1981 Topps Leon Roberts

 

The front: Very interesting card here. Like many other cards in this set, this is a pregame photo at Tiger Stadium. What is unusual is that the top right quarter of the background has been blacked out. I wasn't even sure if that was airbrushing or there was an empty spot in the stands, or maybe even a curtain or something. But if you look between Roberts's eye and the bill of his cap, you can see a glimpse of the original background. Makes you wonder what Topps didn't want you to see!

The back: The football tidbit is more interesting that it appears. Roberts tried out in 1977, during his fourth major league season! His plan was to play for the Astros during the week and the Oilers on Sunday. He was actually offered a contract by the Oilers, but the Astros, fearing an injury, upped Roberts's salary to dissuade him from moonlighting in the NFL. The Oilers ended up going with rookie Cliff Parsley, who had a solid season (6th in the AFC in average yards) and a solid six-year career with Houston.

The player: Outfielder Leon Roberts played 11 seasons for six teams. His best season was 1978 with the Mariners, when he hit .301 with 22 HR and 92 RBI. Overall in 900 major league games he hit .267 with 78 HR and 328 RBI.

The man: After his playing career, Roberts was a minor league coach in several organizations. He is now retired.

My collection: I have 20 of his cards, from 1975 to 1985. I would be interested in trading for 1979 Hostess #37.