Topic: Spirits who changed the soul of the game and their definitive cards

[ASF123]

Originally Posted by bk400

I think you'd have to include Hank Aaron.

Also, Shohei Ohtani's story isn't finished yet, but he's probably done more to popularize MLB in East Asia than anyone else.

Totally agree with both. In fact, Ohtani is the only ultra-modern player whose rookie card I bought just for historical posterity.

[jingram058]

Originally Posted by ASF123

Totally agree with both. In fact, Ohtani is the only ultra-modern player whose rookie card I bought just for historical posterity.

I agree with this as well, even if he is a Yankee, er, Dodger (since the Dodgers became the Yankees, it's easy to become confused).

[robw1959]

Originally Posted by jingram058

I agree with this as well, even if he is a Yankee, er, Dodger (since the Dodgers became the Yankees, it's easy to become confused).

Label me confused as to the Dodgers becoming the Yankees?

[jingram058]

Originally Posted by robw1959

Label me confused as to the Dodgers becoming the Yankees?

So the Yankees under George Steinbrenner were the Evil Empire, buying World Championships. What are the Dodgers doing now? Still confused?

[Leon]

Jackie changed everything in MLB (and a nod to those before him too).

This is a great card of him though I don't own it any longer.

[Bigdaddy]

Curt Flood was the first man who stood up to the owners, challenging the reserve clause which ended up changing the balance of power between the owners and players and having a huge impact on the game.

My favorite Flood card:

[Balticfox]

The problem though is Curt Flood's suit led to the present game of musical chairs when it comes to which player is with what team this year. That is most assuredly not in the interests of the fans and the success of the enterprise of MLB depends upon the fans continuing to support the game.

My vote here goes to Maury Wills though. He reinvigorated the game in 1962 by revitalizing action on the base paths. He opened the door for players such as Lou Brock, Ricky Henderson, Tim Raines, Vince Coleman, etc. whose talents might otherwise have been overlooked. Wills didn't have a Topps card until 1967 though but here are a few Post Cereal and Salada-Junket beauties from 1962:

(Not mine.)

[dbussell12]

Originally Posted by Bigdaddy

Curt Flood was the first man who stood up to the owners, challenging the reserve clause which ended up changing the balance of power between the owners and players and having a huge impact on the game.

My favorite Flood card:

wow -- great choice. yes; this reminds me at first thought of the federal league 1914-15 period as well. there have been several periods in baseball history where this balance of power was most tested; i have to think of the federal league, black sox, and flood as being some really strong examples of levee breaking shifts there.