Wednesday, February 1, 2023

1981 Topps Ray Knight

 

The front: Knight has a laugh while taking batting practice at Shea Stadium, site of his future glories.

The back: Knight's 1979 season was impressive for a young player who had to replace the superstar Pete Rose, who had left the team for the Phillies via free agency.

The player: Ray Knight played for five teams over 13 seasons, but is best known for his contributions to the 1986 Mets. A decent-hitting third baseman who would hit around .300 with a little power, he saved his best hitting for the World Series. In his only Fall Classic, he was the MVP, hitting .391. He scored the winning run on Bill Buckner's error in Game 6, and in Game 7 his home run broke a 7th-inning tie to win that game as well. Overall, in 1,495 games he hit .271 with 84 HR and 595 RBI.

The man: Knight briefly managed the Reds, and was later a longtime announcer for the Nationals. He is now retired. His 27-year marriage to golfer Nancy Lopez was one of the more notable two-sport marriages.

My collection: I have 48 of his cards, from 1978 to 1989. I would be interested in trading for 1982 Fleer Stamps #18.


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