Friday, September 21, 2018

1981 Topps Jack Clark

The front: Looks like a spring training shot. The shadows make it look like he has a unibrow.
 
The back: The longest hitting streak in franchise history was set by New York Giant George Davis, 33 games in 1893.
The player: Though an excellent player for the Giants, Clark wore out his welcome with San Francisco by 1984, and he was traded to the Cardinals, where he helped them win two pennants, adding some power to a team that was built mostly around speed and defense. He signed with the Yankees for the 1988 season, a signing that was supposed to propel the team back to the World Series. However, both Clark and the Yankees had a disappointing season. After one season the Yankees shipped him off to San Diego for two middle relievers and outfielder Stan Jefferson. I remember watching WPIX news with sportscaster Jerry Girard talking about the trade – “When Jefferson bats, turn the volume on your TV all the way up and when he hits the ball you’ll hear a little ‘ping’.” Clark ended his career with two seasons each in San Diego and Boston.
 
The man: A fascinating article from Sports Illustrated in 1992 illustrates Clark’s difficult upbringing and his unique, intense personality, which enamored him to many teammates but also called major rifts with stars like Frank Robinson, Ozzie Smith and Tony Gwynn. After his playing career ended he spent a while on talk radio, but was sued by Albert Pujols after Clark accused him of PED use. (Pujols later dropped the suit when Clark said he misspoke). Earlier this year Clark filed for bankruptcy for the second time.
 
My collection: I have 114 of his cards, from 1978 to 1993. I would be interested in trading for 1977 Topps #488.

1 comment:

  1. Dang. Sad to hear that he had to file for bankruptcy. I vaguely remember his issues with other players. Mainly remember him hitting home runs at Candlestick.

    ReplyDelete