I'm sure I was one of many who were swept up in the drama and excitement of the 2025 MLB Playoffs - and a World Series for the ages. I hadn't watched much baseball over the past couple of seasons, but seeing the Jays and Mariners battle it out for the AL crown had me intrigued.
And while the Jays ended up losing the WS in the most unlikeliest of ways, I can't help but feel excited and optimistic for the new season. I'm looking forward to what 2026 will deliver.
As I was sifting through some cards on my desk this weekend, I came across one of my favorite pieces of cardboard of all time. It brought a smile to my face and reminded me of the beauty and history of the great game of baseball.
I love this card! The photo just has a majestic feel to it - you can see a ton of detail, but the quality has that vintage vibe. A mighty swing of the bat from one of the greatest pitchers who ever lived. That unlikely combination is what I enjoy most about this simple base card.
I first saw this image when I was on the Topps Bunt digital card app. I thought it was a mockup just for the online platform. When I found a copy of the card in person...it was an instabuy. That sucker was coming home with me and into the collection.
In his 12-year baseball career, Koufax had 778 AB and notched 75 hits for a 0.97 BA. Obviously, he was never known for this offensive skills at the plate.
But that swing, that pose, is just drilled in my brain. The glare of concentration, the clean follow through (two hands on the bat...no gloves back then). The batting helmet without the ear protection...very clean. The 3/4 baseball shirt that we all had as kids (mine had the Van Halen logo on it. ha ha). The power in his legs...and let's admire those cleats (and the stirrups!!). The fans...many of them wearing sunglasses, absolutely focused on his efforts. This is a stunner of a photo.
For a player who was absolutely dominating the game in his era, this card represents a period of time that I know little about...but appreciate a great deal. Like I said, smile to my face.
And just a couple weeks into the season, I'm already excited for the summer months of baseball.
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