The front: One of the most famous photos in the set, this was taken after Valentine's July 1980 return from being hit in the face by a pitch in May. Valentine wore the half of a football mask to protect bones that were still healing.
The back: According to the 1982 Topps Blog, Valentine still likes funkadelic 70s music.
The player: Valentine was perhaps best known for his throwing arm but was also a strong hitter who had three-plus seasons of 20-plus HR. He was well on his way to stardom before the beaning, but was never nearly as good afterwards. The next season he was traded to the Mets, where he struggled, and ended his career with brief stints with California and Texas. Overall in 894 games he hit .278 with 123 HR and 474 RBI.
The man: Valentine struggled with addiction throughout his playing career. After his playing career he entered rehab, and upon concluding rehab became an addiction counselor, and has done that work ever since. He is also co-owner of a memorabilia company called PastPros which sells autographs sourced directly from the players.
My collection: I have 24 of his cards, from 1976 to 1984. I would be interested in trading for 1979 Hostess #50.
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