Catcher Chad Kreuter played sixteen seasons in the major leagues for seven teams, mostly the Rangers, Tigers and Dodgers. In 944 games, he hit .237 with 54 HR and 274 RBI. Now working in sales at Scott's Golf Cards in Port St. Lucie, FL, he kindly responded to my questions about baseball cards with this statement. He even gave it a title!
"The Joy and Honor of Being Featured on Baseball Cards: A Former MLB Player's Perspective"
As
a former MLB player, I've experienced many unforgettable moments in my
baseball career. However, one memory that stands out is the thrill of
seeing myself on a baseball card for the very first time. While there
may not be any wild stories about baseball cards in my life, it has
always been an honor to be featured on them.
Getting your first
rookie card is undeniably cool. The feeling of accomplishment that comes
from seeing your face and stats printed on a card is hard to describe.
For me, it was a milestone that validated my hard work and dedication to
the sport.
Interestingly enough, I was never an avid collector of
baseball cards. My love for them began as a kid when I'd buy packs of
cards that came with bubble gum. I'd eagerly open the packs to discover
which players were inside, studying their stats, positions, and team
affiliations. These cards allowed me to follow my favorite players both
as a fan and as a student of the game.
One of my fondest childhood
memories was attaching baseball cards to the frame of my bicycle, front
and back, with the spokes just barely touching the cards. As soon as I
started pedaling, the sound transformed my bicycle into an instant
motorcycle. It was a simple joy that fueled my passion for baseball and
everything surrounding it.
Over the years, my family members have
framed and displayed all of my baseball cards together. I've always made
an effort to sign cards for fans, and I continue to do so whenever
someone approaches me with one. It's a small token of appreciation for
the support and enthusiasm of the fans who have followed my career.
In
the end, baseball cards represent more than just collectible items –
they're symbols of the love and dedication we have for the game. Being
featured on a baseball card is a privilege and an honor, and I'm
grateful to be part of this cherished tradition in the world of
baseball."
Thanks!
Very cool. Remember him with the Tigers.
ReplyDeleteSweet!
ReplyDeleteThat was great! I hope that is the overall feeling of those blessed enough to make to that level. Especially like that you used a Rangers card!
ReplyDeleteThis might be the most thoughtful and extensive reply I've seen to these queries. Kudos, Mr. Kreuter!
ReplyDelete👍
ReplyDeleteI just heard Orel Hershiser say that one of the first signs that you've made it in MLB is getting your own baseball card. That's the power they still have.
ReplyDeleteSounds like Chad should have a blog of his own :)
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