Friday, February 5, 2010

#105 - Buzz Capra


Card fact:
This is Buzz Capra's first card, even though he pitched in 24 games in 1973, 14 games in 1972 and had been in the league since 1971.

What I thought about this card then: Didn't see it. The first card of Capra's that I saw was his 1976 Topps card. That is the case for a number of cards, probably because I bought twice the number of cards in '76 that I did in '75.

What I think about this card now: Capra looks a tad excited in this photo. The close-up view is a bit alarming.

Other stuff: Capra featured one of the best nicknames in baseball (his real name is Lee), and is one of those famous one-year-wonder pitchers that baseball historians seem to love so much. Capra's best year, by a million miles, was 1974 when he went 16-8 for the Braves -- his first year for Atlanta -- and won the National League ERA title. He was Pitcher of the Month in June of 1974, made the All-Star team, and was part of a memorable year in Atlanta, which also included a home run hit by some dude named Hank.

Capra got hurt the following year and never won more than six games in a season for the rest of his career, which was done in 1978.

Back facts: Capra was purchased from the Mets, who didn't have room for the player on their vaunted pitching staff.

Other blog stuff: Speaking of Hank Aaron, today is his 76th birthday. Only 555 more cards until we get to yours, Hank.

4 comments:

Play at the Plate said...

Buzz Capra...sounds like a mob name. At least he always has that 16-8 season to hold on too..plus the ERA title. Happy Birthday Hank!

Captain Canuck said...

you realize that Hank will have had another birthday long before we get to his card, right?

night owl said...

Not if I pick up the pace, Captain.

Matt Runyon said...

I should get to Mr. Aaron in the 1976 blog before his next birthday.