Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Cake or gum? 1976 Cesar Geronimo

Last time was an easy 10-1 victory for Topps. Will this one be closer?

Hostess has Geronimo at spring training, with his long name extending well past the shoulder on his jersey. Topps has him at Candlestick park, with the stadium and scoreboard in the background.

Originally a Yankees prospect, Geronimo was a Rule V selection by the Astros in 1969. After three years in Houston with little playing time, he was a throw-in in the trade that sent Joe Morgan to the Reds. Though never a star like Morgan, Geronimo developed into an integral part of the Big Red Machine. The center fielder won four straight Gold Gloves from 1974 to 1977. In his best years he hit for some average with doubles power and a little speed. His production tailed off significantly when he turned 30 in 1978. He ended his career with three seasons as a backup outfielder in KC. Overall in 1,522 games he hit .258 with 161 doubles, 51 HR, 392 RBI and 82 SB. After his playing career, he was involved in many coaching and development endeavors in his native Dominican Republic. He is now retired.

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