjHKm4_2ljwiAd2J3vsb6b_UExT81-l2rFkPnB4oIQfiA8jARi3wn72gBlaV8FJ/s1600/venue_pic_armin-wolf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi5mDuJB5UOcpOjr-YAGE881LmWIeR-DwSySMja1U3KmdaQOExgc8M2byqKCVeiOlY8SZd-BwPyih7BEjHKm4_2ljwiAd2J3vsb6b_UExT81-l2rFkPnB4oIQfiA8jARi3wn72gBlaV8FJ/s400/venue_pic_armin-wolf.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The United Kingdom team were comfortably defeated by both Canada 11-1 and Germany 16-1, but overcame the Czechs in a hard fought game, 12-5. Canada made light work of the Germans 11-1 to advance to the World Classic Pool stage.<br />
In another of the qualifying rounds in Florida, saw more European teams: Spain, France and Israel (well they participate in the Euros in football) battle South Africa for another of the empty pool stage places. The plucky Spaniards overcame Israel 9-7 to advance. <br />
Brazil advanced from the South American qualifier in the Rod Carew Stadium in Panama City beating Colombia, Nicaragua and Panama.<br />
Chinese Taipei advanced from the Asian qualifier beating baseball giants the Philippines, Thailand and New Zealand in Xinzhuang Stadium, Taiwan.<br />
All these qualifiers took place late last year (September and November) in preparation for the World Classic in March 2013.<br />
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There are four pools of four teams in the World Baseball Classic, taking place in different parts of the World. There are possibly only a few countries in the world that have enough baseball stadiums to host the classic in a similar fashion to football, cricket and rugby, which take place usually in one country). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-3GeYEZ75A1ZrM5YUUVrIjICRyMiZa3O7tS-YQYQYImdum3iDtGkyHXz3xqMb4vUTuY53j9_oQ-WyOc_5KhNwdfRi5lNdfLHk_aIZvp-PuzrUDUI3rfHXxNEQZ8QnqPdamy33nWCa_V1/s1600/venue_poolA.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-3GeYEZ75A1ZrM5YUUVrIjICRyMiZa3O7tS-YQYQYImdum3iDtGkyHXz3xqMb4vUTuY53j9_oQ-WyOc_5KhNwdfRi5lNdfLHk_aIZvp-PuzrUDUI3rfHXxNEQZ8QnqPdamy33nWCa_V1/s200/venue_poolA.gif" width="200" /></a><strong>Pool A</strong> <br />
Japan, China, Cuba and Brazil <br />
Games are played in Fukuoka, Japan in the Fukuoka Yahoo! Japan Dome.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDW0mYs4toXg2QY532uvrXzyyZzWbZ0EvmOPAwnE478giGS7KX2Reu1E2w3vZKQhk8AcVhRHtcavYTbiDsPv7yIh6JHii_omLDVhNfQ-89ahShFrj1XxYcmEXFxOll8NZzBeLwafgbjb7/s1600/venue_poolB.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDW0mYs4toXg2QY532uvrXzyyZzWbZ0EvmOPAwnE478giGS7KX2Reu1E2w3vZKQhk8AcVhRHtcavYTbiDsPv7yIh6JHii_omLDVhNfQ-89ahShFrj1XxYcmEXFxOll8NZzBeLwafgbjb7/s200/venue_poolB.gif" width="200" /></a><br />
<strong>Pool B</strong> <br />
South Korea, Holland, Australia and Chinese Taipei <br />
Games are played in Taichung, Taiwan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eWfvb_q-2pRvg7fRpzSl85YwJEA1p6nkGuLcJo22Xqdo8dZGmi8vKP98LXNi5c6ieHt2wTM-MEGHOaPewRi6XpmYCeMtwHyMmLGRvr14C8YHxhp2Bvz5R9qBOz1vogs3YYveWpLrn1_k/s1600/venue_poolC.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eWfvb_q-2pRvg7fRpzSl85YwJEA1p6nkGuLcJo22Xqdo8dZGmi8vKP98LXNi5c6ieHt2wTM-MEGHOaPewRi6XpmYCeMtwHyMmLGRvr14C8YHxhp2Bvz5R9qBOz1vogs3YYveWpLrn1_k/s200/venue_poolC.gif" width="200" /></a><br />
<strong>Pool C</strong> <br />
Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and Brazil <br />
Games are played in San Juan, Puerto Rico at the <br />
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Hiram Bithorn Stadium</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ozy6KWvk__tyFeGy0w6FUXhIsynahWXM5BW0EaI-OsYsLAGEnVSOHeeeZRXpyuTNa2M6i86FZ6p_yhyXr3Zvbt-tgZRTEFGj1aYHGCmudLLXYPg31ZfonIskjod40Kr68gkiBO3uJ7tE/s1600/venue_poolD.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ozy6KWvk__tyFeGy0w6FUXhIsynahWXM5BW0EaI-OsYsLAGEnVSOHeeeZRXpyuTNa2M6i86FZ6p_yhyXr3Zvbt-tgZRTEFGj1aYHGCmudLLXYPg31ZfonIskjod40Kr68gkiBO3uJ7tE/s200/venue_poolD.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
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<strong>Pool D</strong> </div>
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USA, Mexico, Italy and Canada </div>
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Games played in Phoenix, Arizona.</div>
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Is there any interest in these ganes at all?</div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-13024812948019411332013-02-06T21:18:00.000+00:002013-02-06T21:18:23.148+00:002012 Goodwin Champions Blaster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9N7m4p0CqpwoKmKc6YYypuU1kArrK3WgkIMd0ag_XzuDkT_2hXAdkiKvWNc7EMSTTohJuqsbD_6WB-43z4AcLOqi0GyRd26OrRn-grNUkgjTHUjZMS8tWfF9rbx9Rdv7wrDfpKgnXv0g/s1600/100+scan0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9N7m4p0CqpwoKmKc6YYypuU1kArrK3WgkIMd0ag_XzuDkT_2hXAdkiKvWNc7EMSTTohJuqsbD_6WB-43z4AcLOqi0GyRd26OrRn-grNUkgjTHUjZMS8tWfF9rbx9Rdv7wrDfpKgnXv0g/s400/100+scan0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">When </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">the Upper Deck version of Goodwin Champions first appeared in 2009 with the inclusion of </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">butterflies and insects, bits of coal from the Titanic and thoroughbred horse hair. It looked like a pretty exciting product. The base cards looked nice too, so I decided to collect the whole set. Who knows I might even snag a horse DNA card and create my own horse...in the future.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I looked forward to 2010, but had to wait until 2011 for the next helping. Some unique cards again became accessible. Fancy a piece of Abe Lincoln's desk, a piece of White House wood (no pun intended), Nelson's Battle Flag or even some of Edward the 8th's snot? </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Well 2011 Goodwin Champions made it possible, but you would have to be extremely lucky with stated odds of 1 in 54,000 packs for a piece of desk, but only 1 in 4,000 for a piece of Eddy's hanky. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">By the time 2012 Goodwin Champions, I had moved on and had pretty much lost interest in these rare relics. Even the tempting possibility of landing a space rock or collecting the card of a stellar sportsman like Kasey Keller didn't override my desire to pursue other cards.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">However that doesn't mean I will turn away a free gift. </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1SV-mkbv33T2ajQvOayNSJLWAzJQ0sy_BH8ewRP1m55HnG21i4LHM1Hns_pGLTnYzVljHdGPURpv41iMZddx-LDnAKTcocHU2szUz7SEWxnifsk4UWgSdfQTQ7l6e18bmIOAcTQYiB7WK/s1600/100+scan0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1SV-mkbv33T2ajQvOayNSJLWAzJQ0sy_BH8ewRP1m55HnG21i4LHM1Hns_pGLTnYzVljHdGPURpv41iMZddx-LDnAKTcocHU2szUz7SEWxnifsk4UWgSdfQTQ7l6e18bmIOAcTQYiB7WK/s320/100+scan0017.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The 2012 Goodwin Champions blaster contains 12 packs, each pack contains 4 cards. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There are 210 cards in the base set; 150 'regular cards', 40 short prints and 20 super short prints. In </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">other words there are 150 base card and 60 cards you might get.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 1:</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#62 David Robinson basketball</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#84 Don Mattingly baseball</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#127 Dennis Eckersley baseball</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#190 Sherry McGee baseball SP</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5AMHm3YyCd5Ucs78F_q7z0BOlL4IWPSnNlG-qopaLEZbstRsz3nWDeQRvQtbCKxGqy4keBEkj1mAgI-k6z5IWItz5hExTtyM_Mflu2r7ZDD7dAam3i4bLCNjrrBRxcmhQvXnsiJrqGxf/s1600/100+scan0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5AMHm3YyCd5Ucs78F_q7z0BOlL4IWPSnNlG-qopaLEZbstRsz3nWDeQRvQtbCKxGqy4keBEkj1mAgI-k6z5IWItz5hExTtyM_Mflu2r7ZDD7dAam3i4bLCNjrrBRxcmhQvXnsiJrqGxf/s320/100+scan0006.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 2:</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#44 Chris Paul basketball</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#90 Clyde Drexler basketball</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#113 Steve Carlton baseball mini</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#130 Marques Colston football</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcCNi9mCNxEUOSZPsU6Oigq8w-20NZAR4XEo0euaw4VZDtwtROdnwbIG2uIimhpX7ZsW1LkdWG_OP12Dy1CATYGtMXCJHAm1X3baB_4Iqvr2U8pckqQXuIuF1l9z50kR8hz_hqDeGkPF8/s1600/100+scan0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcCNi9mCNxEUOSZPsU6Oigq8w-20NZAR4XEo0euaw4VZDtwtROdnwbIG2uIimhpX7ZsW1LkdWG_OP12Dy1CATYGtMXCJHAm1X3baB_4Iqvr2U8pckqQXuIuF1l9z50kR8hz_hqDeGkPF8/s1600/100+scan0010.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 3:</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#93 Arnold Palmer golf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#105 Mike Bossy hockey</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#120 Kawhi Leonard basketball</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#153 Ross Youngs baseball SP</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv7FsC14-7kLTLIUScDVhMXCY0Fg9n1zKmT06Dt02rg_yM-VCHO4kTlITPrGLkwEleMor-j5AjiwOECOUqkDkb272-9qu98ggF_eKSYl8RLNusypWtpj8e4PXAgqk_-briCsoJkl-SeNuG/s1600/100+scan0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv7FsC14-7kLTLIUScDVhMXCY0Fg9n1zKmT06Dt02rg_yM-VCHO4kTlITPrGLkwEleMor-j5AjiwOECOUqkDkb272-9qu98ggF_eKSYl8RLNusypWtpj8e4PXAgqk_-briCsoJkl-SeNuG/s320/100+scan0003.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 4:</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#27 Mike Schmidt baseball lady luck mini</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#91 Jonathan Huberdeau hockey</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#102 Mike Tyson boxing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#147 Y.E.Yang golf</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gM5VT3Dr17CSXPeNO_9h4o-ZHKXYHNZc6KBdREbJo7I80qkmaaz35OsQnQuw2uZP32zi7L_D7rStr4J5rSWtZ-NPW2s3V-x22c9WmCRSGSTAlxEwfsaYMUHbl6_XusRBhFzjBA7cvCR0/s1600/100+scan0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gM5VT3Dr17CSXPeNO_9h4o-ZHKXYHNZc6KBdREbJo7I80qkmaaz35OsQnQuw2uZP32zi7L_D7rStr4J5rSWtZ-NPW2s3V-x22c9WmCRSGSTAlxEwfsaYMUHbl6_XusRBhFzjBA7cvCR0/s1600/100+scan0005.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 5:</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#52 Robert Griffin III football</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#64 Ned Crotty lacrosse</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#115 Sarah Bernhardt actress</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#207 Walter Travis golf SSP</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EYXLr8chHyMBNGtX1TqaVhTkIIBq1LDyfxDSckD8BvQlwklbhsuXr-HptFhKkFO3jlL9yfPG7KO1n9XEeJPguLFKxPmSBvMB2rwUElVwEclLjz4chP7pYA-mElpYRkJL2XFoPuu6OhLs/s1600/100+scan0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EYXLr8chHyMBNGtX1TqaVhTkIIBq1LDyfxDSckD8BvQlwklbhsuXr-HptFhKkFO3jlL9yfPG7KO1n9XEeJPguLFKxPmSBvMB2rwUElVwEclLjz4chP7pYA-mElpYRkJL2XFoPuu6OhLs/s320/100+scan0002.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 6:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#66 Annika golf</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#108 Nolan Ryan baseball</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#136 Doug Flutie football</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#MM17 USS Balaq </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTNEw6LZhqIQTkqz0D6GUQGGvW2_PnfX1xacxJM0VslFdLMTyVc05viqf_63KYPczvYcRgeWdp0etdkUFIFwga80LMdniVnxVlT-VsTWcATVUwILACLYqxXlzUPR66gQuavxWN3nRKjLr/s1600/100+scan0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTNEw6LZhqIQTkqz0D6GUQGGvW2_PnfX1xacxJM0VslFdLMTyVc05viqf_63KYPczvYcRgeWdp0etdkUFIFwga80LMdniVnxVlT-VsTWcATVUwILACLYqxXlzUPR66gQuavxWN3nRKjLr/s320/100+scan0004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 7:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#36 Eric Lindros hockey</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#56 Bo Jackson football</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#103 Bryan Clay track and field mini</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#124 Brendan Shanahan hockey</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IWf7rzkRKqdA_uY3U7qY82e6yBTaM50RtB9O9CHbnZI2eSqKZvRL3XIermt41KUaLilc2S0e2k3ZzaU3g6qWUpvcBmCu2ntjOtaNkME6gIKRq7z0is2dYfyGvUwivn7p0aeiKU04uGii/s1600/100+scan0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IWf7rzkRKqdA_uY3U7qY82e6yBTaM50RtB9O9CHbnZI2eSqKZvRL3XIermt41KUaLilc2S0e2k3ZzaU3g6qWUpvcBmCu2ntjOtaNkME6gIKRq7z0is2dYfyGvUwivn7p0aeiKU04uGii/s320/100+scan0001.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 8:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#70 Kent Desormeaux jockey</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#80 Randy Couture MMA</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#87 Jim Kelly football</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#144 Adrian Peterson football</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHRhoQZG9OeYeKFGIgVeul8mCsfY-M-gw1XONoIoFZZ2xf2bjrtYstXCvhMj_EUx8J5da1pBI_SxqNDdk15ytdi77sv9eneZC-pbKH2ija8ovn60IRz0esa5DniXq7dNmLOM-f7j1Y4Ny/s1600/100+scan0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHRhoQZG9OeYeKFGIgVeul8mCsfY-M-gw1XONoIoFZZ2xf2bjrtYstXCvhMj_EUx8J5da1pBI_SxqNDdk15ytdi77sv9eneZC-pbKH2ija8ovn60IRz0esa5DniXq7dNmLOM-f7j1Y4Ny/s320/100+scan0009.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 9:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#32 Wayne Gretzky hockey mini</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#46 Zach Johnson golf</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#88 Larry Bird basketball</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#139 Shoeless Joe Jackson baseball</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPpNiRUSUB5OMPddTnjT7GR7zhe1IdQI-5hAxlAZwHU0wRqWf1LqMoKaB0K1zYDF1exH-VOTsRz-tMyHXnFEDJFDN8UFA6MscQaEX34IyVUA0yQoeiIDgUtbKVBdlnhMoKIxv64W068va/s1600/100+scan0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPpNiRUSUB5OMPddTnjT7GR7zhe1IdQI-5hAxlAZwHU0wRqWf1LqMoKaB0K1zYDF1exH-VOTsRz-tMyHXnFEDJFDN8UFA6MscQaEX34IyVUA0yQoeiIDgUtbKVBdlnhMoKIxv64W068va/s320/100+scan0008.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 10:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#17 Grant Hill basketball</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#28 Ron Francis hockey</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#118 LeBron James basketball</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#186 Camille Pissarro artist SP</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XmVbKnS0p004zvSP215ltNd8cluO7dnK25OlGH2kjyT64kAAglstVf4nhBvIUag49ZMQvtcx5dKFyVeGyldiv8Xo7iLMpHOuek_nwAM4ROQIqrkPy6yAmJE_6FHhLMUpVJdkzNXZfI1w/s1600/100+scan0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XmVbKnS0p004zvSP215ltNd8cluO7dnK25OlGH2kjyT64kAAglstVf4nhBvIUag49ZMQvtcx5dKFyVeGyldiv8Xo7iLMpHOuek_nwAM4ROQIqrkPy6yAmJE_6FHhLMUpVJdkzNXZfI1w/s320/100+scan0007.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 11:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#11 Dawn Harper athletics</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#21 Jozy Altidore soccer</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#34 Troy Aikman football</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#163 Pretty Boy Floyd gangster</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzduuMK1mxB6RTdYVSCjPL3yfT7IQrO5WUCWaUa6g7R6K1LuYusDYO4UyHO_i9Gxzy756ykVkDH6oMSJi6FFnnV6Mnkqe2oGrNywAm5IxYduv1sN22t52S4UGQhO6ZsrFOFy6zqaloCPO3/s1600/100+scan0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzduuMK1mxB6RTdYVSCjPL3yfT7IQrO5WUCWaUa6g7R6K1LuYusDYO4UyHO_i9Gxzy756ykVkDH6oMSJi6FFnnV6Mnkqe2oGrNywAm5IxYduv1sN22t52S4UGQhO6ZsrFOFy6zqaloCPO3/s320/100+scan0012.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Pack 12:</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#38 Billy Hamilton baseball</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#94 Adrian Dantley basketball mini</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#103 Bryan Clay athletics</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">#142 Chantal Sutherland jockey</span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUYsxnwWwcmwPuXOd4wnk_omwPEmpkLfYUh22qpdrKOiFVPgW2DoeHv0lY4RTqwUhGMcHidlx1MkDYzrblAJqcVZIVP1bj5GXbFO-wJd-8bI50ghZBKIVEQxEcr0lEZ_0El-F0qtQBJT7/s1600/100+scan0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUYsxnwWwcmwPuXOd4wnk_omwPEmpkLfYUh22qpdrKOiFVPgW2DoeHv0lY4RTqwUhGMcHidlx1MkDYzrblAJqcVZIVP1bj5GXbFO-wJd-8bI50ghZBKIVEQxEcr0lEZ_0El-F0qtQBJT7/s320/100+scan0011.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Being predominately a baseball card collector, I think this sort of multi-sport set is wasted on me. Which is probably why I have only chosen to collect Allen+Ginter/Goodwin sets only once.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Although the black borders are very smart and it is pretty cool that the set contains cards of a gangster and an impressionist, it just isn't for me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><u>Blaster Break-down</u></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">7 basketball</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">7 baseball</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">7 football</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">5 hockey</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">5 golf</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">5 minis</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">2 jockey</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">2 track and field</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">1 MMA, soccer, boxing, lacrosse</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">1 actress, gangster, artist</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">1 insert</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><em>3 Short Prints</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><em>1 Super Short Print</em></span>jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-27848240430137494362013-02-04T20:35:00.000+00:002013-02-05T20:11:21.800+00:002013 Topps Heritage Baseball - coming soon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuoveyHgArBjdos545RJ4qwotrfWKjqYiw0nORbtGjpnW9l0rl-Qjn8hg9aYCC_GVz_vS7zq5EE8HGqz8Qn0UU8xXpzK5-GIsegcAoX7unWKbKKF4bPHkFyt7l-JaJ4Op4MS2jR1QRfUh/s1600/2012THERITAGEBBLOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuoveyHgArBjdos545RJ4qwotrfWKjqYiw0nORbtGjpnW9l0rl-Qjn8hg9aYCC_GVz_vS7zq5EE8HGqz8Qn0UU8xXpzK5-GIsegcAoX7unWKbKKF4bPHkFyt7l-JaJ4Op4MS2jR1QRfUh/s320/2012THERITAGEBBLOGO.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Product released 6th March 2013</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong>Topps Heritage is a throwback to the Topps 1964 baseball card release, featuring the top MLB players of today and retired legends from the past.</strong><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
BASE CARDS (1-500):<br />
Base Cards (425 Subjects):
Veterans & Rookies in the 1964 Topps Design.
<br />
High-Numbered Short-Printed cards (75)
<br />
<br />
Base Card Variation:
- Error Short-Prints Cards reproducing errors from the 1964 set. Limited
- Throwback Colt .45s Variations - All Houston Astros players will have a base card variation featuring them in their throwback Colt .45s uniform used during the 2012 season commemorating the last year they were named the Colt. .45s. Limited
<br />
<br />
<strong>PARALLELS:</strong><br />
<i><strong>Venezuelan Parallel:</strong></i>The card back color changes from Orange to Black<br />
<br />
<strong>INSERT CARDS:</strong><br />
<b><i>Then and Now:</i></b>Statistical comparison of a 1964 player vs. a 2012 player who were the leaders in statistical categories.<br />
<b><i>Baseball Flashbacks:</i></b>Flashback highlights from the 1964 season.<b><i></i></b><br />
<b><i>N</i></b><b><i>ews Flashbacks:</i></b>World news moments from 1964.<br />
<b><i>1</i></b><b><i>964 Topps Complete Set Redemption:</i></b>A redemption card for a complete set from 1964.<br />
<b><i>1964 Topps Tattos Buybacks:</i></b>These original tattoos from 1964 will be framed. <br />
<b><i>1964 Bazooka Stamps Buybacks:</i></b>These original stamps will be framed.<br />
<br />
<b><i>1964 (Box Loader):</i></b>Parallels of selected base cards that are included as 3-card strips with an advertisement back. <br />
<b><i>1</i></b><b><i>964 Topps Originals (Box Loader):</i></b>Original cards foil-stamped and inserted in 1-card penny packs. <b><i>1964 JUMBO Box Loader:</i></b> Styled after the 1964 Topps over-sized cards. <br />
<br />
24 Packs Per Box, 9 Cards Per Pack<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDihuXdYE30ckiALrRq5znFO9QLBxg-y98vMzrwl1Jt7Ktk-ympWRXQ0sbFlV59kF-rzqjZPtVSnTmkAnI0oX9076NO8GSGNUdEfetO7HsN3l692nf_LcRNhXsdqYIDIZFbp5TtDayR7Y/s1600/1964+5c+wrapper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDihuXdYE30ckiALrRq5znFO9QLBxg-y98vMzrwl1Jt7Ktk-ympWRXQ0sbFlV59kF-rzqjZPtVSnTmkAnI0oX9076NO8GSGNUdEfetO7HsN3l692nf_LcRNhXsdqYIDIZFbp5TtDayR7Y/s320/1964+5c+wrapper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-81028725584458503432013-02-03T20:39:00.000+00:002013-02-04T20:40:18.565+00:00The one that got away.<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="img img500" clk="0" height="310" id="icImg" itemprop="image" mskuskip="false" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Trading-card-collection-baseball-American-football-Thousands-very-rare-/00/s/MTExNlgxNDM1/$T2eC16J,!)UE9s3wBohGBQqQnrKRTQ~~60_12.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="img img500" clk="1" height="320" id="icImg" itemprop="image" mskuskip="false" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Trading-card-collection-baseball-American-football-Thousands-very-rare-/00/s/MTE5MlgxMDM4/$T2eC16Z,!yEE9s5jGJ6UBQqQuNvdJ!~~60_12.JPG" width="278" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There are meant to be times in your life when you reach a moment of sudden clarity of thought, referred to as an epiphany. A moment of great and sudden revelation. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My epiphany? I am stupid.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Very rarely, if ever, does a large lot of baseball cards appear for sale on EbayUK. Never are they located on the Isle or close enough that doesn't involve a passport and an eight hour flight. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So what did I do when I saw this item (picture above) listed on Ebay. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Buy it for £59? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You would think that wouldn't you. Well you would be wrong.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I ran, literally ran, upstarts to my wife and asked if we were doing anything this weekend as I would like to a little round trip to Reading -about 130 miles, 3 hours - if the traffic was bad.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Brilliant, calendar free.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Run back downstairs, Try to Buy it Now....Sold. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Should have bought it first and then asked.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
I'm sure there is a moral to this story in there somewhere.</div>
</div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-53740990096711679362013-01-07T21:04:00.002+00:002013-05-10T20:14:07.594+01:002013 Topps Heritage 1964 card design<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="160" src="http://atlsportscards.com/images/2013%20Topps%20Heritage%20BB.gif" width="320" /><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So there is a great deal of talk about 2013 and what that means as a collector. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Put aside all the other sets that I am trying to complete, that are accumulating year on year - for me 2013 will be all about Topps Heritage and the 1964 design.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If I try to ignore the 75 short prints, the Action Image variations and Colour variations and just aim for the 425 base set, there is a chance that I can complete before 2013 is out. (Funny I remember saying something very similar about the 1980 design in 2012 Archives). It will be difficult to ignore the Venezuelan parallel, as this black back variation was actually available in 1964, as opposed to the mini parallels and chrome parallel rubbish. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some of the inserts look interesting too-1964 Baseball Flashbacks, 1964 News Flashbacks, Then and Now 1964/2012 and let's not forget the 1964 Bazooka and Tattoos. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So anyone else going to 'show the love' for 2013 Topps Heritage or is just me?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVc5AdY46mh1SrHEPxCnBL5QHKTXJ7vcUdel1kGOegfaeQFunQ_BYDxFPY_S4H9SMmdpkPIMO-Wa3G-OuoEWfF2vQSTECxkrsZyliaWY8edYhhgghKputPPPk2Vy3sEgEY_J2sxRI6NKwd/s1600/1964+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVc5AdY46mh1SrHEPxCnBL5QHKTXJ7vcUdel1kGOegfaeQFunQ_BYDxFPY_S4H9SMmdpkPIMO-Wa3G-OuoEWfF2vQSTECxkrsZyliaWY8edYhhgghKputPPPk2Vy3sEgEY_J2sxRI6NKwd/s320/1964+4.jpg" width="187" /></a></div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-33902426938430314972013-01-06T13:57:00.000+00:002013-01-06T13:57:00.267+00:00Topps 2013 Football Stickers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVxQSh7ZLEOri3jgvLUf6PtmeG294rlZyYTobd7G6aWGZrOA4muz7RrfPlbvVQb4G11NMRgHJrB04CsCFprpvhtZgVKVQy1ym1S2Cku5QducGvYKuEX4R2F3QdVdbDHubGzjYMF19NaFmm/s1600/2013+football+stickres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVxQSh7ZLEOri3jgvLUf6PtmeG294rlZyYTobd7G6aWGZrOA4muz7RrfPlbvVQb4G11NMRgHJrB04CsCFprpvhtZgVKVQy1ym1S2Cku5QducGvYKuEX4R2F3QdVdbDHubGzjYMF19NaFmm/s320/2013+football+stickres.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The biggest number of views that I have on this blog are always related to posts about stickers, in particular football stickers. While other posts get maybe 80 views, football, whether it be Match Attax, Topps stickers or Panini stickers, get in excess of 300 views. Compared to many other blogs this is not many, but I have 30 followers-not 200+.</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This years sticker book is free, yes free. You purchase 4 packs of stickers for £2 and receive the sticker book gratis. A clever ploy or marketing technique, either way it works for me.</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are 352 stickers to collect, which includes 16 stickers per team- 2 of which make a squad picture plus a sparkly star player, 20 kit stickers- half size stickers as per last year and 20 international players.</div>
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Topps do stickers well, so there is no real change this year, (Why fix something that isn't broken?), thankfully they dropped the 3D stickers from a few years back.</div>
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I have 5 packs to showcase, purchased from Tesco supermarket in Broadstairs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIC4u_EDalgWPCGhhJJKwiuybfIv-52PWy2pItaMoj7LTamaT0LXRhctChmcQbBeQUpiyeiF6tXytd1FkC1qH_g4PGLcujVkOexnf6OLY7NfrpVp81xiiBovjlAJr6IjJjbLxukKxDTb8g/s1600/100+scan0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIC4u_EDalgWPCGhhJJKwiuybfIv-52PWy2pItaMoj7LTamaT0LXRhctChmcQbBeQUpiyeiF6tXytd1FkC1qH_g4PGLcujVkOexnf6OLY7NfrpVp81xiiBovjlAJr6IjJjbLxukKxDTb8g/s200/100+scan0012.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
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<strong><u>Pack 1:</u></strong></div>
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#61 Darron Gibson Everton</div>
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#137 Steven Taylor Newcastle</div>
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#252 Matthew Etherington Stoke</div>
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#258 Simon Mignolet Sunderland</div>
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#301 Gareth Bale Tottenham <em>star player</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbOz45pSXaiRrrsXigQOx6nLWUqLhFP3E6fwDvNpUmEKM7RjRaatKYDNdRhOUCOGOD2p2-gC2Gi5MDG5-prinbEj9bEuF63-x5mAPRi9puztRMTXAmxP5HcDXfMeKLOE63_TNIJV9L9NX/s1600/100+scan0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtbOz45pSXaiRrrsXigQOx6nLWUqLhFP3E6fwDvNpUmEKM7RjRaatKYDNdRhOUCOGOD2p2-gC2Gi5MDG5-prinbEj9bEuF63-x5mAPRi9puztRMTXAmxP5HcDXfMeKLOE63_TNIJV9L9NX/s640/100+scan0008.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u><strong>Pack 2:</strong></u></div>
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#148 John Ruddy Norwich</div>
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#200 Alejandro Faurlin QPR</div>
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#212 Reading team part 1</div>
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#223 Pavel Pogrebnyah Reading</div>
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#345 Antolin Alcaraz Wigan</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgR_hYoC1w9k9KxwUQhuHCGxOyo8ki50tF7GZgNThv6oSiWJa1QeeSx-i4kS_P2VDtAJ8n5EIjIUjREcNM4PDQZFJSo8el9FPRuUgM8ZLOGZfgab58R02gnVaodaYX38wxsQWzFblMs4h3/s1600/100+scan0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgR_hYoC1w9k9KxwUQhuHCGxOyo8ki50tF7GZgNThv6oSiWJa1QeeSx-i4kS_P2VDtAJ8n5EIjIUjREcNM4PDQZFJSo8el9FPRuUgM8ZLOGZfgab58R02gnVaodaYX38wxsQWzFblMs4h3/s640/100+scan0009.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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</div>
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<u><strong>Pack 3:</strong></u></div>
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#7 Arsenal team part 2</div>
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#49 Oscar Chelsea</div>
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#82 Hugo Rodallega Fulham</div>
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#308 West Bromwich Albion team part 1</div>
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#319 Peter Odemwingie West Bromwich</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFzFlpGYih5bEixFoL62UTLNbwRgC2V9LBCnxTaR8XyxWssQ6hauvWwWfDHgIR3yrbwwDf31fZf89uLdAGjZPcF-ynAMQJXXA2iglhM0deQ9hMFKoNujFRqQpZT1f7Pa6bJZzhaTGbBb1/s1600/100+scan0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFzFlpGYih5bEixFoL62UTLNbwRgC2V9LBCnxTaR8XyxWssQ6hauvWwWfDHgIR3yrbwwDf31fZf89uLdAGjZPcF-ynAMQJXXA2iglhM0deQ9hMFKoNujFRqQpZT1f7Pa6bJZzhaTGbBb1/s640/100+scan0010.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u><strong>Pack 4:</strong></u></div>
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#14 Theo Walcott Arsenal</div>
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#93 Joe Allen Liverpool</div>
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#113 Mario Balotelli Manchester City</div>
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#237 Richie Lambert Southampton <em>star player</em></div>
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#281Jonathan De Guzman Swansea</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvt8Eu1NIedX7erOnte6L5qEU53H0aVrZfwB3uJkCEJTkUNd0QVFryNFgfhYSwlcJ4OMKIwAq6yjJP2CvPAWPVpxao7brUqKwEAE8SLGTRXnScTOdA5nQMT4ma_OPR3LP5raCGo8SoUrj/s1600/100+scan0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvt8Eu1NIedX7erOnte6L5qEU53H0aVrZfwB3uJkCEJTkUNd0QVFryNFgfhYSwlcJ4OMKIwAq6yjJP2CvPAWPVpxao7brUqKwEAE8SLGTRXnScTOdA5nQMT4ma_OPR3LP5raCGo8SoUrj/s640/100+scan0011.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u><strong>Pack 5:</strong></u></div>
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#44 Frank Lampard Chelsea</div>
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#54 Everton team part 1</div>
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#174 Karim El Ahmadi Morocco <em>international star</em></div>
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#170 Sunderland/Swansea kit</div>
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#259 John O'Shea Sunderland</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZb8ibpC-Efu7NkiRL01kZhUx8wM2bIFuZRRFFdqW4xArKiAzyC1SHJW5FkLdpPnOEIneoNSAnEafjgg-30e2vTxReRAdwlkggWnhoAWfcHho77ewoXv9NVAQwNqurq58T-4QshYSwU0X/s1600/100+scan0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZb8ibpC-Efu7NkiRL01kZhUx8wM2bIFuZRRFFdqW4xArKiAzyC1SHJW5FkLdpPnOEIneoNSAnEafjgg-30e2vTxReRAdwlkggWnhoAWfcHho77ewoXv9NVAQwNqurq58T-4QshYSwU0X/s640/100+scan0013.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So there you have it, 5 packs of 2013 Topps football. A cross section of the stickers available but no Manchester United and one Manchester City- the most hated man in football.</div>
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Contact me if you would like an album some stickers, </div>
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Big B I have already posted yours.</div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-21062571819146109842012-11-19T20:57:00.002+00:002012-11-19T20:59:18.849+00:002012 Topps Archives Blaster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJGDUVnnQOFYM01pXDgYxwRRHnCowkOWmqeu4leY6Zep5g6dG3BaQUdDsgWg4Yx3gcb8Tofgcm_2MIHx-u3Jpj2qzyXvXn3ure5jA-cgL9mONX80yIEkBfYC8kgoMZ92Ub3ORri1bCnjc/s1600/100+scan0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJGDUVnnQOFYM01pXDgYxwRRHnCowkOWmqeu4leY6Zep5g6dG3BaQUdDsgWg4Yx3gcb8Tofgcm_2MIHx-u3Jpj2qzyXvXn3ure5jA-cgL9mONX80yIEkBfYC8kgoMZ92Ub3ORri1bCnjc/s320/100+scan0015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you have followed this blog at all in the past 4 years, you will know that one of my favourite baseball cards sets is the 1980 Topps. It's not the prettiest, there are no game used, autographs, short printed, shiny X fractors to find. Just a simple straight 726 cards to collect. </div>
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There are some challenges hidden amongst the checklist, everyone knows about the Rickey Henderson RC, but Nolan Ryan, Pete Rose, George Brett and Ozzie Smith are valued pretty high. Just don't tell COMC as there are about 70 Nolan Ryan's for sale, a $15.00 card can be bought for about $1.50, the O-Pee-Chee variation for about $5.00.</div>
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Topps used the 1980 design as part of the 2012 Archives and as I one of the card carrying members 1980 Topps Appreciation Society, I felt strongly compelled to collect all 50 cards in the 1980 design. </div>
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<a href="http://pursuitof80s.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/2012-topps-archives-1980-topps-design.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Follow my slow trawl.</span></a> </div>
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In an effort to boost my fledgling collection, I purchased a blaster. I would buy a box but the postage costs are too high, etc, etc...I've said it all before.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OMWw7QVm_O5jM2w3Tpk00gRHBC75_DbLTms8fKkctwYTAp2JfM1xFjRZdOcQ3Wyp_swWbSwJJKTZvbrAlnwEWAbmhQN81-3LrfRpmsbUOHDbYAQn98yG1Fer72mJR-My10TyWcC51-qH/s1600/100+scan0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OMWw7QVm_O5jM2w3Tpk00gRHBC75_DbLTms8fKkctwYTAp2JfM1xFjRZdOcQ3Wyp_swWbSwJJKTZvbrAlnwEWAbmhQN81-3LrfRpmsbUOHDbYAQn98yG1Fer72mJR-My10TyWcC51-qH/s320/100+scan0016.jpg" width="190" /></a></div>
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The blaster contains 8 packs and each pack has 8 picture cards.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<strong><u>Pack 1:</u></strong><br />
#28 Melky Cabrera Giants
<br />
#44 Cal Ripkin Jr Orioles
<br />
#84 Nyjer Morgamn Brewers
<br />
<strong>#136 David Ortiz Red Sox
</strong><br />
<strong>#139 Ivan Nova Yankees</strong>
<br />
#187 Nolan Ryan Astros
<br />
#190 Josh Hamilton Rangers
<br />
#683D-JV Joey Votto
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjFVwXHXkg1rkVdMyf7TsVXorCwDKWYnWQjU4dDGGSwTO3M3n1Lu-TNN2uuNibdfTPlSjZ-WxUASKnZ30jPWqeJV678qVb3usKGYlx16zJtrPmaLpFI014v_7B4ELp3ItJ1e3qzeW_wyD/s1600/100+scan0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjFVwXHXkg1rkVdMyf7TsVXorCwDKWYnWQjU4dDGGSwTO3M3n1Lu-TNN2uuNibdfTPlSjZ-WxUASKnZ30jPWqeJV678qVb3usKGYlx16zJtrPmaLpFI014v_7B4ELp3ItJ1e3qzeW_wyD/s320/100+scan0035.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>Pack 2:</u></strong><br />
#34 Jaime Garcia Cardinals<br />
#37 Jose Valverde Tigers<br />
#80 Troy Tulowitzki Rockies<br />
#87 Clay Buchholz Red Sox<br />
#125 David Freese Cardinals<br />
#154 Starlin Castro Cubs<br />
#175 Justin Morneau Twins<br />
#176 Wilie McCovey Giants gold stamp<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlWEDVm-y3S8qgkmXMWFOtOQ3L9Qgq8AKsdl2OLpQ_dxHDtWJ5CfVMRgsPDJmP3gklDyelZgjdD4u54AEqkRu8o1ntFwZ_jY7P6I4lRz-gak3xMp4nFiM9E54pTL0o9452iBEjvOE9qPv/s1600/100+scan0040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlWEDVm-y3S8qgkmXMWFOtOQ3L9Qgq8AKsdl2OLpQ_dxHDtWJ5CfVMRgsPDJmP3gklDyelZgjdD4u54AEqkRu8o1ntFwZ_jY7P6I4lRz-gak3xMp4nFiM9E54pTL0o9452iBEjvOE9qPv/s320/100+scan0040.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><u>Pack 3:</u></strong><br />
#17 Mat Latos Reds<br />
#47 Drew Pomeranz Rockies<br />
#69 Ryan Zimmerman Nationals<br />
#98 Johan Santana Mets<br />
<strong>#120 Tim Lincecum Giants</strong><br />
<strong>#148 R.A.Dickey Mets</strong><br />
#195 Brandon Morrow Blue Jays<br />
#77C-EH Eric Hosmer
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1k0OHHz57w9p248-MgULP7dZ_ySQ60-tVU7X1nQh2P4RpdGNTJ3gm3WN1R07j2dB47LtlrISolb3KXkjl3nsJlXQU3MIdDEKg4RVVPtkz83krG9OmZh6117woaGVI00Zb-I4Rk_2VAQK/s1600/100+scan0038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1k0OHHz57w9p248-MgULP7dZ_ySQ60-tVU7X1nQh2P4RpdGNTJ3gm3WN1R07j2dB47LtlrISolb3KXkjl3nsJlXQU3MIdDEKg4RVVPtkz83krG9OmZh6117woaGVI00Zb-I4Rk_2VAQK/s320/100+scan0038.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<strong><u>Pack 4:</u></strong><br />
#8 Matt Moore<br />
#12 Pablo Sandoval Giants<br />
#61 Brain McCann Braves<br />
#65 Jordan Zimmermann Nationals<br />
<strong>#105 Torii Hunter Angels</strong><br />
#171 Lucas Duda Mets<br />
#151 Stephen Strasburg Nationals<br />
#530 Dave Winfield Padres gold stamp<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtuj5NgKrz2GQTGphswW5t67sQq93DcPBTLq0jjlbuqr_XQbcDXmvcWjvLH6QNyLCFJ1fIzDGFqwTpYvdK3Rj7foFvoZx4E-FnHYJuQWh4KHPpiJro8q2yCR5WKbRBeBC8RhAp21IXuZt/s1600/100+scan0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtuj5NgKrz2GQTGphswW5t67sQq93DcPBTLq0jjlbuqr_XQbcDXmvcWjvLH6QNyLCFJ1fIzDGFqwTpYvdK3Rj7foFvoZx4E-FnHYJuQWh4KHPpiJro8q2yCR5WKbRBeBC8RhAp21IXuZt/s320/100+scan0036.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<strong><u>Pack 5:</u></strong><br />
#41 Corey Hart Brewers<br />
#42 Aroldis Chapman Reds<br />
#53 Adam Wainwright Cardinals<br />
#67 Justin Verlander Tigers<br />
<strong>#118 Desmond Jennings Bay Rays</strong><br />
<strong>#141 J.P.Arencibia Blue Jays</strong><br />
#169 Michael Morse Nationals<br />
#67S-TL Tim Lincecum sticker<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAU8eG1j1oGCjz7EM6w0SkhzwQ4-tnm5LToIhiLEeLcojaUb9G1yFk89vaKXeHehyphenhyphenkLPaUOFSj6i6og3BKcMst7C_ymhyphenhyphen7tEU0f8pRdJY9TAaRM6ZIgUXIesWQAu7DneEQED1ROMyNRDs4/s1600/100+scan0039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAU8eG1j1oGCjz7EM6w0SkhzwQ4-tnm5LToIhiLEeLcojaUb9G1yFk89vaKXeHehyphenhyphenkLPaUOFSj6i6og3BKcMst7C_ymhyphenhyphen7tEU0f8pRdJY9TAaRM6ZIgUXIesWQAu7DneEQED1ROMyNRDs4/s320/100+scan0039.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><u>Pack 6:</u></strong><br />
#2 Nick Swisher Yankees<br />
#40 Nelson Cruz Rangers<br />
#58 Tommy Hanson Braves<br />
<strong>#111 John Axford Brewers</strong><br />
<strong>#117 George Brett Royals</strong><br />
#162 Jayson Werth Nationals<br />
#168 Carlos Santana Indians<br />
#69DE-15 Joe Morgan deckle edge<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM3Ez5idGF1do0QjoJNelmUE-qv0PPt-1m5Poq7bOa_avklZciC8oyKoBsLtmjWIA0qk9qZXioRHIvJ60PtPIIWkwn9q-UyRPvV2J9Q5ywwiFT1sfYQotwTnHu09lDFuhnHaqLqjfhdzP/s1600/100+scan0041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM3Ez5idGF1do0QjoJNelmUE-qv0PPt-1m5Poq7bOa_avklZciC8oyKoBsLtmjWIA0qk9qZXioRHIvJ60PtPIIWkwn9q-UyRPvV2J9Q5ywwiFT1sfYQotwTnHu09lDFuhnHaqLqjfhdzP/s320/100+scan0041.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><u>Pack 7:</u></strong><br />
#78 Micuel Montero D-backs<br />
#94 Anibal Sanchez Marlins<br />
<strong>#130 Giancarlo Stanton Marlins</strong><br />
<strong>#145 Howie Kendrick Angels</strong><br />
#173 Daniel Hudson D-backs gold parallel<br />
#192 Brad Peacock Athletics<br />
#199 Mark Reynolds Orioles<br />
#218 Dave Righetti Yankees SP<br />
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<strong><u>Pack 8:</u></strong><br />
#18 Tom Seaver Mets<br />
#52 Geovany Soto Cubs<br />
#57 Josh Beckett Red Sox<br />
<strong>#102 Dee Gordon Dodgers</strong><br />
<strong>#109 Cliff Lee Phillies</strong><br />
#152 Johnny Cueto Reds<br />
#159 David Price Bay Rays<br />
#227 John Olerud Blue Jays SP<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf-7G4fQ0aJ2Pqd_bOvGl5Ynb3nxr9t788CSNsUFrgknndGNgZmSEtKQHH89HqUJO77Wh8NzLyyfrXPRIJ_pTkp2dB1F6_V0YE9WZSfN_kK0pyOcesfsbHiP2SUgvaWwJECyJAlu3nauCe/s1600/100+scan0043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf-7G4fQ0aJ2Pqd_bOvGl5Ynb3nxr9t788CSNsUFrgknndGNgZmSEtKQHH89HqUJO77Wh8NzLyyfrXPRIJ_pTkp2dB1F6_V0YE9WZSfN_kK0pyOcesfsbHiP2SUgvaWwJECyJAlu3nauCe/s320/100+scan0043.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Blaster breakdown:<br />
13 1954 Topps<br />
14 1971 Topps<br />
14 1980 Topps (9 needed)<br />
14 1984 Topps<br />
1 gold parallel<br />
2 short prints<br />
2 gold stamped reprints<br />
1 1977 cloth insert<br />
1 1967 sticker<br />
1 1969 deckle edge<br />
1 1968 3D<br />
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This is such a nice set.jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-61938566554270232182012-11-08T21:29:00.000+00:002012-11-08T21:29:33.703+00:00Do I need more 1980 Topps cards?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfnSSjrLCz49LPFu8L_yucv0q1wTGUyF6dh7nS_avqihndlVVvoumjYOMNKEMtUn8lfdo0_Jol3Q3K1bR2kXiz8tqOQCkg2dT-LU8JEehfiZP_oCmAK0Bvhk1enF5vhdT-hs4sc07qIk6/s1600/1980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfnSSjrLCz49LPFu8L_yucv0q1wTGUyF6dh7nS_avqihndlVVvoumjYOMNKEMtUn8lfdo0_Jol3Q3K1bR2kXiz8tqOQCkg2dT-LU8JEehfiZP_oCmAK0Bvhk1enF5vhdT-hs4sc07qIk6/s320/1980.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
A pile of 1980 Topps cards, consisting of 133 cards with no duplicates, became available on ebayUK a few days ago. It has been well over a year since I collected the last few I needed to complete the whole set. <br />
I have a few duplicates tucked safely within a box, my complete set neatly placed in 9 card sleeves (shown below) and the original 84 1980 Topps, the cards that initiated my descent into baseball card collecting in the first place, displayed for my regular enjoyment. <br />
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<img class="CSS_LIGHTBOX_SCALED_IMAGE_IMG" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZRk8DGtu2F17AzbU8gn-0GnbKMmnM8Ct7UEhdN5V_8ilmyidWOSwlQGOZbCdNzZm5tQj49o_9dS0cbEo3juHks-l_j9AdBw7I298rbeMESlCqA6KxaNK83Id_bi87dj2arlYXys7QTTE/s320/000_1061.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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Despite all this, I just couldn't help myself, I had to bid to win these cards.</div>
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Why? I don't need them. </div>
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There are other cards missing from my collection, I could concentrate on those.</div>
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It is no secret that the 1980 Topps is high on my list of favourite sets, but so are the '50's Bowman's</div>
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What motivates us poor collectors into accumulating like this?</div>
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Am I alone or is there a set of cards that drives you so mad that you just must gathering them?</div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-6470381910414243462012-10-20T19:12:00.002+01:002012-10-20T19:13:19.480+01:00Confessions of a Collector Part 3<div style="text-align: center;">
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Wow I forgot that I had written a third part to this about a book by Hunter Davies.</div>
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To jog the memory <a href="http://pursuitof80s.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/confessions-of-collector-part-1.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Part 1</span></a>, <a href="http://pursuitof80s.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/confessions-of-collector-part-2.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Part 2</span></a>.</div>
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I have just completed a very interesting book about collecting by the journalist Hunter Davies. He writes with such as easy and friendly style that you are drawn in. A little hint of you wants to get on the phone and call to say -'Hey I collected that...' </div>
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In Confessions of a Collector, Hunter maps the course of his collecting obsessions. He refers to his collecting as 'obsessive' because that is what he becomes, absolutely obsessed, with collecting every possible item he can. He rarely refuses to an offer of items relating to his collections. </div>
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The Beatles are his longest and most expensive collecting obsession, but he doesn't draw the line there. His collections span subjects such as football, autographs, suffragettes, Penny Black stamps, Prime Ministers, Coronation mugs, magazines and other pieces of assorted ephemera like postcards, invoices and letters from the Victorian era. He never apologises for collecting, but it is obvious that he a little troubled by his need to keep matchboxes, napkins and coasters from places he visits.</div>
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There is an pause in the showcasing of his collections, a chapter called 'Joys and Pains of Collecting.' In this interlude he asks: 'Why do we collect?' and 'What is the joy in collecting?' Questions I have asked myself many times. </div>
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Why...oh why...?</div>
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Being a cleverer gent than myself, Hunter has determined that there are 9 reasons why people (although not exclusively, but mostly men) collect.</div>
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1. Hunter-Gathering. </div>
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Apparently going back to ancient roots. There is delight in going out foraging, looking for treasure, or even scraps that might just turn out to be interesting. It takes cunning, patience and knowledge to bag the 'Big One'- just like hunting. The more you collect , the less likely you will come home empty handed, without a kill. </div>
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2. Possessing. </div>
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Possession gives you a great feeling, knowing you own something. Spinning out the pleasure for several days in order to truly savour the latest find.</div>
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3. Completion. </div>
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It feels pretty good to complete sets, runs and rows of objects, hunting down and then finally bagging that missing item, till at long last you have filled all the gaps. Although collectors often create their own gaps, just as they create their own hunt in the first place. Set ourselves goals and just when we finally finish the task we set ourselves, we create another. In the process building something unique.</div>
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4. Knowledge.</div>
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How else would we know that- 'Rick Monday hit 3 homers in a game in 1972', Robin Yount's older brother Larry, pitched for the Astros and that one day he would like to be a professional golfer or race motorcycles or 'Which team suffered the most shut-outs in one season?' Well we know this from the backs of baseball cards. Likewise knowing the history of a sport can be completely fascinating. I like to know the provenance of my cards and packs, it makes collecting them a little more interesting particularly here in the UK. How did unopened packs land on these shores? What is a 1939 Goudey card doing as a bookmark in a book shoved in the back of a charity shop? It would be interesting to know, perhaps even more interesting than knowing that no one has ever a home run out of the Yankees Stadium, although 1963 Mickey Mantle came awfully close. Knowledge is good, knowledge is power.</div>
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5. Escape.</div>
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A wonderful escape and distraction from the humdrum of a busy life. I started poking around looking for baseball card collectors in the UK in late 2007, as a distraction from a new, stressful job, that I was hating. Laying awake at night thinking about the solutions to problems that may develop the in next day or week. In the process I found Ben Henry, A Pack a Day and Thorzul. The therapy, the easing of my psychological problems, this means of escape was soothing my troubled soul and I had found people of a similar ilk. All I had to concern myself with now, was when a little yellow package would be slipping through my letterbox. </div>
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6. Investment.</div>
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My dad would say 'A Mug's Game.' Hunter suggests, 'Never collecting to make money - only acquire what interests you'. If this is your reason for collecting certain items in the hope that it will one day pay off your mortgage or university tuition for one of your children. Stop right now. Look at all those people who bought boxes of cards in the ninety's. I've often thought about buying a load of cards to 'cherry pick' the ones I want and sell the rest to invest in more cards but my wife, four children and so may other things like food snap me back to reality.<br />
7. Perfect for Loners<br />
Hunter points out that there are may hobbies people take up in which to interact with others, he lists sports mainly and hints that certain collectors can happily be in their own little worlds collecting in the privacy of their own house. I must disagree with this one entirely. For as long as I have been collecting baseball cards, I have searched for collectors with similar habits, to discuss, compare and 'swap'. I didn't really find many people of a similar persuasion until I started blogging. A whole massive world (literally) of relationships developed and new ones being created regularly. I feel the pursuit of baseball collecting has become far more enjoyable since I started trading/getting in contact with other collectors. I am no longer alone..sniff, sniff.<br />
8. Identity<br />
I collect, therefore I am. There is importance and self worth in being a knowledgeable collector. It is unfortunate that there are very rich collectors who can outbid, gobble up all the 1of 1's, super refractors and mega relics depriving the rest of us those unique pieces for our collection. Yet, in moderation, the feeling of many collectors that their hobby somehow sets them apart is no bad feeling. 'There is nothing wrong in self worth.'<br />
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I really enjoyed reading this book.<br />
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<span id="btAsinTitle">Confessions of a Collector: Or How to be a Part-Time
Treasure Hunter </span><br />
<span>Hunter Davies</span><br />
<span>224 pages</span><br />
<span class="byLinePipe">Publication Date: </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">15 Oct 2009</span> <span class="byLinePipe">|
ISBN-10:</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> 1847246044 </span><span class="byLinePipe">| ISBN-13:</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">
978-1847246042</span> <br />
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jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403835652165960923.post-70334157812021127812012-10-12T22:10:00.003+01:002012-10-12T22:12:40.362+01:001964 Topps Giants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmR3BjvfpaJ_0JLYiNfBTWqNGwtqmk0blInzXkLKkWXFP81zrIIyZDl_6IeEtyipNyIj6V215PbCziaCt47tdcwH52UwPqZtEnOSCKi5H6KGYkPgu0WbhDQMWMSqv_6S7O8q5Lk4TCKsCq/s1600/100+scan0026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmR3BjvfpaJ_0JLYiNfBTWqNGwtqmk0blInzXkLKkWXFP81zrIIyZDl_6IeEtyipNyIj6V215PbCziaCt47tdcwH52UwPqZtEnOSCKi5H6KGYkPgu0WbhDQMWMSqv_6S7O8q5Lk4TCKsCq/s320/100+scan0026.jpg" width="189" /></a></div>
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Ahhh...1964... the year Richard Kimble continued to outwit the Stafford Police, </div>
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Ben, Adam, Hoss and Little Joe Cartwright delighted us with western adventures on the Ponderosa Ranch, </div>
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Gilligan, et al are castaway on a deserted island, </div>
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'You Rang' becomes a popular catch phrase, </div>
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Herman Munster scares the crap out of thousands of children,</div>
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Russel Crowe, Courteney Cox, Stone Cold Steve Austin are born, </div>
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The Beatles ride high in the Top 40 with 'She Loves You'.</div>
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Top of The Pops airs on the BBC for the first time, </div>
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Elvis as Rusty Jackson, sang and wiggled his hips alongside the gorgeous Ann Margret, in Viva Las Vegas, </div>
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Dick Van Dyke acted/sang, in what is regarded as the worst cockney accent ever and </div>
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Sean Connery, arguably the best Bond, fought Oddjob in Goldfinger, while From Russia with Love still excited cinema fans the world over. </div>
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What a great year!</div>
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I had never really thought about collecting this particular oddball set before now. I'm not sure whether it really qualifies as oddball anyway. In 1964, Topps produced, along side the 587 card regular set, a number of stand alone sets-Topps Giants, Topps Stand-Ups and Tattoos.</div>
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One of the many pursuits I have is to collect the complete 1964 Topps set, hoping to snag some of the other '64 sets produced along the way. Even cards based on the design of the 1964 cards are falling within this particular pursuit. </div>
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So when this graded '64 Topps Giant recently appeared on eBayUK, I just had to have it within my collection. </div>
jackplumsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03996162352392127636noreply@blogger.com3