MLB Showdown Custom Cards
Ted Willaims 1957- Another player has commissioned some custom cards and this lot has a bulk slugging outfielders. For our On-base junkies none more impressive than Teddy Ballgame from 1957. He could have three 12 on-base cards in his career and this would be his last. As an aging slugger he lost what little speed he had by this point. That would not have helped his already average defense. What he still had was a great eye ad an ability to put the ball in play with authority. He is tough to fit into a salary cap team because he won't drive people in and he won't score himself. He will post impressive personal numbers but at the expense of the team.
Frank Robinson 1966- Frank Robinson could hit the ball hard consistently. He also had better legs than someone like Manny Ramirez, who he could be compared to on a number of levels. In his 21 year career he would lead the 3 triple crown categories only once. All three times would be in 1966 for the triple-crown. His 49 homers would usually be near the top of the league. His 122 RBI would also typically win a league. His .316 batting average would be considered low for a batting title, however that is usually how triple crowns are won and don't take anything away from this magical year. He is expensive but can do everything you would want with the bat.
Johnny Bench 1970- Can I say I love all custom cards that are not 13,12,11 or 10 OB. This Johnny Bench card shows a player who was amazing in some areas and average in others. First things first, Johnny could throw people out. He caught 48% of would be base stealers. He also hit 45 homers to lead the National League. A legitimate power hitting all-star catcher who does not suffer on defense is a real treat. This card is worth getting. Stomach the 8 and drop bombs.
Ernie Banks 1958- Another none +10 OB custom card, so I am excited. One of the great power hitting shortstops of all time. In 1958 the wind must have been blowing out at Wrigley all year. Banks hit 47 homers, 7 triples and 23 doubles. He also committed 32 errors which isn't Honus Wagner territory but still hard to imagine that many. Many of you won't like the SS+0 and will pass up on the chance to do great things at shortstop. I know there are a half dozen great A-rod cards in print already but I might think about playing with Mr. Cub.
Bob Feller 1946- Bob Feller like many guys from his day was a horse. He pitched an amazing 371 innings in 1946. He also gave up the most hits and walks that year while facing the most batters. Was he great this year? Of course. Was he something amazingly special in regards to effectiveness? I don't think so. He had a good but not amazing 1.158 WHIP. That was good for its day but not unheard of. I think this is an effective card which could get a lot of use for people playing by NL rules.
That Frank Robinson card is an absolute beast, sign me up!
ReplyDeleteAnother great collection of customs. First off, this Teddy Ballgame is good but not enough contact or bombs on his chart to be worth the points in a cap league. Might lead a league in walks and OBP but won't win you enough games. The Frank Robinson is a more effective version of the 2011 Joey Bats. Love the high contact and the solid speed. The Johnny Bench card is the best catcher I can remember not named Pudge Rodriguez. I'd bat him 4th or 5th and drop bombs. Ernie Banks reminds me of the Honus Wagner you created except with power. On a team not built around ground ball pitching you could easily feature him as your cleanup hitter. As for Bob Feller, have seen the Hall of Famer in person at spring training games and have his autograph, so I'm pleased with his fine card. Not Pedro or Nolan Ryan but a horse nonetheless.
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