TTM Success - Brian Roberts

A private signing with Brian Roberts popped up recently which allowed me to dip into the PC of him for some cool cards to add to the autograph album.  The above 2005 Bowman Heritage mahogany parallel turned out nicely.  I've been wanting to add one of these to the album, so this was a great opportubity.

I also got a 2009 UD SP Legendary Cuts (left) and a 2005 UD Ultimate Collection signed.  Both of these are really great, and we're good choices to add to the album. 

Roberts (b. 1977) was my PC player after Cal Ripken retired.  I had taken a buddy to an Orioles game in 2005, and Roberts hit a walkoff homer in the 11th inning off of the Yankees.  I had called it, also.  So, it was o ly natural to build a PC of him after that moment.

Roberts played in the majors from 2001 to 2014 for the Orioles and Yankees.  He had 1,527 hits, 97 home runs and a .276 batting average.  He led the league in doubles twice (2004 and 2009) and led the league in stolen bases in 2007.  He was an All Star in 2005 and 2007.  He finished 18th in the AL MVP race in 2005.  He appeared on the 2020 Hall of Fame ballot, but received no votes.

I mailed to the signing on May 25 and got the cards back on August 23, for a 90-day TAT.  I paid a fee of $30/card.

Graphing Recap of April 2019 Yankees at Orioles

It all started prior to Fan Fest when Ticketmaster oversold the vouchers for Eddie Murray and Beooks Robinson.  I was able to get Chris and I into the Eddie Session, but my good friend, Gerard, was denied, even though it said he had gotten his vouchers in time.  So, he was given the option to see Eddie either on April 6, or June 15.  Gerard couldn't really go either way, so he left it up to me if I wanted to try to use the session.  I definitely wouldn't be able to go on June 15, so I made some arrangements, and was able to go this past Saturday. 

I was really worried, because I came down with some kind of bug on Tuesday, which put me out of work on Wednesday.  Whatever it was seemed to be on the way out by Wood Ducks Opening Night on Thursday, so I was all set to go on Friday up to Baltimore.  Only thing is, that sick day and the Wood Ducks opener left me with very little time to prep for the trip.

I had already sat aside some Orioles because of Fan Fest, and added more to that pile when Topps and Heritage came out.  Then, I grabbed some Yankees from those boxes, and happened upon a couple on my desk, and tossed them in a box.  All of my card prepping took place in the hotel room late at night Friday and early Saturday morning.

I had decided early on that I wasn't going to get Eddie on a ball, because I didn't want to feel like I had a duplicate or want to sell something.  I originally wanted him on the 1988 Topps Record Breakers card, but at the 11th hour, I remembered that I had the above 2010 Topps Short Print, so I decided that was going to be the one I got signed.

Even though the signature is a little tough to see on the card, I was glad I chose it.  Eddie held the card for a bit and said that he had never seen one like it before.  I told him it was a 2010 Topps SP and he said that he thought by looking at the yellow railings on the card that it was taken in Chicago (at old Comiskey).  He remarked on the road gray jersey, as well.  So, the card definitely got his attention.

The biggest moment of the trip came right after Chris and I finished dinner on Friday night, however.  We had eaten dinner downtown, after walking from our hotel.  I had realized on the ride up that I had forgotten my photo edges for Chris's autograph book (and also my laptop, hence, no blog posts this past weekend).  I texted my friend Michael to see if he had any photo edges.  About 15 minutes later, I got a phone call...

Michael needed to know where I was because he had a graphing tip for me that I couldn't pass up.  He had seen Aaron Judge (and Brett Gardner, Clint Frazier and Taylor Wade) go into a restaurant not too far from where I was.  I had to go to my hotel, though, and get my cards, and meet Michael where he was.  I also had to pray that the foursome were slow eaters.  I got to the room and grabbed my cards.  I threw some baby powder on the Aaron Judge card that I thought would look best and put the snap case of cards in my shirt pocket (since I had left from work to head north) and made the mile-long trek across the Inner Harbor area of Baltimore to try and see if I could get Aaron Judge.

Chris actually got Judge first.  He is working on the All Star stamped 2018 Topps set, so he presented Judge with all 4 cards that he pulled out of his box and asked him straight up "how many will you sign?"  Judge told him one, so Chris got one of the cards signed.  I had chosen the 1983 Chrome shimmer that I had gotten out of last year's Silver Packs, and I am so glad that I did.  It turned out amazingly.  I also commented on his height, since I am about a foot shorter than he is (he's 6' 7").  He was so nice, and I was so happy to be able to say that I had gotten him.  Huge credit to Michael.

The next day, prior to the Eddie meeting, Chris and I made our way to the player's parking lot/entrance at Camden Yards.  We saw a bunch of players going in, but very few stopped.  I was able to get Tommy Kahnle on the above Yankee team card from 2018 Topps.

I was also able to get Renato Nunez on the above 2013 Pro Debut that I have had in my box forever.  I was glad to get it signed, and he was really cool.

At the very last minute, before Chris and I left the house, I was thrashing through card boxes, trying to find my Brian Roberts PC.  I had seen that he was on commentary for the series, so I figured I should try to get him on a couple cards if I could.

I liked the white bordered 2006 Turkey Red and then realized I had a duplicate of the 2006 Upper Deck Special F/X and had to get that signed.  You see, back in the day, we didn't have Topps Now that would come out and possibly have the game you went to depicted on a card.  You had to be REALLY lucky.  Well, 2006 Upper Deck actually had a card of the game that I had gone to that got me back into card collecting.  I had taken a friend to Baltimore and that day, I had bought Roberts's jersey.  In extras, he came to the plate and I told my friend that Roberts was going to hit a walkoff homer.  He did, and later that night some Yankee fans bought us drinks.  Now I have a signed version of the card and was able to relay that story to Roberts as he was signing.  He was still really cool, as he had been every other time I had met him.

Prior to the start of the game, the Orioles had a Celebration of Life for the late Frank Robinson.  In attendance were his wife and daughter, as well as several of his former teammates, contemporaries and players he had managed.  Speeches were given by Jim Palmer, Boog Powell and Brooks Robinson.  I also saw Cal and Eddie in attendance.

The Orioles lost the game, but it was really close.  Miguel Castro gave up a three-run home run to Clint Frazier that put the Yankees ahead.  I was able to witness Judge hit two home runs in the innings prior.  This season's Orioles aren't expected to do much of anything, but I was pleasantly surprised to see them hang tough against the Evils (and Judge).

After the end of the 8th inning, Chris and I made our way back to the player entrance and got there right as the game was letting out.  I noticed that Frank's wife and daughter were standing outside, so I approached them.  I thanked Mrs. Robinson for being so kind to me at the National back in July.  She seemed to remember me, thanked me and introduced me to her daughter.  I told the both of them that I really respected Frank, and that Chris and I had mourned for their loss.  They teared up, each shook my hand and thanked me, and Mrs. Robinson pulled Chris in for a hug.  I was really glad that I took the time to approach them.  I feel like although I was a bit awkward, they must have appreciated the gesture.

 We got back to graphing, and I was able to get Jim Palmer outside.  I complimented him on his speech about Frank, to which he replied "my wife didn't like it".  He was really nice, and didn't call us collectors this time.  Michael was there and told me that I would be able to get Ken Singleton, as well.  I was upset that I had forgotten to bring his cards, but then remembered that I had brought the entire 1991 Crown Orioles set, since I knew about the Frank memorial ahead of time.  Singleton would be in there, duh.  So, I was able to get that card signed.  Having that set really came in handy.

I am really terrible with player's faces, and usually have to sponge off of other graphers to be able to tell who's who.  Luckily, I recognized Paul Fry, myself, since I had a nice conversation with him at the National.  He signed two of these 2019 Heritage cards for me, and one for Chris.  I think future Fan Fests will help me complete the other guys on the card.

We waited around for quite a while after the game ended and were about to leave when we saw Aroldis Chapman come outside to text his ride.  He barely acknowledged us, but we were able to get his autograph/  I was super happy to be able to say that I got him and Judge in the same trip.  This was really one of my most successful graphing trips to Baltimore that wasn't a paid Fan Fest.

So, thank you, Michael for all of the help with the tips, thank you Gerard for hooking me up with the tickets.  Thank you Ticketmaster for screwing up in the first place, but most of all, thank you, Chris, for coming along and only complaining minimally (and when I couldn't really hear you anyway).  I had a wonderful bonding time with my son, and I know he had a blast as well.  I also think it is safe to say that the both of us are Aaron Judge fans, and that is ok.

Care Package From Nick H.

Still catching up on posts, here are a few cards that I got in a care package from my friend, Nick H. way before Christmas.  Nick is a really good guy who I have been talking to for a while now.  He sent me a few Orioles, highlighted by this 2006 Flair Showcase Brian Roberts relic.

Nick also included this Melvin Mora relic from 2008 Upper Deck.  I'll have to organize my Orioles box soon and add these to the collection.

Thanks for the care package, Nick!

COMC PC Pickups

I finally sold the 2010 Topps Pro Debut Henry Ramos printing plate on my COMC account, so that afforded me the chance to try to get a deal on a 2009 Bowman Sterling Nolan Reimold gold refractor auto.  I was able to make an offer, which the seller accepted, so now, I have this beauty.  It is numbered 43/50.  Believe me when I say, it looks so much better in person.  I have been wanting one of these for a long time, and now I have one.  I got it for a steal at $6.50.

I had enough store credit for another card, plus the $3.00 flat rate shipping, so I picked up this 2005 UD Ultimate Brian Roberts numbered 41/50 for $2.74.  I also got one of my friends a card as well, and then paid the $3 to have all of the cards shipped my way.

I hadn't bought off of COMC in a while, and I haven't sent a shipment in for sale in a while either.  My sales have significantly decreased on there, so I think it is about time I added some more inventory from some of the stuff I have been taking to card shows that isn't moving like I would have liked.

COMC is a great tool, but you have to work to keep your inventory updated and your prices right.  I still enjoy it, and have done well in finding nice parallels, like the cards shown above.

September 2015 Raleigh Card Show Recap

I don't use my total sales at my only gauge for how successful a card show was for me.  If that were the case, this show would be measured as a failure.  I didn't sell enough to break even at this show, but luckily, I sold some stuff to some of my friends online, and that put me back in the black.  Some other things I was able to take away from this show was that I passed out some more of my blog business cards.  I had a couple guys add me to their Instagram pages for future trades.  I also had a bunch of return customers at this show, meaning that people liked me enough to come back by and say hello.

Another thing I look at is what was I able to find at the show?  Well, I didn't really feel like a lot of things jumped out at me, but when I got home and looked through the cards I got, I was really happy to see what I had.  I also used this show as a kickoff to Christmas shopping for some of my fellow collectors.

The above 1980 Exhibits Jimmie Foxx only set me back $2.00.  It scanned really nice, and looks pretty cool in person.  I have quite a few of these oversized cards, and I don't really know how I want to display or store them.  They are wedged against the side of my desk, behind a case of CD-Rs.  Gotta find a better spot for them, but at least they're safe.

Hey, look, I added a new Cal Ripken to my collection!  This is a 2015 National exclusive from the Leaf VIP party.  Apparently, my VIP pass didn't get me in.  That may have been because we were starving at the end, and went to eat some Chicago pizza.

This card, which it's hard to tell, is an acetate.  I really love these cards, and am so happy I was able to get this for $2.00.

I found a nice surprise in a bargain bin for relics and autos at the same place I got the acetate Ripken.  This Tyler Wilson Team USA card cost me only $3.00 and is the first card I have seen of him.  He has been shaky so far, but I see a lot of promise in this kid.  I hope he can harness his talent and become a successful MLB pitcher.  I needed to find some new Orioles to get behind, and I feel like Wilson may be the guy I can start to PC.  It is also kind of cool starting a PC from nothing.  I mean, there are NO base cards or anything laying around in my collection.  I owned nothing of him, and now we start with this really cool relic auto.

I probably had this 1965 Topps Embossed Brooks Robinson somewhere, but for the price of $1.00, I added this one.  It'll go in my Brooks box, and if I have another, I will likely see it when I look in there.  Regardless, these are pretty cool cards.  They don't hold up all that great over the years, but they still are a cool look at early insert cards from Topps.

This is another card that I might have in my collection somewhere.  I picked it up anyway for $8.00 because the guy was nice enough to point it out to me and it is also ORANGE!  I figured that he was having as rough a show as I was, so I went ahead and bought it.  The card is numbered 70/99 and looks pretty awesome.

I had a few people offer up this Chris Davis relic card from 2015 Allen & Ginter, but I held out.  I hoped that I could find one cheaper, and I did.  I got this in a bulk relic deal, and am really pleased that I finally knocked it off the list.

Another part of the bulk relic deal was a card I didn't expect to find, and had I not had my glasses on, I may have missed it.  This is a 2002 US SPX Team USA Winning Materials dual relic of Adam Everett and Brian Roberts.

I actually met a couple kids at the show today who knew Roberts's dad.  That was a cool story to hear.  My Roberts PC has been mothballed, so I will have to dig it out, and add this card to it.  I don't anticipate too many more cards being added to it, so I probably ought to add him to my spreadsheet and go for a few rainbows.

So, in all, while my sales were the worst I have had, I would still call this a successful card show.  I didn't blow my budget, I made a few new friends, kept some returning customers, and added some cool cards to the collection.  Not too bad for two days work.

Instagram Deal With Evan - 2009 Topps Unique Orioles Triple Relic

The crease at the bottom of the card notwithstanding, is this not an awesome card?  I had no idea it existed until I saw it posted on Instagram.  The page was a kid named Evan, who's screen name is "alldaycards".  I bought the card off of Evan for $8 shipped and it came well packaged in a bubble mailer.  So, the crease at the bottom was definitely not Evan's fault.

The card would look amazing if it was triple signed as well.  I'm sure they exist.  I'll have to go back and look at some and see what I can find.

This card will go nicely into my Roberts PC that had been stashed away, since no new cards would be issued for him.

I appreciate the deal, Evan, and I hope we can make more in the future!

Christmas Gift From Jet - 2006 Flair Showcase Brian Roberts Auto

I got this Brian Roberts autographed card from 2006 Flair Showcase as a Christmas gift from my good buddy, Jet.  I've been helping him this past year with advice, trades, set building, you name it.  Jet is a really cool guy, and already has an amazing collection at such a young age.  I guess it's safe to say, I'm a bit envious of the guy.  I mean come on, he has a Hank Aaron rookie (part of his complete set of 1954 Topps).

Jet always seeks me out for help, and has tole me before that he looks up to me.  He just recently started collecting signed baseballs by Hall of Famers because I inspired him to do so.  I don't really set out to inspire anyone.  I just enjoy what I enjoy, and like to share it with you all.  The fact that this kid from Oklahoma is inspired by anything I do it amazing to me.  I'm happy to know that young folks out there want to enjoy this same hobby that I enjoy.

So, thanks for this awesome Christmas present, my friend.  I hope you, your mom, and the rest of your family had a great Christmas.  You're a great guy, and definitely deserve it.  Thanks, Jet!

Trade With Blogger Tim

I made a trade recently with a new trade partner through the blogosphere.  His name is Tim, and his blog is "I Love The Smell of Cardboard In The Morning,"  I recommend you check it out.

Tim approached me after taking a look at my needs list for 2014 Topps Chrome.  Tim knocked a bunch of those out, 15 to be exact.

It's the extra stuff that Tim included that really blew me away.  Beginning with the above Brooks Robinson auto, and continuing on with the stuff I'll show below, Tim went above and beyond!

I love the color parallels, as always, and this blue 2014 Chrome Manny Machado doesn't disappoint. Numbered 110/199, this is new to my collection.

I haven't been through my Roberts PC recently, so I need to see if I had this one yet, or not, but I'm still glad to have it.  Any time you can add a gold parallel to your PC is a good day.  This one is numbered 39/50.

Finally, Tim included this JJ Hardy relic from 2013 Ginter.  I don't have very many JJ cards as it is, so this one is especially welcome.  JJ has become a great player for the O's and I'm very glad that he signed his extension this offseason.

Thanks so much for the deal, Tim.  I'mm continue to keep an eye out for cards for you, so we can do this again!

A Look Back at 2014 and my Collecting Goals for 2015

Well, 2014 is now over and I can reflect on the year that was, as far as my collection and blog are concerned.

I met my goals for 2014 as follows:

• I started the year with 96 Hall of Fame signed baseballs and ended the year with 107.  My goal was to add 10 baseballs and I exceeded that by 1 ball.  I added huge names like Mickey Mantle (ball #100) and Sandy Koufax, and I also added a tough to get name in Joe Gordon.
• As you can see above, I met my goal of making ball #100 something special.  I'm glad I have Mantle out of the way.  I doubt I will get as huge a name this year, unless something falls into my lap.  We'll have to see what unfolds this year.
• I met my goal of completing at least one of the Topps sets from 1993 to 1997 by completing 1993 and 1996.
• I didn't really add my 1993 to 1997 set needs to my wishlist, but I still consider that goal met, as I am one card away from finishing 1997.  I will add 1994, probably later today.  I haven't even started 1995, so that wasn't a real goal.
• I made significant progress with my 1948 Bowman, 1959 Topps and 1969 Topps sets.  I am just about done with 1948 and 1959 and knocked out some key cards in 1969.  I have knocked off cards here and there from my 2013 Emerald set, and I still intend on completing it.  My friends from Instagram have helped tremendously on that one.
• I did knock off 5 cards from my Top Ten Wishlist.  I will be adding new cards to the list today, some harder to get than others.  The cards I got this year were: 1948 Bowman Yogi Berra, 1952 Topps Bob Feller, 1953 Topps Satchel Paige, 1969 Topps Reggie Jackson RC and 1969 Topps Nolan Ryan.
• I did continue the relationships that I had established in 2013 and added a ton more.  In no particular order, I added new regular trading partners: Max, Noah, Caleb, Scott F., Anders, Josh, Kaleb, James, Michael A., Sam, Jet, Michael S., Drew (ultimatecards_), Joey, Carson, Jackson, Kyle, Jake, Blaine, Robert, Ben/Jake, Jack, and a ton more that I am forgetting at the moment, sorry.  I have filled my side desk up with note cards with everyone's name on them so I can continue to add to piles and keep track of who is getting what.  I have also started a notebook for trades so I no longer lose track of what someone offered me and what I offered in return.
• Finally, I feel like I was able to continue to provide good information on cards, the Orioles and the Hall of Fame.  I know a lot of my posts this year were about trades and incoming mail, but I still feel like I have thrown in the occasional tidbit about a past player or something to that effect.

Let's take a look at a few key moments from the blog for 2014:

• I listed my goals for 2014 on January 1 and as stated above, I did pretty well on them.
• On January 18, I was able to finally show my collection to my dad.  He was in town visiting with my mom and finally had time to take a look at my card room, my signed baseballs and other things I had posted.  I got a call from him a few days later, and he said that he had been thinking about my collection all that week and how impressed he was by it.  That totally justified all of the work I had put into all of this - to be able to captivate the attention of people I care about, who don't necessarily share my enthusiasm for baseball.  That was a big moment for me.  I was really happy that Dad liked my collection.  It really meant a lot to me.
• On February 1, I went to Fan Fest with my buddy, Scott.
• On February 6, Ralph Kiner passed away.
• On February 22, I posted about my first (successful) trade on Instagram.  This was with my buddy, Kyle, whom I still enjoy talking to.  We haven't traded much in the last several months, but we continue to talk as friends, and I send him the occasional Phillies care package.
• On May 5, I pulled the Bowman Chrome Jose Abreu auto.  One of the rare times I actually pulled a hot card from a pack.  I turned around and sold it for $165 on Ebay and I don't regret that at all!  I used the money to get some big names for my set needs.  You can see that post here.
• On May 22, I posted about my first trade with my, now, good friend, Max.  He and I became friends very quickly and now we talk nearly every day.  I have helped him expand his Cubs collection and we have even discussed meeting up at the National Card Show this year.  I look back on it and I am so glad that I met Max, as well as the other guys from Instagram.  I didn't like it (trading on Instagram) but after my first trade with Kyle, continuing with deals and conversations with my friend, James, then onto Max, I was reassured that 99% of the people (most of them young teenagers and pre-teens) are good people and legit traders.  I have always had a soft spot for kids and any chance I can get to help them improve their collections and their knowledge of the hobby, I will take it.  I now do Skype group chats/forums with several of the guys I trade with regularly, and those chats have led to a bunch of deals.  It sure beats the hell out of online forum trading.
• On June 7, 2014, I treated my mom to her first MLB game.  This was an early birthday present for a milestone birthday that I won't mention, since you shouldn't reveal a lady's age (and she would smack me, hahaha).  Mom got to see the Orioles beat the A's in a controversial series where the media really turned on Manny Machado.  Hopefully he learned from the mistakes that he made.  I'm glad Mom enjoyed her trip and I hope we can do something like it again.
• On June 16, we lost Tony Gwynn.
• On July 1, the Orioles designated Nolan Reimold for assignment, effectively ending his time with the Orioles.  He would later be picked up by the Blue Jays, then the Diamondbacks.  Now, a free agent, Nolan may see himself back with the O's in 2015.  I would enjoy that, but I know he wants a major league deal (and I hope he gets one).
• On July 19, I posted about my vacation.  I lost my camera, but that didn't stop me from enjoying a great time with fellow bloggers Dustin (who's wedding we attended) and Andrew (who is one of my best friends).  I really enjoyed meeting these guys and we, as a family, had a great trip.  I also learned that it is a LONG freaking drive from Memphis, Tennessee to Winterville, North Carolina.  Next trip we take, I'm flying, dammit.
• On August 17, I got the pieces in place to begin my next vintage set, 1967 Topps.  I look back on some of the vintage sets I completed and wonder "how did I even start this one", well, it is really easy to pinpoint where I started this one.  Thanks Rob!
• On September 16, for the first time in 17 years, the Orioles earned the AL East Championship.  This was such an awesome moment for me, since I was a senior in high school the last time the Orioles were on top of the AL East.
• On October 3, 2014, Chris and I attended our first MLB Playoff game when the Orioles defeated the Tigers in front of a packed house at Camden Yards.  I still get chills when I watch the video of Delmon Young hitting the go-ahead three run double.  Oh man, that was so amazing.
• On October 15, I broke the "No Crying in Baseball" rule when the Orioles were eliminated by the Royals.  I'm over it now, and I'm still happy for my friend, Jack, who was able to attend a couple World Series games in Kansas City.  He even sent me a Royals Rally Towel from the World Series that I will keep in my collection forever.  He didn't have to get it for me, and I know he wasn't rubbing it in my face.  He was just being a good friend, giving me a little piece of the World Series, since I couldn't yet experience it for myself.
• On October 17, Brian Roberts announced his retirement.  This was big for me, because I was able to experience his entire career.  From his call-up in 2001, to his final game in 2014, I was a big Roberts fan.  I have packed up my Roberts PC, but he will always have a special place in my collection.  Thanks for the memories, Brian.
• On November 18, I posted about a trade I completed with Noah.  This trade was right at the beginning of our group Skype forums, along with Scott F., Max, Michael and Caleb.  I don't know what I would do without these guys.  Yes, I do, I would get more work done, haha, seriously though, I appreciate the guys letting me be a part of their group, letting me be the "parent" of the group, and keeping everyone in line.
• On December 3, longtime Oriole Nick Markakis left the O's to sign with the Braves.  I was a bit sad when it happened, then, later, we found out that Nick was to have corrective spinal surgery for a herniated disc.  While the Braves feel confident that he will be fine, the O's erred on the side of caution, knowing all too well that the spinal fusion surgery isn't always successful.  Sad to see Nick go, but I think it was necessary, at the price he was getting from Atlanta.

So, 2014 was a pretty good year, I think.  I'm glad I was able to meet up with fellow bloggers Scott, Ryan, Dustin and Andrew during the year.  Each of those guys is a good friend of mine and I know we will keep in tough throughout 2015.  Now, to close things out with my goals for 2015:

1. Add 10 more baseballs to my Hall of Fame ball collection.  This would put me at 117 to close the year.  This, obviously can be done, so I will tackle this number again in 2015.
2. Acquire 5 cards from my Top 10 wishlist.  The wishlist will be updated tonight to include new cards, as well as the 5 holdovers from 2014.
3. Attend the 2015 National Sports Card Convention in Chicago, IL.  Yes, this is a sneak peek at my vacation plans for 2015.
4. Do a better job of keeping track of and responding to blog related emails that I receive.  I have tried really hard to continue trade discussions with folks who have emailed me, and I intend to continue to do so, but I know a few have fallen through the cracks.  For that, I apologize.  Please keep on me about it, and I will make trades and such happen.
5. Meet and complete trades with 10 new people that I haven't talked to before today.  I think Instagram and the blog will help me with that, for sure.
6. Continue to add to and expand my spreadsheet on google docs showing the cards I have so it is easier for folks to see which cards I already have.  I have Chris Davis, Nolan Reimold and most of my Brooks Robinson PC added and maintained.  This should help tremendously with trading.
7. Complete the 1948 Bowman and 1959 Topps sets.
8. IF 1948 and 1959 are completed, start one 50's set and one 60's set (1967).
9. Complete the 1994 Topps, 1997 Topps, 2012 Topps Update, 2014 Topps Update and 2014 Topps Chrome sets.
10. If 1994 is complete, start the 1995 set.

Thanks so much for sticking around for this mega-long blog post.  Thank you to all of my friends and family who read this blog and stay interested in what I'm doing with my hobby.  It means the world to me, and I love you all for wanting to be a part of it.  Thanks again, God bless, and to all, have a safe, healthy and happy New Year!

Brian Roberts Announces Retirement

I knew it was coming.  I knew it when he was released by the Yankees earlier this season.  Brian Roberts's playing days are over.  After playing 14 seasons in the majors, Roberts has decided to hang up his spikes.  This is a bit of a tough moment for me, because he was the first player I really got behind in the post-Cal days of my collecting.  I had taken a sabbatical from collecting after 1996 and got back into it after seeing a game with a friend in 2005.  Roberts hit a walk-off home run against the Yankees at that game and I was hooked again.  When I got home from the trip, I immediately started buying up cards just so I could add Roberts to my collection.  I have a pretty stout Roberts PC.  I have: 1 Orioles jersey, 1 2005 All Star jersey (thanks Lisa!), 2 signed baseballs, a signed bat and a ton of cards.  Above, you can see his 2001 Donruss RC; Below is his final card, 2014 Topps (with the Yankees - uggh).

Roberts closes his career of 14 seasons with 1,527 hits, 97 homers and a career average of .276.  He hit 50 or more doubles three times in his career.  He finished as high as 18th in the AL MVP voting (2005) and was a 2-time All Star.  Roberts won't get into the Hall of Fame, but he will get into the Orioles Hall of Fame.

Roberts was the bright spot on several bad Orioles teams and I will miss him.  He was a North Carolina native and always seemed to be pretty nice (although didn't say much) the few times I met him.  I will retire his PC, but I do plan on filling in some gaps from time to time; mostly rainbow stuff.  Maybe a relic or auto here and there.

Thanks for the memories, Brian.

Christmas and More Birthday From Michael

I got two boxes in the mail recently from my good friend, Michael.  He had to get me some stuff he promised for my birthday, a few Christmas items and a couple pieces of memorabilia that I bought off of him.

In the box, he included a ton of his own game used baseballs from various games which he has played, along with some game worn shoes.  He also sent some old batting gloves he wasn't using anymore.

He included a stack of books, including some brand new Goosebumps books for my son, Chris, which Chris loves.  We've been working hard on getting him interested in reading, and he really has taken a liking to Goosebumps.  Thanks for these, Michael!

I purchased from him, a couple signed baseballs by some Orioles, Tsuyoshi Wada and Bud Norris.  The Wada was an unfortunate purchase on my part, since I got him back in August, thinking he would be serviceable for the O's, but he never made a start.  Norris, on the other hand, should be a decent pickup for the birds.  We'll see.

The biggest piece is a grand slam ball by Brian Roberts that Michael caught at the August 23, 2013 game against the A's.  Roberts belted a Grand Slam off of the A's Dan Straily and the ball happened to bounce onto the flag court, then out into the mezzanine where Michael was standing.  I had to trade him some pretty good stuff to get it, but I have it now and it is pretty sweet.  The final addition to my Roberts collection (until he retires and is inducted into the Orioles hall of fame).

Thanks for all of the cool stuff, Michael, I really appreciate it!  See you at Fan Fest!

Christmas From Weston

Weston, from the blog Fantastic Catch, was kind enough to send along a Christmas package of Orioles stuff, which I received a couple days ago.  In it was the above 2007 UD Ultimate America's Pastime Brian Roberts relic.  The card is numbered to 75.  I like how the colors scanned, it really is a sharp looking card.  Also, to answer a question both Andrew and Weston asked, yes, I did need this card in my Roberts PC.  This will probably be the last card I add to my Roberts PC for some time.  My wounds have to still heal from him signing with the Yankees.

Another card that Weston sent was one that has been on my Wishlist for quite a while now, the 2009 Bowman Chrome Refractor Nolan Reimold.  He also sent some other sweet Orioles, but I didn't have time to scan them all.

Speaking of my wishlist, I took the time yesterday, at the urging of both Andrew and Weston, to add a top 10 to my page.  They're attainable cards, nothing like the 1952 Mantle, or T-206 Wagner.  Most everything on the top 10 will be had by me at some point.  Just keep an eye out!

Thanks for the Christmas present, Weston!  I enjoyed it, as I hope you enjoyed yours!

My First of Two Secret Santas

I signed up for two Secret Santas this year, the first time I have done so through the blogs.  The first one I have received is from the blog "Crackin Wax."  Topher, from that blog, did his Secret Santa through the Elfster app.  It made it pretty easy to organize the endeavor and track when your items were on their way.  In my package, I received a stack of 2013 Topps Orioles cards (I believe it is pretty much the team set) along with a few items that I scanned for the blog.  I got this really cool mini pennant of the O's that I will hang in the man cave with my other O's pennants.

I got this 2011 Topps manufactured patch of Brian Roberts, which I didn't have in my Roberts PC.  Coincidentally, this card and another that I received in a later Christmas present will be the last Roberts cards that I will add to that PC.  Since he was traitorous and joined the Yankees, I will be suspending my Roberts PC searching until a later date (probably when he retires).  We'll see.  Nonetheless, I do appreciate the Roberts pickups this Secret Santa and the friend who (Weston) sent a Roberts in the Christmas package.

Finally, I got a 1969 Topps for my set that I'm working on.  I had hoped I'd have chipped away more of the set than I have but I've been busy working on other things.  I'm glad this secret Santa took the time to look at my needs list and knocked a '69 off.

So, thanks Secret Santa, whomever you are!  Also, thanks 'Topher for organizing the Secret Santa.  I'll definitely sign up again next year!

COMC Pickup - 2006 Topps Chrome Brian Roberts Black Parallel

Numbered 391/549, I got this 2006 Topps Chrome black parallel off of COMC for $0.55.  Not bad for a black refractor.  I always liked 2006 Topps.  It is the first issue of Topps that I was around for in its debut since i got back into collecting in 2005.  I got back in the middle of 2005, so I wasn't there for the debut of '05 Topps.  It was kind of plain anyway.  2006 was really cool because of the more complex borders, etc.  It kind of stands out in the mid 2000s set offerings in my opinion, and it looks really good in the Chrome variety.

I need to go back and take a look through my 2006 set and see the names that showed up in there.  I can't even begin to name off any of the good rookies in there, with the exception of the oddball Alex Gordon card/non card that popped up.

Now, this card itself, looks really cool with the black and orange and matching up with Roberts's uniform.  I'm enjoying this card quite a bit for sure.  Especially for 55 cents!

COMC Pickup - 2010 Topps Brian Roberts Orange Parallel

I really hope I'm nearing the end for the 2010 Topps parallels for Brian Roberts.  I know I should at least have Chrome just about wrapped up.  this is yet another colored parallel for Chrome from that year, the Orange variety.  This card is not numbered, and was likely out of a retail pack, much like the orange parallels are today.

I would be really pleased if I could find a platinum parallel from 2010 of either Roberts or Reimold.  I missed my opportunity for the Reimold.  I know if I ever see it again, I'm jumping all over it.  Regardless of cost.  Well, within reason, of course.

Anyway, I never thought I enjoyed 2010 Topps this much, but I do have to admit that I really have enjoyed pursuing the rainbows of both Roberts and Reimold.  I don't know what it is, but I was able to get most of the parallels and a couple printing plates for really reasonable costs, so the set has grown on me.  I'm going to have to continue to keep my eye out to make sure I haven't missed anything.

I got this card off of COMC for $1.25.  Not bad, if you ask me.  Man, I love COMC.

Ebay Pickup - 2008 Topps Chrome Brian Roberts Blue Refractor

I guess I was asleep on the job, but I really don't remember much about 2008 Topps Chrome.  I mean, I knew it existed, yet, I don't believe I opened much of it at all.  Of course, it was 5 years ago.  I have a ton of Brian Roberts' refractor parallels from 2007 Topps Chrome, but I don't have much at all in the way of 2008 for some reason.  Kind of weird, right?

Anyway, I picked up this beauty, a 2008 Topps Chrome blue refractor of Roberts off of ebay for around $2.00.  Funny thing is, these blue refractors aren't numbered like they are today.  The card looks great, though, so I'm really happy with it.

I got several trades in the mail today, so I won't be hurting for blog posts for the indefinite future, which is good.  I had a few folks contact me for trades over the last few months that I need to reconnect with and get some packages moving.  Work has been really bust lately, but I'm not complaining.  I am very happy being busy.  Job security, or something like that.

Anyway, keep on checking out the blog and also my COMC page.  Additionally, remember that Andrew is having a group break over at his blog, so check that out.  Especially if you have never done a group break before.  Now is a good time to head over there.  Need a link?  Check the top of this page, just below my header and you'll see the announcement!

Ebay Pickup - 2010 Topps Brian Roberts Printing Plate

For $20, I picked up a 1/1 card I needed for my 2010 Topps Brian Roberts rainbow.  $20 is really not bad for a printing plate if you think about it.  I know, printing plates really aren't 1/1s, what, with the 4 or 5 colors represented.  You know what I mean: Black, Yellow, Cyan, etc.  This one is the Yellow printing plate, but I did need a printing plate for the rainbow and I now have it.  I would really love to be able to land the Platinum 1/1, but I have yet to see it.  I still kick myself for letting the Platinum Reimold out of my sights.  Dang.

Anyway, sorry for the short post, but I'm exhausted after a long day of work, so I'm cutting myself off early and heading to bed.  I hope you all have enjoyed my PC additions, because there are still more to come!

Ebay Pickup - 2010 Topps Copper Brian Roberts and a Group Break

I swear, Brian Roberts has a ton of 2010 Topps cards.  This time, I have located a Copper parallel, which I didn't know existed.  Oh well, here it is, numbered 188/399.  I knew they did copper parallels in 2007, of which I have a few, but I had no idea that they did it in 2010.

I know there isn't a copper parallel of Nolan Reimold's 2010 TOpps Update card.  I feel like this was a factory set exclusive, but I'm not too sure.  Regardless, it looks good and will be added to the multitude of 2010 Topps Roberts cards already in my possession.

Oh, before I go, Andrew is having a group break over at his blog, so you definitely should check it out.  For $10, you get a team of your choice and a random team from a jumbo box of 2013 Topps Update.  Teams will be going fast since there are a ton of rookie cards in there.  Head to his site and find the details!

Ebay Pickup - 2009 Topps Brian Roberts Chrome Red Refractor

Here is yet another PC addition that I got off of Ebay recently.  This one is the 2009 Topps Chrome red refractor.  Again, with it being a red refractor, it really pops off of the page.

I don't recall opening too many packs of Topps Chrome from 2009, which is a shame because I was a real fan of the base set that year.  I just saw this card on Ebay and decided that I wanted to add it to my collection, especially since I was able to get it pretty cheaply ($4.99).  The card is numbered 21/25.  Not a bad price for a card that is serial numbered to 25.

Ebay Pickup - 2010 Topps Chrome Brian Roberts Purple Refractor

I added yet another Brian Roberts card to my 2010 Topps rainbow project.  This time, it was a purple refractor numbered 306/599.  I know I have said it numerous times, but I really like the colored parallels out of Topps Chrome.  I used to not be really into Topps Chrome, but 2010 really sold me on it.  That is kind of funny since 2010 might have been the worst year of Topps Chrome.  You know, with all the curving problems and near impossibility of pulling colored parallels.  Maybe its just me.

I have so many of Roberts' 2010 Topps parallels, but I saw one on Ebay yesterday that I really need to jump on, the 2010 Topps printing plate...  Uggh, I'm gonna go broke.