Card Spotlight: 12-4-09

1968 Topps Game #13 - Gary Peters

Inserts are nothing new. In packs of 1968 Topps, there were cards depicting a baseball game. One could either purchase many packs trying to complete the set or send away for a set of 33 cards.

These cards are notable in a few different ways. The cards are a throwback to the 1951 set. The backs have a similar feel to them and the fronts are reminiscent of the baseball game on those original cards.

If sixties cards of stars are a little out of your budget, this is a perfect way to complete a vintage set. Stars like Mickey Mantle, Roberto Clemente, Carl Yastrzemski, Hank Aaron and Pete Rose are just some of the players that make up the set.

If you are patient enough, you can find most of these cards for a song. That's one of the advantages to most vintage insert cards. They tend to be overlooked and packed with stars of the day.

Gary Peters is one of the forgotten stars of the sixties. From his Rookie of the Year season in 1963, he dominated the American League. He led the AL in ERA in 1963 and 1966. He reached the 20 game win mark in 1964. In 1963, he missed that mark by one game.

So, with numbers like that, why isn't Gary Peters a household name? Mostly, it has to do with the "just missed the playoffs by a game or two" record of the White Sox in the sixties. Most years, the White Sox were right in the thick of things until the last week of the season. By the time Gary made it over to Boston, his career was winding down.

Keep an eye out for Topps inserts of the sixties. They are an inexpensive way to pick up vintage star cards. Hurry, before everyone else realizes it.