Brooks Robinson and the Baltimore Orioles

[roarfrom34]

Learned today that Jerry Walker a member of the famed Orioles "Kiddie Korps" passed away last weekend at the age of 85.

Interestingly, I never knew that Walker was the youngest pitcher to ever start (and win) an All Star Game back in 1959 (the second game played in LA) at the age of 18....More interestingly, this fact was missed last evening during Fox's broadcast from their list of rookie pitchers who started an ASG.

Mr. Walker was good to autograph collectors and one of my favorite pieces he signed for me over the years was this photo:

[Chstrite]

Nice pic, Mark. Brooks was a slick dresser. Agree…looks like Gorsuch.

[Chstrite]

Day 199 – 18 July 2024
Does anyone else enjoy vintage Oriole mugs? Here is an obscure one from F.R. Woods in Cooperstown, NY. The front has the Hartzell Bird. The back says Home of Baseball. The gold trim around the mug is nice.

[Zach Wheat]

Mark,

Great player and one of my favorites. I met him once and he was kind enough to let my son take a picture with him. He was a real class act even though everyone was vying for his time.

Great thread for a player tribute.

[Chstrite]

Day 200 – 19 July 2024
Recently, the Baseball Hall of Fame created some new pins for HoF members. Below is the Brooks Robinson new pin. I think the pin is nice. I believe they are about $10 on the HoF website plus shipping. Ebay has a few for about $24.

[Chstrite]

Day 201 – 20 July 2024
Nothing too exciting today. A few of my “banks” related to the Baltimore Orioles. The Farmers Bank and Trust Company Bank of Hanover is pretty rare and from the 1970s. The white ball I believe is from the 1970s, too. The National Bohemian can I believe is from the 1970s. The Bobblehead type Bird is more recent. The plastic hat I believe is from the 1970s. There is a crystal ball shaped bank out there I am looking for. Show us your banks.

[Mark70Z]

Originally Posted by Zach Wheat

Mark,

Great player and one of my favorites. I met him once and he was kind enough to let my son take a picture with him. He was a real class act even though everyone was vying for his time.

Great thread for a player tribute.

Your experience is pretty typical with any encounter with Brooks. Such a down to earth great person. He’s definitely missed…

[ksfarmboy]

Love the farmers bank and trust bank. I need to get one someday.

[Mark70Z]

I have one head bank that just has Baltimore Orioles on the bottom portion.

Really neat looking HOF pin…

[ksfarmboy]

That’s a beauty Mark!

[Chstrite]

Nice bank, Mark! Looks brand new. Thanks for sharing.

[Chstrite]

Day 202 – 21 July 2024
The Wooden “Robinson #5” sign I picked up from the Cooperstown Hall of Fame store. It is new but really like the craftmanship. It is pretty heavy and looks old.

[Chstrite]

Day 203 - 22 July 2024
Today I am showing you my PSA Registry Complete Set of Rawlings 1964-66 Premium Photos. Some of these photos match the Rawlings Big 8 Glove Box that can be cut down into single cards or 4 player panels. My set is not in the best condition but is #1 on PSA with over half being highest graded. There are 9 different players with three players having 2 different photos. Included is Boyer (Cardinals and Mets), Davis, Groat, Mantle with black undershirt and no undershirt, Brooks with glove at waist and glove on knee, Spahn, Tresh, White and Williams. Finding the Mantle with the T-shirt was the most difficult photo to find and a bit expensive. The Brooks with the glove at his waist is out there but harder to find then the other Brooks.

[Chstrite]

Day 204 – 23 July 2024
In 1979 the Orioles fell short on winning their 3d World Series. Despite not winning, they had a great team. I have a lot of different mugs, glasses, cups, and steins featuring the Orioles. I found this mug recently with the names of the players and coaches. Of course, Earl Weaver was the manage with Cal Sr. Frank Robinson, Elrod, Frey, and Ray Miller. You see the players listed including some of our favorites Belanger, McGregor, Palmer, Dempsey, Singleton, Martinez, Flanagan and Murray. Nothing fancy but happy to add to my collections.

[Chstrite]

Day 205 – 24 July 2024
Always looking for new items to add to the Brooks Robinson PSA Master Set to preserve items related to Brooksie. Recently, I saw a 1977 Baltimore Orioles Burger Chef Funmeal Complete Tray on ebay PSA 3 graded. It sold for over $325. I was shocked. I then had to figure out how to get the tray graded; the tray as made and handed out at Burger Chef is a inch or so to big. I contacted a few collectors and the actual seller of the Orioles tray and figured out I had to cut the tray ever so slightly on the right and at the top and bottom tab. I then submitted the tray to PSA and it came back graded as a PSA 6, which surprised me; it should be highest graded. I have requested the tray be added to the Brooks Robinson PSA Master Set along with his Disc. My research should prove correct to add this given Nolan Ryan Master Set has the complete tray. I think it looks great graded but I am sure a few others will scratch their head and wonder what I am doing.

[roarfrom34]

Charlie-

I've never seen one slabbed before but that's probably because it had to be slightly trimmed in order to fit one of their holders....

Shouldn't it have been graded as simply authentic as opposed to assigning a numerical grade to it (due to it being trimmed)?

Bill

[Chstrite]

Bill, don’t disagree. I researched a good bit on how to get the box graded without trimming. Finally concluded it had to be trimmed and then researched how to trim. Back and forth with pulling folks in. Then figured it out, trimmed, submitted and got the PSA 6 grade. Have assisted other collectors.

[Chstrite]

Day 206 - 25 July 2024
I have not really shown a lot of pictures but happy to share this recent pick up. The photos are team issued from 1973. First, there is a team photo, which I have not seen before. I found this one pretty unique. I am then showing the 1973 Promotional Pictures Sheets from the Baltimore Orioles, which includes Brooks Robinson. The three larger 8 x 10 photos I believe are from 1973 but not 100% sure. They appear to be the same or very similar to the Promotional Sheet. Included is Brooks, Palmer and Grant Jackson. Will show more photos in the coming days.

[roarfrom34]

Mel Held who pitched in four games for the '56 Orioles passed away last weekend at the age of 95........

[Chstrite]

Day 207 – 26 July 2024
Previously I shared a few items from the Brooks and Eddie Robinson’s Gorsuch House. Today, I am showing shadow box of assorted items from their restaurant. At the top left, there is what looks like a business card, which is oversized. The card discusses the hours, phone number and details about the restaurant. At the bottom of the card it mentions the hosts to include Brooksie. There are coffee stirrers at the top and on each side of the menu. They are purple (hockey sticks), yellow (wrestling and baseball), and white (boxing and bowling). There is a matchbook with details about the restaurant, and napkin. The centerpiece is a menu signed by Eddie and Brooks. The menu included all types of sandwiches, appetizers, traditional American favorites, seafood, breakfast, and cocktails. On the bottom and top corners are pictures of the two signing the menu. I am not familiar with anything else out there but the ashtray, which I am looking for.

[Chstrite]

Day 208 – 27 July 2024
Another Gorsuch House item is a matchbook cover from the restaurant before Brooks bought in. The Gorsuch House featured just Eddie Robinson. On the backside is a map showing the location of the Gorsuch House and Memorial Stadium.

[Chstrite]

Day 209 – 28 July 2024
I recently found another ungraded 1957-59 Brooks Robinson team issued post card. I had the one facing right but found the other version where Brooks is facing left. Both are with his handwriting on the back mailed postmarked 1958 and 1960. Both post cards have his middle name misspelled (Colbert). There are differences between the two cards with the background, number, hat / face, and smile. The script appears to be slightly different.

[Mark70Z]

Originally Posted by Chstrite

Day 209 – 28 July 2024
I recently found another ungraded 1957-59 Brooks Robinson team issued post card. I had the one facing right but found the other version where Brooks is facing left. Both are with his handwriting on the back mailed postmarked 1958 and 1960. Both post cards have his middle name misspelled (Colbert). There are differences between the two cards with the background, number, hat / face, and smile. The script appears to be slightly different.

Really like all of the Gorsuch house items. Haven’t seen the stirrers before. I’ve seen the menu, but don’t have one; really rare.

Really nice early O’s team issue postcards. Makes it even better that the mailing information is in Brooks’ hand.

[ripfan008]

I recently picked up this 1994 Global Sports magazine from China with Cal Ripken on the cover. Flipping through the pages, I was unable to find any other photos of Cal, so he may have just been featured on the front.

1994 Global Sports Ripken magazine.jpg

[Chstrite]

Day 210 – 29 July 2024
Another Baltimore Oriole’s Season Ticket Plan program. This one is from 1967 focusing on the Orioles 4 game sweep of the Dodgers. Brooks and McNally adorn the cover in celebration. On the inside season plans are described. Frank Robinson and Jim Palmer along with Davey Johnson have pictures. Box seating for all home games would cost you $228.

[Chstrite]

Day 211 – 30 July 2024
1974 was another banner year so the Orioles Ticket Plan for 1975 said just that on the front cover. The ticket to the right on the cover is my birthday (I turned 10 on August 23, 1975), so I thought that was cool). I really enjoy the color on the front cover. The cover lists pennant seasons and includes Brooks, Blair, Bellanger and I think that is Cuellar. On the inside you see the Athletics from the playoffs and Baylor and Palmer. Season passes for a lower box for all games is $356; up a $128 from 1966…see yesterday’s post. Included in the plan document is a mini plan sheet with other prices. On the back is Bellanger again with his 2nd baseman Grich along with the seasons schedule.

[Mark70Z]

Originally Posted by Chstrite

Day 211 – 30 July 2024
1974 was another banner year so the Orioles Ticket Plan for 1975 said just that on the front cover. The ticket to the right on the cover is my birthday (I turned 10 on August 23, 1975), so I thought that was cool). I really enjoy the color on the front cover. The cover lists pennant seasons and includes Brooks, Blair, Bellanger and I think that is Cuellar. On the inside you see the Athletics from the playoffs and Baylor and Palmer. Season passes for a lower box for all games is $356; up a $128 from 1966…see yesterday’s post. Included in the plan document is a mini plan sheet with other prices. On the back is Bellanger again with his 2nd baseman Grich along with the seasons schedule.

That SCREAMS the ‘70’s. Love the colors and the drawings of the players. Cool piece…

[quitcrab]

Picked up a nice Brooks Bazooka.

[Chstrite]

Nice Bazooka Box! Congratulations.

[Chstrite]

Day 212 – 31 July 2024
Today I am showing you the 1957 Press, Radio and TV Guide. This copy is in mint condition. The Hartzell Bird on the cover is nice along with the picture of the stadium in Scottsdale, AZ. It provides countless information on the inside about the team with pictures of the players including Brooks. The back cover includes a schedule.

[Mark70Z]

Originally Posted by quitcrab

Picked up a nice Brooks Bazooka.

Looks to be in very nice shape; congrats on the pickup.

[Chstrite]

Day 213 – 1 August 2024
One of my favorite things to collect are the older Oriole Christmas Cards. This copy is from 1960, “A Miracle on 33rd Street.” There is a slot on the cover for something to be inserted. On the inside it has facsimile signatures of the team. It says, “Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Hapy New Year from the Entire Organization.”

[Chstrite]

Day 214 – 2 August 2024
Another one of my favorite items to collect are the older Mega Phones from Memoiral Stadium. This one is from the 1961 Bethlehem Steel Night. The Hartzell Bird is on the front with information about Bethlehem’s Major Operations in Baltimore. On the side it mentions Family Night and on the other side it says, “It Can Be Done in ’61.” It has some wrinkles but that adds to its character. What a great piece.

[Chstrite]

215 – 3 August 2024
Today I am showing you a couple random items from 1966 and 1970. The first item is a 1966 Orioles Exhibition Game Program from Miami Stadium. On the inside it has details about spring training and the Orioles roster for 1966 to include a nice photo of their newest All Star, Mr. Frank Robinson with his Reds uniform and hat. Another “Miami” item is a scorecard from 1970 featuring Earl Weaver on the inside. I like the Decker Bird on the cover and the advertisement for Regal Premium Beer…anyone familiar with this beer?

[Chstrite]

216 – 4 August 2024
Today I am showing you a 1983 Maryland Magazine called “Sport Scene.” The magazine is dated April 1983 and has an article about Brooks Robinson. The article is short and celebrates his career and pending HoF ceremony. It is a short read but highlights some key moments in his life and talks about what he will say in Cooperstown, NY later that July. It has a nice couple of photos with information about Brooks’ story on audio and the 1966 Orioles Card Set order information. It is always interesting to be reminded or learn where things you collect were made available such as the audio tape and cards.

[Chstrite]

217 – 5 August 2024
In 1976 Charles Linnett created a set of pictures on thick paper stock of MLB players. This included several Orioles. Brooks Robinson and Jim Palmer appeared in the set. Here is a graded version of Brooks (highest graded). A few years ago I found the original artwork of Palmer featured in the frame today. Recently, I found a sealed picture by Linnett of Palmer that was handed out to the fans. Within the packet is the Palmer picture and on the other side is a document that welcomes the fan to Grant City / Charles Linnett Portrait Day. Would love to find a version of Brooks as well as the original art work.

[Chstrite]

218 – 6 August 2024
Today I am showing you a Type 1 photo of the Baltimore Orioles 1st African American ballplayer. Jehosie “Jay” Heard (1920-1999 debuting as a MLB pitcher with the Orioles as a 34 year old) was a left handed pitcher appearing in 2 games in 1954; twice against the White Sox. He pitched in 3 /13 innings with a W-L record of 0-0. He pitched in the Negro Leagues from 1945-1951. He also pitched in the Army during WW2. He had success with the Orioles in his first game on 24 April 1954 facing four batters successfully. His second outing on 28 May 1954 was not as great; he allowed 6 hits and 5 runs in two innings. He would return to the minor leagues until 1957. I am showing you a Type 1 photo that was used for his Topps 1954 baseball card. The photo is by Greer Stuidos, INC from Baltimore, Maryland. This photo is stamped April 1954. The photo is in great shape and pretty cool it was included on the Topps Card as an inset.

[Mark70Z]

Originally Posted by Chstrite

218 – 6 August 2024
Today I am showing you a Type 1 photo of the Baltimore Orioles 1st African American ballplayer. Jehosie “Jay” Heard (1920-1999 debuting as a MLB pitcher with the Orioles as a 34 year old) was a left handed pitcher appearing in 2 games in 1954; twice against the White Sox. He pitched in 3 /13 innings with a W-L record of 0-0. He pitched in the Negro Leagues from 1945-1951. He also pitched in the Army during WW2. He had success with the Orioles in his first game on 24 April 1954 facing four batters successfully. His second outing on 28 May 1954 was not as great; he allowed 6 hits and 5 runs in two innings. He would return to the minor leagues until 1957. I am showing you a Type 1 photo that was used for his Topps 1954 baseball card. The photo is by Greer Stuidos, INC from Baltimore, Maryland. This photo is stamped April 1954. The photo is in great shape and pretty cool it was included on the Topps Card as an inset.

That’s a very nice photo. I’m assuming that was taken in Arizona during spring training. Think it makes the photo even better since the photo is used on his baseball card.

[Chstrite]

I agree, Mark. I really like that photo and the card…especially how the photo was used on the card.

[Chstrite]

219 – 7 August 2024
Recently found this small “Rocks” glass from the 76th WS from 1979. The glass is in great shape, measures 3.5 inches and makes a great display with other 1979 WS items.

[Chstrite]

220 – 8 August 2024
Today I am showing you a July 31, 1983 HoF Induction Ceremonies Press Pass. This is pass number 282 for Brooks Robinson’s induction ceremony. I have quite a few items from this occasion but missing a actual ticket or reserved seating ticket, and HoF pin with a yellow ribbon for a “guest.” Also, looking for the game played at Doubleday Field on 1 August 1983.

[Chstrite]

221 – 9 August 2024
Recently found another Memorial Stadium Aisle Marker. This one is #24 bringing my total to 14. My favorite #24 that played at Memorial Stadium is the 1983 WS MVP Rick Dempsey. #33, #20 and #5 are still on my list!!! See picture for the ones I am fortunate to have including the shinny #24.

[Mark70Z]

Originally Posted by Chstrite

221 – 9 August 2024
Recently found another Memorial Stadium Aisle Marker. This one is #24 bringing my total to 14. My favorite #24 that played at Memorial Stadium is the 1983 WS MVP Rick Dempsey. #33, #20 and #5 are still on my list!!! See picture for the ones I am fortunate to have including the shinny #24.

Very nice induction pass. I try to pick up items from Brooks’ induction. I’ve never seen a catalog from the HOF that pictured items available at the time. May not have done this in ‘83, but not sure.

The brass aisle markers you have acquired are very impressive. Would look neat in a frame with #1 thru…

(Does anyone know the # of Sections in Memorial Stadium? I know it’s at least 40.)

[Chstrite]

Mark, holding out till I find #5!!! 20 and 33 needed, too. I do enjoy them. I do enjoy the aisle markers.

[Chstrite]

222 – 10 August 2024
I have show several signs over the past few months relating to the Orioles. Today I am showing you another OPACY sign. This one warns fans of foul balls. This sign is bright orange (my favorite) with white all cap letters with a white trim. The sign is small measuring 5 in X 7 in. It says “WARNING: SEATS IN THIS AREA ARE NOT PROTECTED BY FOUL BALL SCREEN.”

[Mark70Z]

Originally Posted by Chstrite

222 – 10 August 2024
I have show several signs over the past few months relating to the Orioles. Today I am showing you another OPACY sign. This one warns fans of foul balls. This sign is bright orange (my favorite) with white all cap letters with a white trim. The sign is small measuring 5 in X 7 in. It says “WARNING: SEATS IN THIS AREA ARE NOT PROTECTED BY FOUL BALL SCREEN.”

Super NICE sign!

[Chstrite]

223 – 11 August 2024
Nothing special today. I have a couple baseball related Hartzell originals from his work with the Baltimore Sun. He was a cartoonist with the Sun from 1934 – 1979. He drew the first cartoon Oriole for the franchise in 1954. His Oriole was the model for MLB team’s mascot. His drawings and the ones I show you today were mounted on illustration board, photostated, and set up for publication. I believe the larger of the two sketches are Paul Richards (Manager) and Lee MacPhail (GM) during the early 1960s. The smaller one is a version of the Oriole “bird” with the stadium. I have a bunch of other ones from Hartzell but not baseball related if anyone collects these.

[Chstrite]

225 – 13 August 2024
Thought to share some details and pictures on the 1971 Milk Duds complete box set. Brooks Robinson appeared on two boxes that having different box numbers. The pictures are the same but Brooks has a box numbered #18 and #23. He is one of three players with this similar issue in the 72 box set. Killebrew and Rose have a similar situation. This set was hard to assemble. Clemente goes for a crazy price. I also found Munson and Bench to be difficult. Pictured is the two versions of Brooks in a PSA 6 holders, a PSA 9 hand cut card and a assembled box along with a picture of my set.

[Chstrite]

226 - 14 August 2024
Today I am showing you my “straw” hat from the 1966 World Series. It is adorn with a band that runs around it in Orange the Bird holding a trumpet saying “Charge” and the 1966 WS Dodgers – Orioles emblem. I have had this for quite some time. Does anyone remember these being worn at Memorial Stadium?

[Chstrite]

227 – 15 August 2024
Today I am showing you my 1969 Topps Stamps panel set. This set is the horizontal version. I believe there are 24 different panels of 12 players. Some of the players appear on 2 or more panels. I recently found the middle panel featuring Al Kaline and Carl Yastrzemski. This set can also be collected as a vertical version and of course the singles. I have both versions graded along with the single. The panels do not grade very well.