He was a catching prospect then. Just a 20-year-old kid from Portland, OR who seemed to have a little pop in his bat. Forty-five years ago today, as the Atlanta Braves played out the string of what would be four straight last place finishes in the National League West, Dale Murphy made his major league debut. After flying out in his first at-bat against the … [Read more...] about Catch This: Young Dale Murphy’s Back-to-Back Rookie Cards
1977
Ramblings: O-Pee-Chee and Free Agency in the 70s
It’s the season for mammoth new free agent contracts in baseball. Zack Greinke is a Diamondback and David Price is a member of the Boston Red Sox after signing a contract which might be worth upwards of $215 million. The reason I say “might be” is there is an opt-out clause after the first three seasons. However, if the contract goes the full length he will earn more money … [Read more...] about Ramblings: O-Pee-Chee and Free Agency in the 70s
Sweet Memories Keep The Bird Flying High
Which rookie pitcher had the biggest impact in baseball history? Some people would say Fernando Valenzuela for how he inspired “Fernandomania” and also helped to bring a new group of fans to attend baseball games. Going to a game during his 1981 rookie season was more of an event then it even was a game. While he was a good pitcher for the rest of his career, he never … [Read more...] about Sweet Memories Keep The Bird Flying High