Card fact: This is the second-to-last Topps card of Leo Cardenas issued during his career. Topps listed Cardenas by his nickname "Chico" during the first part of his career. He was "Chico Cardenas" on his cards from 1961 through 1969. Then, Topps listed him as "Leo Cardenas" from the 1970 set through 1976.
What I thought about this card then: Never saw it. It was decades before I knew who Cardenas was. I'm still not entirely clear.
What I think about this card now: The batting cage is the star of the show in this photo, isn't it?
Other stuff: Cardenas was a starting shortstop mostly with the Reds and Twins. He still has a connection to the city of Cincinnati, making regular appearances at club functions. He enjoyed his best seasons with the Reds and was a four-time all-star there. He won a Gold Glove in 1965.
Cardenas was traded to the Twins on Nov. 21, 1968. He played there through the 1971 season and was a regular part of the Minnesota A.L. West champion teams of the late '60s/early '70s. He closed out his career with the Angels, Indians and Rangers.
Back facts: Pretzel Pezzulo (not "Pretzels") was a pitcher for the Phillies in 1935 and 1936. All but one of his 42 games pitched came in 1935 when he was 3-5 in 84 innings pitched.
Other blog stuff: The pink-yellow border combo is now just one card away of catching the orange-brown combo for the No. 1 spot. Can you feel the excitement?
Sure you can.
Yes, the batting cage is the star, but Leo looks pretty happy in that shot. I'm probably wrong, but it seems like it's been a while since we've seen a card back filled up like that. I wish the Rangers would play a game in those uniforms. I like the old Ranger look.
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