Steve Carlton Game Used Fielding Gloves

Steve Carlton's Last Game Glove

Goldin Auctions - July 2013
Lot # 237
Steve Carlton's Last Game Glove

While scrolling through the 'game-used' baseball lots for Goldin's July 2013 auction I saw this left-handed fielder's glove and stopped.  It an odd moment for me.  Complete with an inscription from Steve Carlton stating, "Final ML Glove", this beauty could instantly legitimize a Lefty collection.  Far from "super-collector" status myself, seeing the picture of the aged player in a Minnesota Twins uniform took me back to 1986 when I started collecting...a time when each of his new cards was more sad looking than the one before.

My dad took me to Carlton's last game with the Phillies in June 1986.  Probably sensing the end was near for the 4-time Cy Young Award Winner, it was a "better-late-than-never" trip.  I remember a large portion of our drive being consumed with talk of Lefty and his heyday with the perennial contenders of the late 70s-early 80s. And, although he got roughed up by the Cardinals, that night made me a fan of Carlton's for life.

I enjoy looking at the premier Steve Carlton items, like this glove, that occasionally come up for bid.  And, though my Lefty collection may be void of a centerpiece, I'll continue to keep my eyes open for one from his Phillies-era at a workable price...

Comps:

1982 Game Used Glove (sold with game cleats)
Leland's (5/2007): $3,927

1977 Game Used Glove
Grey Flannel (4/2010): $6,436

1984 Game Used Glove
Mears Auctions (11/2010): $3,974 (*resold in 2011 for $1,319 - Yikes!)

1972 Game Used Glove
Schulte Auctions (6/2013): $4,055 (did not meet reserve, was originally sold by Huggins and Scott in 2010 for $8000! )

Phillies TTM: Week of 6/24/13

With no new requests going out for two weeks, the successes have been a little slow here over the past week or so.  Luckily, a couple outstanding requests came back to tide me over until the next batch of new requests start rolling back in...

Justin Friend

Justin Friend signed photo

Friend has been enjoying a pretty good first half of 2013 between Reading and Lehigh Valley.  I never got around to buying his Heritage Minor League card, so instead printed off this photo of him pitching for Reading.  I have generally not focused on collecting minor league autographs in the past, but it's been fun sending a few out this Summer.

c/o The IronPigs
Coca-Cola Park
1050 IronPigs Way
Allentown, PA 18109


Dave Cash

Dave Cash signed photo

This was the last of the those 1976 Phillies Yearbook drawings by Dick Perez that I printed and sent a few weeks ago.  I still have a Garry Maddox that I am going to keep for the BBQ during Alumni Weekend.

16308 Birkdale Dr. 
Odessa FL 33556

Dallas Green Book Tour Dates

Dallas Green's Memoir, "The Mouth That Roared"

Dallas Green is a man on a mission: Sell some books!

Since the long-time Phillie released his memoir, "The Mouth That Roared" in May, he has been making stops across the Delaware Valley at places like Citizens Bank Park and your local Barnes and Noble.  And, it doesn't look like he's going to slow down anytime soon, either.  As of now, "Big D" has six signings booked, including one in Wilmington at Kid Shelleen's on August 17th that was just announced today.

Here is the full listing of events:

• 7/3 - Barnes and Noble, Concord Pike Wilmington, DE 2:00PM
• 7/27 - Costco, Centerton Road Mount Laurel, NJ 12:00PM
• 8/4 - Citizens Bank Park 12:00PM
• 8/17 - Kid Shelleen's, Wilmington, DE 7:00PM
• 8/27 - Bookends, East Ridgewood Ave Ridgewood, NJ 7:00PM
• 9/14 - Barnes and Noble, Neshaminy Mall  Bensalem, PA 12:00PM

Buy a copy for Dallas to sign at Triumph Books, or on Amazon.
For information on the appearance at Kid Shelleen's contact Drew at drew@kidshelleens.com

Dom Brown Drops Autograph Appearance

It's official: Dom Brown is "big-time" now.

The longtime Phillies prospect, turned potential All-Star has decided his time is more valuable now than it was a few months ago when he signed an agreement to appear at Carl's Cards in Havertown on July 16th.  

Some may point out that Brown has a legitimate shot at making the National League team, and as such would be unavailable for the date.  I would agree, though after reading the statement on Carl's page (carlscards.com), it seems like finding an alternative date at the same price was not in Brown's best interests and was thus denied by the outfielder.

While I was not planning to attend the signing, I am disappointed to see the cancellation...and, worst of all, the reason for cancellation.  

In this season of underachievement, Brown has been one of the few bright spots on the Phillies.  And, after years of his own underachievement, Dom has grown into a solid player this summer and is building a little fan support as of late.  Today's events may not erode that good-will but it won't help either...

The official statement from Carl's Cards on the cancellation: 

"Due to extreme unforeseen circumstances surrounding Domonic Brown’s father, our autograph signing with Domonic Brown has been canceled. Here, at Carl’s Cards we have done everything we possibly could to make this work. Unfortunately, because of his father’s lack of cooperation we could not get him to change his mind. We have a signed contract in hand, but he has chosen to no longer honor it based on Dom’s recent All Star performance. We are just as disappointed to make this announcement as you are. We were really looking forward to this signing. If you have already purchased tickets, please notify us if you would like a refund or if you would like to exchange your ticket for an upcoming autograph signing. Please direct any and all questions/concerns to carl@carlscards.com or lauren@carlscards.com. Once again, we apologize for any inconvenience this causes, but this is completely and unfortunately out of our hands. We at Carl’s Cards hate these sorts of situations."

2013 Topps Series 2: Silk Collection Cards

Carlos Ruiz - Silk Collection #SC-125

The 2013 Topps Series 2 cards have been on the streets for a few weeks now, and I thought it would be fun to look at one of the more interesting parallels collectors are finding in packs: Silk Collection Cards.

The flagship set has been pretty strong this year - the overall design, with cool parallel card variations and plentiful relic/auto cards.  I have not bought any Series 2 yet, but have seen a lot popping up on Ebay since their release.  And, if you're looking, you've probably seen a few of the Phillies, Silk Collection Cards, too.

Only found in Hobby Boxes, the cards are limited to a production run of 50.  The design is similar to what we have seen in the past: regular size silk card, framed by white and purple.  The card images match the player's base card (unless there are some variations I have not seen).  On ebay they seem to be selling for a fair price ranging between $10-15.  A must have if f you are a collector of one of the players on the checklist.

Jonathan Papelbon - Silk Collection # SC-117

Series 2 Phillies Silk Collection Checklist:
SC - 117   Jonathan Papelbon
SC - 123   Roy Halladay
SC - 125   Carlos Ruiz
SC - 135   Ben Revere
SC - 177   Cole Hamels

My Auction Buy

Mitch Williams cleats, circa 1991

I won!

Ok, maybe that was not my exact reaction to placing the final bid on this lot Thursday night, but I was satisfied...

Up for sale in the June internet/phone auction held by Hunt Auctions, this stellar pair of Mitch Williams cleats was too tempting to pass up.  As I mentioned earlier in the week, the sale was pretty deep this month.  And, while not that valuable, these shoes are another example of the depth of material offered.

I am by no means a "Mitch Williams shoe expert", but using some clues I can date this pair to the 1991 season:

• Color - Burgundy.  Which would match the old uniforms the Phillies wore in his first season.
• Brand - Mitre.  Mitch wore several brands during his three-years in Philly, including Mitre, Pony and most famously, Reebok in 1993.
• Photographic Evidence - Pictures (see below) from that season show him wearing Mitre...maybe even these shoes!

Mitch Williams, circa 1991

Truth be told, the cleats are probably not worth more than I bid, but I have been doing a funny thing recently - measuring cost based on the statement, "it's less than a tank of gas."  Any reputable financial planner will tell you this theory is not one to live by.  Needless to say, I did employ my manic logic when placing bids on the cleats...the urge to wear them was too great to resist.

Good News: I WON!  Bad News: I'm house-bounded this weekend...

Hunt Auctions: June 2013 Internet/Phone Auction Preview

Final bids for Hunt Auction's monthly Internet/Phone auction will be made tonight, and there are several lots Phillies collectors should be watching.

This month's catalogue is full of the same type of things we've come to expect: jerseys, team-signed baseballs and Dick Perez posters.  And, while I have heard some discussion that the sale offers too much of the same (i.e. - lots with items we seen in the past), I think it may be one of the better lineups they've had over the past few months.

Here is a sampling of the Phillies memorabilia up on the block tonight:

Lot #217 - Collection of Phillies Cards

Comments:
Though they are likely displaying the best cards in this lot (which aren't really that great), the sheer volume makes this one very attractive.  The listing states there are almost 3,000 cards in the lot, with "approximately 25% dating pre-1980".  Whether you're adding to your personal collection, or breaking up the lot for resale, this lot is definitely worth watching...

Lot# 217 of the June Auction

Link to the auction listing.


Lot #577 - Original Artwork from The Sporting News (featuring Robin Roberts)

Comments:
Wow!  This 14"x19.5" drawing which was featured in an 1952 issue of The Sporting News is great!  Drawn and signed by famed cartoonist Ken Hubenthal, this lot caught my eye in my first pass through the catalogue.

The price (currently at $193) is justified, but, unfortunately, out of my price range.  Nonetheless, this is a great piece for either a Robin Roberts collector, or a baseball art lover...

Lot# 577 of the June Auction

Link to the auction listing.


Lot # 805 - Selection of Professional Model Bats

Comments:
I only have a few game used bats in my personal collection, but this lot is full of gamers from some of my all-time favorite Phillies: Lenny Dykstra, Mike Lieberthal and John Kruk.

Like the card lot discussed above, this one provides opportunities for collectors and dealers alike.  Comprised of seven pro-model bats (six of which are signed), it offers plenty of value.  In addition to Dykstra (2), Lieberthal and Kruk, there are also bats from Scott Rolen, Ruben Amaro, Jr. and Ricky Ledee.

Lot# 805 of the June Auction

Link to the auction listing.

July "Phanatic of the Month" Sneak Peek

July "Phanatic of the Month" Bobble

While I don't have one in my hands yet, I do have a picture of the July "Phanatic of the Month" bobble head (courtesy of @DrBobblesWorld on Twitter)...

In time for Independence Day, the new design has the Phanatic doing his best "Uncle Sam" - complete with top hat and colonial suit.  And with a nod to the old war posters featuring the famous patriot, the Phanatic has his index finger (does he actually have an index finger?) pointed forward as if to say, "I Want You."

Thoughts are that the new bobble should be available July 1st.  But, I'll post an update if they are out earlier...

Check out my posts on the previous Phanatic of the Month bobbleheads:

April Phanatic of the Month

May Phanatic of the Month

June Phanatic of the Month

My Ebay Watchlist: "Phantom" Memorabilia Edition

My ebay watch list is maxed-out again.  While scrolling through the list, I came across several "phantom" Phillies collectibles.  Here are a few...

1964 World Series Phantom Ticket Lot
Comments:
We've probably all seen a few phantom tickets from the 1964 World Series, you might even have one in your collection.  This lot contains four sets of four intact ticket strips (one from each Philadelphia home game), with an interesting bonus: a rain check for Game 7.  The seller's description states it's the first time they have seen the rain check - make that two of us!

1964 World Series Rain Check

BIN: $750
Link to the auction.

1976 World Series Press Pin
Comments:
1976 was the "break-through" season for the Schmidt/Carlton Phillies of the 1970s and 80s.  After adding pieces to build around the young and talented nucleus, the team finally made it to the playoffs in '76 after winning the NL East.

The pin has a pretty simple design, featuring the cherry-red script logo and "World Series" pennant wrapped around a baseball bat.  Missing the case isn't a deal breaker for me.  The pin would would look pretty nice in a display with other Phillies World Series pins...

1976 Phillies Phantom World Series Pin

BIN: $29.95
Link to the auction.

2011 Post Season Phantom Ticket Lot
Comments:
If you are a younger fan, the first two lots may not have left you bitter.  Don't feel bad, here is your chance...

2011 was a great season for the Phillies...up until the playoffs.  No doubt, all of these tickets should have been used that Fall, unfortunately, the Phils fell to the Cardinals before they could get out of the first round.  As sour as this set of tickets may make you, I think the $20 price tag is pretty decent...

Lot of Phillies, 2011 Post Season Tickets

BIN: $20
Link to the auction.

Phillies TTM: Week of 6/10/13

Two new TTM successes to report...

Larry Bowa -

Larry Bowa signed photo

This picture was from the same stash of Dick Perez pen and ink drawings that produced the Simmons and Christenson successes two weeks ago.  It was originally used in the Phillies 1976 Yearbook.  As someone noted after my last Bowa success: If you don't have a Larry Bowa autograph in your collection, you're not trying...

Ed Roebuck -

Ed Roebuck signed photo

Despite his near 100% success rate on SCN, I have not had much success with Roebuck via TTM.  In the past I have lost two different items.  And, after nearly two months out, I had pretty much written this one off, too.  Really happy to get it back...slowly closing in on this set.

My Favorite Cards: Stan Lopata

I was saddened by the news that former Phillies catcher, Stan Lopata passed away last weekend at age 87.  Lopata was one of the last remaining members of the famed 1950 Whiz Kids, and a supporter of Phillies fans young and old.

Growing up my dad helped me build a nice collection of vintage Phillies cards - piecing together his own lost collection of Curt Simmons, Richie Ashburn and Gran Hamner gems.  Stan Lopata was always held in high regard, and as a result I have several of his cards from the 1950s, too.  These cards were a great way to relate to the stories I heard from Dad about guys from this era.  Even though I never saw any of them play, there was a definite interest in their careers.

In light of his passing, I thought I would share a few of the cards that made me a collector of both Lopata and the Whiz Kids...

1956 Topps, #183
Comments: The 1956 Topps set is beautiful, and Lopata's card is no exception.  If I had to describe the posed picture, I would say: "that's what a ballplayer looks like".

1957 Topps, #119
Comments: This card is notable because it features Lopata wearing his glasses.  He was recognized as the first catcher to wear spectacles in a game.

Stan Lopata, 1957 Topps #119

1959 Topps #412

Comments: This was one of the first "vintage" Phillies cards my dad bought me.  Dad collected cards in 1959, and started my collection with those long-gone cards he remembered from his youth, including Lopata.

Years later, in my interaction with him at a signing, Lopata would challenge the story, telling me he had heard it too many time before to believe.  Strange, but true, Stan...

Stan Lopata, 1959 Topps #412

Phillies TTM: Look Who's Signing

I was scrolling through recent successes on Sports Collector's Net earlier and noticed a few interesting developments related to Phillies signers.  Because of changes in their circumstances, it appears several former players are now signing autographs via TTM.  Here they are (with working addresses):

Mariano Duncan and Greg Gross - 
A return to the bush-leagues has brought both of these former TTM regulars back into play.  While as a coach for the Dodgers, Duncan was a TTM slam-dunk...then, Joe Torre retired and with no viable home address on file, the successes dried up.  

Then we have Greg Gross.  Refusing to sign via his home address, he was a tough signer after the Phillies fired him last year.  Now coaches in the minor leagues, both are back to signing again...

Duncan:
c/o Daytona Cubs
110 E. Orange Ave.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Gross:
c/o Reno Aces
Aces Ballpark
250 Evans Avenue
Reno, NV 89501

Darin Ruf - 
Ruf was a popular target during Spring Training, but with only one reported success from Clearwater on SCN I didn't think I'd be getting a return anytime this season.  Then he was sent to Lehigh Valley and our fortunes changed...

So far this season there have been nine reported successes for Ruf - three in the past week.  Definitely worth a try (if you haven't already)...

c/o Lehigh Valley IronPigs
Coca-Cola Park
1050 IronPigs Way
Allentown, PA 18109

Ron Gant - 
I can easily forget the years when Gant roamed left field at Veterans Stadium.  In his defense, the entire team was completely boring and altogether forgettable.

Historically Gant has done very little TTM, and his overall success rate is currently 57%.  But, since his new gig as co-host of "Good Day Atlanta", the successes have been coming in at a record clip.  Given his record, there is no guarantee he will keep signing.  If you are in need of a Ron Gant autograph, I recommend trying this address soon:

c/o Good Day Atlanta
Fox 5 Atlanta
1551 Briarcliff Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30306

Phillies Father's Day Hat SGAs

The Phillies have more times than not, celebrated Father's Day with a spectacular, corporate-sponsored hat giveaway.  Over the years, these offerings have ranged from odd ("Safari Hat") to down-right ugly (name your corduroy hat here).  With the day upon us once again, I thought it would be interesting to take a look at some interesting designs from yesteryear...


Richie Ashburn "Jeff" Hat #2 (1985)

Richie Ashburn "Jeff" Hat - 1985 SGA

If you ever doubted Richie Ashburn's popularity, all you need to know is that his trademark "Jeff" hat was used as a Father's Day promotion twice - 1981 and 1985.  The 1985 version (shown here) is maroon, while the 1981 version used the "cherry red" color of the day.  I wonder if they ever considered "Ashburn Pipe Day"...


1950s Logo (2012)

Phillies 2012 Father's Day SGA hat

A common problem with these Father's Day giveaways is that there are very few places you will actually feel comfortable wearing one of them.  I went to this game last year, and have found that this hat is good for things like mowing the grass or going to the shore.  Try it next time!


Bucket Hat (1977)

Phillies 1977 Father's Day Hat SGA

Through the years there have been many Phillies bucket hat giveaways - but, this one from 1977 may be the first.  Cherry red with a bold white stripe and the classic script team logo - any father would be proud to wear it.  In all seriousness though, it probably wasn't too bad for its day...

My Collecting Story: 1983 Topps Mike Schmidt Blank Back

I was digging through cards last weekend and stumbled onto an unusual one from my past, a blank-back version of Mike Schmidt's 1983 Topps card...

While I wasn't spoiled growing up, my parents did a good job of encouraging my desire to collect baseball cards.  It was not uncommon for my dad to surprise me with a pack of cards or make an impromptu trip to the card shop.  My main collecting focus was that particular year's Topps set and Mike Schmidt cards.

I got the blank-back card sometime in the late-80s at the Home Plate card shop, where we were regular customers.  At the time I figured we were buying a standard issue card from the set.  And, it wasn't until we got in the car that I noticed the blank-back.  Being the honest people we are, my dad and I went back into the shop to let the owner know about the error.  He told us the card was a production mistake, that he had accidently put out for sale - thinking it was a standard card.  Rich (the dealer) was pretty honest, too - and said "a sale is a sale."  The card has been in my collection since...

The blank-back cards are a rare variation that are known to have been an issue with Topps cards from the 1970s and early 1980s.  At the time, Topps would willingly replace the "error" cards mailed to them with standard printed cards.  Despite their irregular nature, the blank-backs do not generally carry a premium price tag.  I recently saw another 1983 Topps Mike Schmidt sell on ebay for $8.

Pete Rose Is Coming! Pete Rose Is Coming!

Pete Rose

Although it is not unusual to see former Phillie Pete Rose signing autographs in the area, the circumstances around his appearances this weekend make it a story.

Originally, Rose was scheduled to be a special guest at Coca-Cola Park, as part of the IronPigs Father's Day promotion.  As soon as the appearance was announced, Major League Baseball stepped in to put the kibosh on it.  Because of his current "in eligible" status, the all-time hit leader cannot appear at any Major League, or Major League affiliate games.

Without getting into the whole ban/no ban discussion, I will say these rules seem to be applied liberally by the Commissioner's office.  Not sure why it is OK for him to help induct Mike Schmidt into the Reading Hall of Fame, or appear at the All-Star Game (in 1999), and not to throw out he first pitch on Sunday...but, that is why I'm not Commissioner.

Anyway, with his weekend freed up, Pete lined up two area signings:

County Line Fence, Warrington, PA from 1-4
This is a free signing, which we have seen Rose doing more often recently.  I find it interesting, considering he can still get a line of people to pay top-dollar for his signature.  If you are going, take note that County Line has said Pete will on sign sponsor photos.

Sports Vault, King of Prussia Mall from 5-7
This IS NOT a free signing (you will be asked to pay the aforementioned top-dollar).  Of note here is the $59 price tag for a "photo opportunity".  I have heard of a "no photo" policy, but can't remember a "pay-for-photo" policy.

Maje McDonnell's Flannel Jersey Re-appears

I couldn't help but notice that former Phillies coach, Maje McDonnell's 1952 home duds had resurfaced on ebay over the past couple weeks.  The listing stood out because it's "original" sale by Paragon Auctions (in March 2012) stood out.   

McDonnell was a native Philadelphian, and long-time Phillies employee, serving the team in one role or another from 1947 to 2009. And while vintage flannels like this one often earn dollars on nostalgia alone, he didn't play for the team and had little significance to their on-field play.  At the time, the final sale price seemed high...

Original Listing:

Maje McDonnell 1952 Home Jersey Sold: March 2012

Sold by Paragon Auctions (March 2012)

Final bid: $847

Link to full listing

Resale Listing on Ebay:

Maje McDonnell 1952 Home Jersey Sold May 2013

Sold on May 25, 2013

Final bid: $676

Link to full listing

Phillies TTM: Week of 6/3/13

June started off pretty well, with three new successes...

Mel Clark

Mel Clark - 1950s-era Phillies photo

I have started working on the 1950s-era Phillies photo again.  After starting with the remaining 1950 Whiz Kids, I put it aside for awhile.  I got re-inspired after seeing a number of responses from players in this era on SCN and decided to continue on.  Clark played Outfield for the Phillies from 1951-1955, splitting his time between right and left field.

Successful address: 270 Home Run Dr. West Columbia, WV 25287

Larry Christenson

Larry Christenson

signed photo

Pulled from the Dick Perez archive, this drawing was used in the Phillies 1976 Yearbook.  Perez has a number of these drawings up on his site.  I borrowed this one and a few others to send out for signing purposes.

Successful address: 1465 Le Boutiller Rd.  Malvern, PA 19355

Curt Simmons

Curt Simmons

signed photo

I know...I don't need anymore Curt Simmons signatures.  I just couldn't resist the opportunity to have him sign this picture...

Another drawing from Dick Perez's site, I have not been able to identify which publication (if any) it was used in.  Let me know if you have seen it before...

Successful address: 200 Park Road  Ambler, PA 19002

June "Phanatic of the Month" Bobble Head

June, Father's Day-themed, Phanatic of the Month

(photo via @drbobblesworld - Twitter)

Last weekend the Phillies released the June "Phanatic of the Month" bobble head.  The third of twelve limited edition offerings, this month's figurine takes on a Father's Day theme with the Phanatic decked out in interesting golf attire.  

As with the two previous figurines, the June bobble stands atop a gold Phanatic-head base.  And at this point, we are probably safe to assume this will continue throughout the entire line.  Also continued is the limited production run of 150 figurines.  There were a few remaining at the Majestic Store when I stopped in last weekend, but I understand they are now sold out.  Note: If you missed them the first time, the going rate on ebay for one is $100.

Check out my posts on the previous Phanatic of the Month bobbleheads:

April Phanatic of the Month

May Phanatic of the Month

Up next is July...

July 2013,

Phanatic of the Month bobble

One Million Bobble Heads and Counting...

Carlos Ruiz Bobble Head

Last night the Phillies handed out their one-millionth bobble head.  And, to ceremoniously mark the occasion, one lucky fan was presented a gold-painted, signed figurine of Carlos Ruiz (by the man himself).  In lieu of balloons and confetti, I thought I would commemorate the occasion by looking back at three of the most creative bobble heads given out by the Phillies.

Randy Wolf - 2004

Randy Wolf bobble head

Complete with 'wolf-arm', the Randy Wolf bobble is more like what we might see from a minor-league affiliate - but that's what makes it so great.  This release perfectly represents what the Phillies marketing team was doing at the time: both creative and original (i.e. - there is no Wolf version #2).

Harry Kalas/Richie Ashburn - 2002

Kalas/Ashburn Dual Bobble Head

I'm sure there were dual-bobble heads produced somewhere before the Harry/Richie in 2002, but it was a new phenomenon for me.  For the most part, bobble head giveaways had been a distinction held for players, and up to that point, one player at a time.  This bobble broke the mold, opening the door for several other duos, including current radio broadcast partners Scott Franzke and Larry Andersen.

Carlos Ruiz (Version #1) - 2010

Carlos Ruiz Bobble Head (version 1)

Chooch's first turn as SGA was a nod back to the aforementioned "marketing golden age", mimicking the Mike Lieberthal "removable mask"figure.  I liked the fresh take on an old idea, and it was one of the first I can remember to have an action pose (instead of a standard hitting or pitching one).

2013 Topps Archives Disappointments

I posted my review of the 2013 Topps Archives set early today, and overall I am pretty excited to start adding the new cards to my collection.  The set is not without its flaws, though...Here are a few to prove my point...

Fan Favorites - Darren Daulton

2013 Topps Archives Darren Daulton

As excited as I was to see Juan Samuel and Larry Bowa as part of the Fan Favorites this year, I was equally disappointed to see Darren Daulton (again).  It's nothing personal against Dutch, I just would like to have seen a "new" popular player from the past featured as part of the 50-card short print.  It is Daulton's third inclusion as a "Fan Favorite", following 2003 and 2004.

Mike Schmidt x10?

2013 Topps Archives Mike Schmidt base

If you think Topps loves Darren Daulton, it doesn't come close to the affection they are showing Schmidtty.  There are 10 Schmidt cards sprinkled throughout the set.  As a collector of his cards, it is a great opportunity to grow my collection, but I would gladly give up one or two of these cards to have a different Phillie represented in the set.  Also, it was disappointing to see the crappy, retread, mid-80s photo on his base card (in the 1972 Topps design).  Why does Topps keep using this picture?

Heavy Metal Autograph Cards

I just don't understand why these cards are included.  No idea.