| Nowbatting19 Sports Cards |
1975 Topps #500 Nolan Ryan
1985 Topps Tiffany #220 Fred Lynn
Congratulations to the 2005 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim- winners of the ALDS against our common enemy, the New York Yankees! The Angels got hosed by an umpire in
Game 2 of the ALCS vs. Chicago but it is nice to see two teams who don't have the highest payrolls in contention for a World Series berth. Though I am Dodger fan, I do have
a spot in my heart for the Angels. If they didn't reside in Anaheim, I would like them even more but Orange County is home of the nerdy white man and it is downright SCARY
going anywhere in Orange County. It is NOT Los Angeles and actually Orange County was named for it's orange groves which no longer exist thanks to the overpopulation of
California. However the Angels have had some great players since their first year (1961) and this page will feature some of these great, and not so great players who have at
one time or another played for one of the Angels teams. Enjoy!
Game 2 of the ALCS vs. Chicago but it is nice to see two teams who don't have the highest payrolls in contention for a World Series berth. Though I am Dodger fan, I do have
a spot in my heart for the Angels. If they didn't reside in Anaheim, I would like them even more but Orange County is home of the nerdy white man and it is downright SCARY
going anywhere in Orange County. It is NOT Los Angeles and actually Orange County was named for it's orange groves which no longer exist thanks to the overpopulation of
California. However the Angels have had some great players since their first year (1961) and this page will feature some of these great, and not so great players who have at
one time or another played for one of the Angels teams. Enjoy!
Jimmy Piersall was one of the most colorful ballplayers and is mostly known for his great fielding and antics as a member
of the Boston Red Sox from 1950-1958. He also played for the Cleveland Indians, Washington Senators, New York Mets,
and both the Los Angeles and California Angels (1963-1967). Check out the cap he is wearing on this 1966 Topps card.
There is actually a "halo" on the top of these early Angel caps. This card is one of Piersall's last as an active player. His last
card is 1967 Topps #584. Both the 1966 and 1967 Topps Jim Piersall cards were issued in the high numbered series (the
'66 card is also a short print) so they are somewhat tougher than most of his other issues. The 1966 Topps #565 Piersall lists
for $25.00 in NM condition, while the 1967 Topps #584 (see bottom of this page) lists for $20.
of the Boston Red Sox from 1950-1958. He also played for the Cleveland Indians, Washington Senators, New York Mets,
and both the Los Angeles and California Angels (1963-1967). Check out the cap he is wearing on this 1966 Topps card.
There is actually a "halo" on the top of these early Angel caps. This card is one of Piersall's last as an active player. His last
card is 1967 Topps #584. Both the 1966 and 1967 Topps Jim Piersall cards were issued in the high numbered series (the
'66 card is also a short print) so they are somewhat tougher than most of his other issues. The 1966 Topps #565 Piersall lists
for $25.00 in NM condition, while the 1967 Topps #584 (see bottom of this page) lists for $20.
1966 Topps #565 Jimmy Piersall
Dean Chance was a member of the original Los Angeles Angels whose first year was 1961. Chance was also one of the
Angels' first stars. In only his second big league season (1962) Chance won 14 games, pitched 206 innings and had a nifty
2.96 ERA. He was even better in 1964, winning 20, losing only 9, striking out 207 with a microscopic 1.65 ERA; stats
that earned him the Cy Young Award, topping Larry Jackson and Sandy Koufax (this was before MLB went to a Cy Young
award in each league). Dean Chance won a total of 74 games as an Angel in only 5 seasons (he actually pitched a total of
18 innings in 1961 so I didn't count that year). He later went on to win 20 games for the 1967 Minnesota Twins and finished
his 11 year career with 128 wins, 115 losses and a fine 2.92 ERA. This is Chance's first baseball card; check out the "LA"
logo on his cap. The Angels did play in Los Angeles at first. They played at old Wrigley Field in Los Angeles in 1961, then
played four seasons at Dodger Stadium until the "Big A" was built in 1966.
The 1962 Topps #194 Dean Chance card to the right is one of two different variations; this is the "green tint" variation.
The "green tint" variations are somewhat scarcer, hence they usually bring a modest premium.
Angels' first stars. In only his second big league season (1962) Chance won 14 games, pitched 206 innings and had a nifty
2.96 ERA. He was even better in 1964, winning 20, losing only 9, striking out 207 with a microscopic 1.65 ERA; stats
that earned him the Cy Young Award, topping Larry Jackson and Sandy Koufax (this was before MLB went to a Cy Young
award in each league). Dean Chance won a total of 74 games as an Angel in only 5 seasons (he actually pitched a total of
18 innings in 1961 so I didn't count that year). He later went on to win 20 games for the 1967 Minnesota Twins and finished
his 11 year career with 128 wins, 115 losses and a fine 2.92 ERA. This is Chance's first baseball card; check out the "LA"
logo on his cap. The Angels did play in Los Angeles at first. They played at old Wrigley Field in Los Angeles in 1961, then
played four seasons at Dodger Stadium until the "Big A" was built in 1966.
The 1962 Topps #194 Dean Chance card to the right is one of two different variations; this is the "green tint" variation.
The "green tint" variations are somewhat scarcer, hence they usually bring a modest premium.
1962 Topps #194 Dean Chance RC
Tony Conigliaro is another Red Sox that later became an Angel. Of course Tony C gained fame
in Boston as a slugger; he won the AL Home Run Crown in only his second season and in 1967
became the youngest player to reach 100 career home runs. Tony was going great guns that year
and headed for a career year when he was seriously beaned by a Jack Hamilton fastball. It's ironic
that Hamilton pitched for the Angels as by the time Conigliaro was traded to the Angels in 1971,
his career was already over. The damage to his eyesight worsened as a result of the beaning and
Tony C was essentially finished by the time he reached the Angels. He appeared in only 74 games
that year hitting just 4 home runs and batting a paltry .222. This from a hitter who averaged 31
home runs and 95 RBIs over a 162 game schedule during his career. Tony Conigliaro retired after
his only season with the Angels but did attempt a comeback in 1975 with his old team the Boston
Red Sox. He hit two home runs on Opening Day that year but that was to be his last hurrah. He
retired after 21 games hitting just .123. A really sad story. This is his last appearance on a bubble
gum card as an active player. For more on Tony Conigliaro please see our Tony C Page!
in Boston as a slugger; he won the AL Home Run Crown in only his second season and in 1967
became the youngest player to reach 100 career home runs. Tony was going great guns that year
and headed for a career year when he was seriously beaned by a Jack Hamilton fastball. It's ironic
that Hamilton pitched for the Angels as by the time Conigliaro was traded to the Angels in 1971,
his career was already over. The damage to his eyesight worsened as a result of the beaning and
Tony C was essentially finished by the time he reached the Angels. He appeared in only 74 games
that year hitting just 4 home runs and batting a paltry .222. This from a hitter who averaged 31
home runs and 95 RBIs over a 162 game schedule during his career. Tony Conigliaro retired after
his only season with the Angels but did attempt a comeback in 1975 with his old team the Boston
Red Sox. He hit two home runs on Opening Day that year but that was to be his last hurrah. He
retired after 21 games hitting just .123. A really sad story. This is his last appearance on a bubble
gum card as an active player. For more on Tony Conigliaro please see our Tony C Page!
1971 Topps #105 Tony Conigliaro
Probably the most famous of ALL Angels was the great Nolan Ryan. Ryan always had the potential; as a New York Met his
strikeouts were always more than innings pitched. However he was wild and the Mets gave up on him prematurely. In 1972
he was traded to the California Angels for Angel star Jim Fregosi and at the time probably New York thought they got the
better of the deal. They quickly learned they made a BIG mistake. In Ryan's first year as an Angel he won 19 games,
completed 20, pitched 284 innings, struck out 329 batters and fashioned a nifty 2.28 ERA. In 1973 he won 21 games,
completed 26 games, pitched 326 innings, set the all-time season strike out record of 383, and again had a respectable
ERA of 2.87, AND had threw his first two no-hitters! In 1974 he won 22 games, had 26 complete games AGAIN, struck
out 367 batters had a 2.89 ERA, and threw another no-hitter. But did he win the Cy Young Award for any of those seasons?
NO! Ryan was robbed. But he quickly became a fan favorite in Anaheim and I remember as a kid every time Ryan pitched
there was a legitimate possibility that he would throw a no-hitter. Why not, he threw 4 no-no's in only 3 seasons as an Angel.
Of course he later threw another with the Astros and 2 more as a member of the Texas Rangers. But it was as an Angel that
Ryan put it all together. The Angels really screwed up letting Ryan go after the 1979 season. Angel GM Buzzie Buvasi said
that they could replace Ryan with two .500 pitchers and Ryan signed as a free agent with Houston. What a major boner by
the Angels. Buvasi later stated he made a grave mistake and well the rest is history. Ryan was the last Angel pitcher to win 20
games until this very year (2005) when Bartolo Colon won 21. Did I mention Ryan is the all-time strikeout leader with
5,714 career whiffs? This record in all likelyhood will NEVER be broken. The greatest strikeout and low-hit pitcher of
all-time.
strikeouts were always more than innings pitched. However he was wild and the Mets gave up on him prematurely. In 1972
he was traded to the California Angels for Angel star Jim Fregosi and at the time probably New York thought they got the
better of the deal. They quickly learned they made a BIG mistake. In Ryan's first year as an Angel he won 19 games,
completed 20, pitched 284 innings, struck out 329 batters and fashioned a nifty 2.28 ERA. In 1973 he won 21 games,
completed 26 games, pitched 326 innings, set the all-time season strike out record of 383, and again had a respectable
ERA of 2.87, AND had threw his first two no-hitters! In 1974 he won 22 games, had 26 complete games AGAIN, struck
out 367 batters had a 2.89 ERA, and threw another no-hitter. But did he win the Cy Young Award for any of those seasons?
NO! Ryan was robbed. But he quickly became a fan favorite in Anaheim and I remember as a kid every time Ryan pitched
there was a legitimate possibility that he would throw a no-hitter. Why not, he threw 4 no-no's in only 3 seasons as an Angel.
Of course he later threw another with the Astros and 2 more as a member of the Texas Rangers. But it was as an Angel that
Ryan put it all together. The Angels really screwed up letting Ryan go after the 1979 season. Angel GM Buzzie Buvasi said
that they could replace Ryan with two .500 pitchers and Ryan signed as a free agent with Houston. What a major boner by
the Angels. Buvasi later stated he made a grave mistake and well the rest is history. Ryan was the last Angel pitcher to win 20
games until this very year (2005) when Bartolo Colon won 21. Did I mention Ryan is the all-time strikeout leader with
5,714 career whiffs? This record in all likelyhood will NEVER be broken. The greatest strikeout and low-hit pitcher of
all-time.
1974 Topps #20 Nolan Ryan
Chuck Connors, aka. "The Rifleman." I had this card on the Dodgers Page but decided to
move it here. A lot of people don't know that Chuck Connors played briefly for the Brooklyn Dodgers
and Chicago Cubs. He was also a star for the Pacific Coast League Los Angeles Angels, but imagine
how tough it would have been to replace Gil Hodges at first base for the Dodgers. I guess that's why
Chuck chose acting and he will always be remembered for his role as "Lucas McCain" in the hit
television series "THE RIFLEMAN" in the 1950's through early 1960's. What's interesting is that
Duke Snider, Hall Of Fame outfielder for the Dodgers, got a bit role as a bad-guy in one of the
episodes. Baseball was very good to the Duke, and acting turned out very well for Chuck Conners.
This is one very tough card of Connors, issued in bags of Mother's Cookies in 1952. For more on
Chuck Connors check out The Chuck Connors Page
move it here. A lot of people don't know that Chuck Connors played briefly for the Brooklyn Dodgers
and Chicago Cubs. He was also a star for the Pacific Coast League Los Angeles Angels, but imagine
how tough it would have been to replace Gil Hodges at first base for the Dodgers. I guess that's why
Chuck chose acting and he will always be remembered for his role as "Lucas McCain" in the hit
television series "THE RIFLEMAN" in the 1950's through early 1960's. What's interesting is that
Duke Snider, Hall Of Fame outfielder for the Dodgers, got a bit role as a bad-guy in one of the
episodes. Baseball was very good to the Duke, and acting turned out very well for Chuck Conners.
This is one very tough card of Connors, issued in bags of Mother's Cookies in 1952. For more on
Chuck Connors check out The Chuck Connors Page
1952 Mother's Cookies PCL #4 Chuck
Connors
Connors
Fred Lynn had a lot of great moments; Rookie of the Year AND American League Most Valuable Player
(1975), hitting 3 HRs in a game with 10 RBIs (1975), World Series Home Run (1975), AL Batting Champ
(1979), ALCS MVP (1982, with Angels), not to mention his stellar Gold Glove work in centerfield (if you
used to watch TWIB during the 1970s-1980s, chances are you would see an amazing Fred Lynn catch).
But if you ask Fred Lynn what his favorite baseball moment was (and he told me this in an interview for
Fredlynn.net) it would be his Grand Slam HR in the 1983 All-Star Game at old Comisky Park. At the time
the American League had lost several straight games to the National League. Back then the players really
took pride in beating the rival league. The games would really mean something. Now they are just
love-fests even though MLB says that "Now they mean something." Back to the '83 contest, up to that point
no one in All-Star Game history had EVER hit a Grand Slam HR. Not Babe Ruth, not Joe D, Ted Williams,
Mickey Mantle, Hank Aaron, or Willie Mays. But Fred Lynn socked one in that game and the AL won the
game for the first time in 11 years. Btw, this was not Lynn's first All-Star Game HR. He also hit HRs in the
1976, 1979, and 1980 All-Star contests. I was at the 1980 game and was thrilled to be there. Thanks for
the great memories Fred!!!
(1975), hitting 3 HRs in a game with 10 RBIs (1975), World Series Home Run (1975), AL Batting Champ
(1979), ALCS MVP (1982, with Angels), not to mention his stellar Gold Glove work in centerfield (if you
used to watch TWIB during the 1970s-1980s, chances are you would see an amazing Fred Lynn catch).
But if you ask Fred Lynn what his favorite baseball moment was (and he told me this in an interview for
Fredlynn.net) it would be his Grand Slam HR in the 1983 All-Star Game at old Comisky Park. At the time
the American League had lost several straight games to the National League. Back then the players really
took pride in beating the rival league. The games would really mean something. Now they are just
love-fests even though MLB says that "Now they mean something." Back to the '83 contest, up to that point
no one in All-Star Game history had EVER hit a Grand Slam HR. Not Babe Ruth, not Joe D, Ted Williams,
Mickey Mantle, Hank Aaron, or Willie Mays. But Fred Lynn socked one in that game and the AL won the
game for the first time in 11 years. Btw, this was not Lynn's first All-Star Game HR. He also hit HRs in the
1976, 1979, and 1980 All-Star contests. I was at the 1980 game and was thrilled to be there. Thanks for
the great memories Fred!!!
Wire photo of Angels' Fred Lynn hitting the first Grand-
Slam in All-Star history (Old Comisky Park, Chicago, 1983)
Slam in All-Star history (Old Comisky Park, Chicago, 1983)
Trivia answer: The background is old Wrigley Field in LOS ANGELES. The Los Angeles Angels played there briefly and also at Dodger Stadium before
Anaheim Stadium was constructed. Wrigley Field Los Angeles was also the site of the television show "Home Run Derby" in 1959.
Anaheim Stadium was constructed. Wrigley Field Los Angeles was also the site of the television show "Home Run Derby" in 1959.
1963 Fleer #21 Leon Wagner (Back view)
Leon Wagner ("Daddy Wags," above right) was an original member of the Los Angeles Angels and probably their best hitter. Daddy Wags played 3 seasons for the Los Angeles Angels; check out
these stats: 1961- .280 BA, 28 HR, 79 RBI, 1962- .268 BA, 37 HR, 107 RBI, 1963- .291 BA, 26 HR, 90 RBI. According to the back of this 1963 Fleer card (above right), "on April 30
(1962), he hit one of the longest homers in the history of LA's Wrigley Field- 473 1/2 feet. He is tied for the club record of 8 RBIs in one game, and in '61 he batted across 13 runs in three games."
Why the Angels traded him is a mystery to me, but they did get an older slugger (Joe Adcock who was near the end of his career). I think I would have hung on to Daddy Wags. With the Cleveland
Indians, Wagner was paired with Rocky Colavito and the two made a potent slugging duo. Wagner did not have a long career (12 big league seasons) but averaged .272 with 25 HRs and 80
RBIs over his career (162 game schedule). He was a 3 time All-Star for the Angels and won the 1962 All-Star Game MVP. Sadly Wagner died on January 3, 2004, homeless and living in an
electrical shed in South Los Angeles. A forgotten star, but we remember him here.
these stats: 1961- .280 BA, 28 HR, 79 RBI, 1962- .268 BA, 37 HR, 107 RBI, 1963- .291 BA, 26 HR, 90 RBI. According to the back of this 1963 Fleer card (above right), "on April 30
(1962), he hit one of the longest homers in the history of LA's Wrigley Field- 473 1/2 feet. He is tied for the club record of 8 RBIs in one game, and in '61 he batted across 13 runs in three games."
Why the Angels traded him is a mystery to me, but they did get an older slugger (Joe Adcock who was near the end of his career). I think I would have hung on to Daddy Wags. With the Cleveland
Indians, Wagner was paired with Rocky Colavito and the two made a potent slugging duo. Wagner did not have a long career (12 big league seasons) but averaged .272 with 25 HRs and 80
RBIs over his career (162 game schedule). He was a 3 time All-Star for the Angels and won the 1962 All-Star Game MVP. Sadly Wagner died on January 3, 2004, homeless and living in an
electrical shed in South Los Angeles. A forgotten star, but we remember him here.
The Angels had a dynamite starting duo in the 1970's; Nolan Ryan and lefty Frank Tanana (above left). Tanana pitched for the halos from 1973 to 1980. During one 5 year stretch he won 14,
16, 19, 15, & 18 games. Three times he had an ERA of less than 3 runs per game (2.62, 2.44, 2.54 led league). In 1975 Tanana wiffed even more batters than Nolan Ryan, leading the AL in
strikeouts with 269. In 1977 he also led the AL in shutouts with 7. Today Tanana would be easily a $10 million a year pitcher. Unfortunately Tanana hurt his arm and was never the same pitcher;
though he did manage to hang on and win over 200 games. This card was cut by myself back in 1978 from a Hostess box. My dad worked for Hostess for a couple years and though he never
brought us Twinkies or Ding Dongs, he did bring some cards back for us to have. Thanks Pop!
Check out "The BIG A" in the background of this 1972 Topps #19 Billy Cowan card (above right). It has since been moved from that location (which is a shame) but it's still in the Anaheim
Stadium parking lot, way back near the 57 Freeway. I don't know if it was intended but it sure was clever of the Topps' photographer to picture the "Halo" over Cowan's head like that. Great picture!
16, 19, 15, & 18 games. Three times he had an ERA of less than 3 runs per game (2.62, 2.44, 2.54 led league). In 1975 Tanana wiffed even more batters than Nolan Ryan, leading the AL in
strikeouts with 269. In 1977 he also led the AL in shutouts with 7. Today Tanana would be easily a $10 million a year pitcher. Unfortunately Tanana hurt his arm and was never the same pitcher;
though he did manage to hang on and win over 200 games. This card was cut by myself back in 1978 from a Hostess box. My dad worked for Hostess for a couple years and though he never
brought us Twinkies or Ding Dongs, he did bring some cards back for us to have. Thanks Pop!
Check out "The BIG A" in the background of this 1972 Topps #19 Billy Cowan card (above right). It has since been moved from that location (which is a shame) but it's still in the Anaheim
Stadium parking lot, way back near the 57 Freeway. I don't know if it was intended but it sure was clever of the Topps' photographer to picture the "Halo" over Cowan's head like that. Great picture!
1971 Topps #709 Rookie Outfielders (Dusty Baker, Don Baylor RC)
Don Baylor was the first Angel to win the Most Valuable Player Award (1979). He batted .296 with 186 hits,
33 doubles, 36 home runs, 120 runs (led league), and 139 RBIs (also led league). It was no coincidence that
the Angels went to the playoffs (vs. Baltimore) for the first time in team history. Don Baylor was also on the 1982
Angels team, which also went to the ALCS vs. Milwaukee (when the Brewers were in the American League).
However Gene Autry's team came up short both times. Baylor went on to hit 338 HRs in his career with 1276
RBIs. He is a member of the Angels Hall of Fame. This is Baylor's first card; it also features Dusty Baker's first
appearance on a baseball card as well.
The 1971 Topps cards are my favorite cards from the 1970's. I believe this was the first time Topps featured
game action shots on a lot of the cards. Topps had used highlight or "in action" cards before, but these were
usually colorized from black & white wire photos. The following year, 1972, Topps went back to posed shots;
however they did feature "In Action" cards of the popular players. Another thing I like about the 1971 Topps
cards is the black borders. It seems to make the photos stand out better and it is tough to find them in high grade
(which makes for a challenge if you are working on a high grade set). Topps best effort of the 1970's (in my
opinion).
33 doubles, 36 home runs, 120 runs (led league), and 139 RBIs (also led league). It was no coincidence that
the Angels went to the playoffs (vs. Baltimore) for the first time in team history. Don Baylor was also on the 1982
Angels team, which also went to the ALCS vs. Milwaukee (when the Brewers were in the American League).
However Gene Autry's team came up short both times. Baylor went on to hit 338 HRs in his career with 1276
RBIs. He is a member of the Angels Hall of Fame. This is Baylor's first card; it also features Dusty Baker's first
appearance on a baseball card as well.
The 1971 Topps cards are my favorite cards from the 1970's. I believe this was the first time Topps featured
game action shots on a lot of the cards. Topps had used highlight or "in action" cards before, but these were
usually colorized from black & white wire photos. The following year, 1972, Topps went back to posed shots;
however they did feature "In Action" cards of the popular players. Another thing I like about the 1971 Topps
cards is the black borders. It seems to make the photos stand out better and it is tough to find them in high grade
(which makes for a challenge if you are working on a high grade set). Topps best effort of the 1970's (in my
opinion).
1977-79 Sportscaster #23-04 Nolan Ryan
From 1977 through 1979, these large, colorful cards were issued via mail subscription. The entire set was huge, featuring over 2,000 different subjects. Needless to say, most did not complete
their subscriptions... However included among them were 140 baseball subjects including this cool Nolan Ryan issue. It is very inexpensive, listing for $7 in NM condition. I really don't know
why they call these cards "Sportcaster" as I don't believe that word is even mentioned on the cards at all.
their subscriptions... However included among them were 140 baseball subjects including this cool Nolan Ryan issue. It is very inexpensive, listing for $7 in NM condition. I really don't know
why they call these cards "Sportcaster" as I don't believe that word is even mentioned on the cards at all.
1972 Venezuelan Stickers #184 Nolan Ryan (rare)
Just when you think you had all the Nolan Ryan cards... This is a very rare Ryan issue from the 1972 Venezuelan Stickers issue. Most of the stickers are of players in the Venezuelan
League; however there are a number of major league players with Ryan being the most important. The "Express" was also featured in the 1968 Venezuela Topps set, which happens to be his
rookie card. So if you want the most difficult Nolan Ryan cards, you are going to have to get a 1968 Venezuela Topps #177 Mets Rookie Stars (Jerry Koosman, Nolan Ryan) and this very
difficult 1972 Venezuelan Sticker #184. Note that due to the common practice in Venezuela to glue or paste both cards and stickers in albums, any Venezuelan issue is rare, not only just to find
one, but in high grades especially. The above example appears to have once been pasted unto something. Also note the picture of Ryan is the same that Topps used in their 1972 Topps #595
Nolan Ryan card.
League; however there are a number of major league players with Ryan being the most important. The "Express" was also featured in the 1968 Venezuela Topps set, which happens to be his
rookie card. So if you want the most difficult Nolan Ryan cards, you are going to have to get a 1968 Venezuela Topps #177 Mets Rookie Stars (Jerry Koosman, Nolan Ryan) and this very
difficult 1972 Venezuelan Sticker #184. Note that due to the common practice in Venezuela to glue or paste both cards and stickers in albums, any Venezuelan issue is rare, not only just to find
one, but in high grades especially. The above example appears to have once been pasted unto something. Also note the picture of Ryan is the same that Topps used in their 1972 Topps #595
Nolan Ryan card.
1961 Morrell Meats Don Drysdale
Are you paying attention??? Sure, Don Drysdale never did pitch for the Angels. However he was a color commentator for them in the 1970's before he went back to the Dodgers
alongside Vin Scully in the radio/tv booth. However the reason I put this 1961 Morrell Meats Don Drysdale was not because of "Big D" but more the background. Notice the ivy
covered outfield fence with rooftops visible in the background. Angel Stadium? Nope. Anaheim Stadium was not even built yet in 1961. Dodger Stadium. Nope. Dodger Stadium was
built in 1962. So where was this shot taken? Scroll down to the bottom of this page for the answer.
alongside Vin Scully in the radio/tv booth. However the reason I put this 1961 Morrell Meats Don Drysdale was not because of "Big D" but more the background. Notice the ivy
covered outfield fence with rooftops visible in the background. Angel Stadium? Nope. Anaheim Stadium was not even built yet in 1961. Dodger Stadium. Nope. Dodger Stadium was
built in 1962. So where was this shot taken? Scroll down to the bottom of this page for the answer.
1962 Topps #132a Angels Team (with inset photos) 1962 Topps #132b Angels Team (no inset photos)
In 1962 Topps produced two variations of card number 132 (Los Angeles Angels team); one with inset photos (top left), and one without (top right). The card with the inset photos is much
more difficult to obtain. I have never seen one of these with a clear picture (it always appears blurry) so maybe Topps corrected the photo and did without the inset photos in trying to correct
the card. Who knows, but it still is a cool variation. I just picked up these for $7 on eBay.
more difficult to obtain. I have never seen one of these with a clear picture (it always appears blurry) so maybe Topps corrected the photo and did without the inset photos in trying to correct
the card. Who knows, but it still is a cool variation. I just picked up these for $7 on eBay.
I hope you have enjoyed the Angels Page! For more team pages, please check out our Cubs, Dodgers and Red Sox team pages!
There have been numerous bad trades in baseball; Ruth going from Boston to New York for cash and rights to the Broadway musical "No No Nannette," Lou Brock for Ernie Broglio, Steve
Carlton for Rick Wise and one that brought Nolan Ryan to the Angels. Jim Fregosi was not a bad player. In fact Fregosi was an original member of the expansion Los Angeles Angels
and was an All-Star shortstop for the Angels during the 1960's. But by the time Fregosi was traded to the Mets he was past his prime while Ryan hadn't even hit his. Yet. So the Mets got a
legit veteran gamer in Fregosi, but gave up on a future Hall Of Famer in Ryan. In fact with a starting rotation of Tom Seaver, Nolan Ryan, Jerry Koosman, Jon Matlack and bullpen ace Tug
McGraw, it would be have been one of the best pitching staffs EVER in baseball history. But it was not to be for the Mets. But the future was oh so bright for Nolan Ryan!
In fact Fregosi was thought of so highly by Topps, that he was featured in the 1972 Topps high number "traded" series, while Ryan wasn't. What a shame; wouldn't it be something to have
a high numbered 1972 Topps Nolan Ryan "Traded" card! Instead, Topps simply airbrushed the Angels logo on Ryan's regular card. Note the Mets pinstripes on Ryan's jersey.
Carlton for Rick Wise and one that brought Nolan Ryan to the Angels. Jim Fregosi was not a bad player. In fact Fregosi was an original member of the expansion Los Angeles Angels
and was an All-Star shortstop for the Angels during the 1960's. But by the time Fregosi was traded to the Mets he was past his prime while Ryan hadn't even hit his. Yet. So the Mets got a
legit veteran gamer in Fregosi, but gave up on a future Hall Of Famer in Ryan. In fact with a starting rotation of Tom Seaver, Nolan Ryan, Jerry Koosman, Jon Matlack and bullpen ace Tug
McGraw, it would be have been one of the best pitching staffs EVER in baseball history. But it was not to be for the Mets. But the future was oh so bright for Nolan Ryan!
In fact Fregosi was thought of so highly by Topps, that he was featured in the 1972 Topps high number "traded" series, while Ryan wasn't. What a shame; wouldn't it be something to have
a high numbered 1972 Topps Nolan Ryan "Traded" card! Instead, Topps simply airbrushed the Angels logo on Ryan's regular card. Note the Mets pinstripes on Ryan's jersey.
| 7/16/82 UPI Wire Photo Fred Lynn congratulated after grand slam HR vs. Cleveland (L-R: Don Baylor, Reggie Jackson, Fred Lynn, Doug Decinces) |
Gene Autry, long time owner of the Angels tried to bring a Championship to Anaheim and in the late 1970's through 1980's the Angels spent quite a bit of dough on high priced free
agents including Don Baylor, Fred Lynn, Rod Carew, Reggie Jackson (to name a few). As a result the Angels did enjoy some success coming very close to the World Series in
1982. They lost the ALCS to a very good Milwaukee Brewers team but not for lack of trying. Fred Lynn was voted the MVP of the series despite his team losing. He batted a cool .611 in
that series (11 for 18 with 2 doubles, HR, 5 RBIs, and an on base percentage of .650)! The above wire photo shows Fred Lynn being congratulated at home plate after belting a grand
slam home run vs. the Cleveland Indians on 7/16/82.
agents including Don Baylor, Fred Lynn, Rod Carew, Reggie Jackson (to name a few). As a result the Angels did enjoy some success coming very close to the World Series in
1982. They lost the ALCS to a very good Milwaukee Brewers team but not for lack of trying. Fred Lynn was voted the MVP of the series despite his team losing. He batted a cool .611 in
that series (11 for 18 with 2 doubles, HR, 5 RBIs, and an on base percentage of .650)! The above wire photo shows Fred Lynn being congratulated at home plate after belting a grand
slam home run vs. the Cleveland Indians on 7/16/82.
1962 Topps #209 Jim Fregosi (Rookie card)
As mentioned above, Jim Fregosi was the guy traded by the Angels to the Mets for Nolan Ryan. Fregosi was a member of the original Los Angeles Angels expansion club in 1961. He also
played for the California Angels when they moved to Anaheim. Fregosi played 11 seasons for the Angels, was a 6-time All-Star, Gold Glove shortstop, and he could hit too. He batted .268 for
the Angels with a .406 slugging average. This included 1,408 hits (219 doubles, 70 triples, 115 HRs, 546 RBIs). Not bad for a shortstop. Remember this was a time when shortstops were
primarily defensive players and any hitting was a "bonus." Both leagues were full of shortstops who could field (or couldn't) but were not known for their batting prowess. Fregosi was one of the
few exceptions. While not a member of Baseball's Hall of Fame, Jim Fregosi is a member of the Angels Hall of Fame.
played for the California Angels when they moved to Anaheim. Fregosi played 11 seasons for the Angels, was a 6-time All-Star, Gold Glove shortstop, and he could hit too. He batted .268 for
the Angels with a .406 slugging average. This included 1,408 hits (219 doubles, 70 triples, 115 HRs, 546 RBIs). Not bad for a shortstop. Remember this was a time when shortstops were
primarily defensive players and any hitting was a "bonus." Both leagues were full of shortstops who could field (or couldn't) but were not known for their batting prowess. Fregosi was one of the
few exceptions. While not a member of Baseball's Hall of Fame, Jim Fregosi is a member of the Angels Hall of Fame.
1971 Topps #590 Alex Johnson
I won't say that Alex Johnson was a great player, but he did manage to play 13 seasons and bat .288 lifetime. Unfortunately Johnson did not stick with a team very long, usually 2
years tops. Johnson ended up playing for 8 different clubs but he never played more than 2 seasons with any one club. But he is remembered as the ONLY Angel to win a batting title.
Yep, in 1970 he edged out Boston's Carl Yastrzemski by just .0004, to finish with a .329 batting average. Alex Johnson had a career year that year, collecting 202 hits (26 doubles,
6 triples, 14 HRs) and 86 RBIs. He also scored 85 runs, stole 17 bases, was an All-Star selection and finished 8th for the American League MVP Award.
years tops. Johnson ended up playing for 8 different clubs but he never played more than 2 seasons with any one club. But he is remembered as the ONLY Angel to win a batting title.
Yep, in 1970 he edged out Boston's Carl Yastrzemski by just .0004, to finish with a .329 batting average. Alex Johnson had a career year that year, collecting 202 hits (26 doubles,
6 triples, 14 HRs) and 86 RBIs. He also scored 85 runs, stole 17 bases, was an All-Star selection and finished 8th for the American League MVP Award.
"NEW YORK, AUG. 26--ANGEL'S NEEDLE--California Angels' Jimmy Piersall's dugout antics are aimed at
needling New York Yankees' batter Joe Pepitone in third inning of game at New York yesterday. At left,
Piersall waves a "crying towel" and next comes an "I can't look" gesture. An accusing finger follows and,
at right, a smile signals the batter's demise. Pepitone grounded out. Angels won 5-1 (APWirephoto)
ph60600JR) 1966"
needling New York Yankees' batter Joe Pepitone in third inning of game at New York yesterday. At left,
Piersall waves a "crying towel" and next comes an "I can't look" gesture. An accusing finger follows and,
at right, a smile signals the batter's demise. Pepitone grounded out. Angels won 5-1 (APWirephoto)
ph60600JR) 1966"
1964 Topps #315 Bo Belinsky
I can't say anything about Bo Belinsky that is any better than this; taken from the best baseball card book EVER, "The Great American Baseball Card Flipping, Trading and Bubble Gum
Book" by Brendan C. Boyd and Frederick C. Harris (1973 by Little, Brown and Company):
"Bo spent six years in the minors before coming up to the Angels in 1962, toiling anonymously in leaky-roofed bucolic outposts such as Pensacola and Brunswick, Aberdeen, and Amarillo,
quaint little mid-American hamlets which, while not totally without their charms, I am sure, were nevertheless not exactly tailor-made for the kind of varied and far-reaching social activities
that Bo liked to engage in.
When he go a shot at L.A. baby, he was ready.
He was the first of the rookie holdouts (Mike Epstein was the second) and the originator of the pool-side spring training press conference for nonroster pitchers, He pitched a no-hitter one
of his first times out, was rewarded with a new contract by Angels' owner Gene Autrey ("Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "If It Doesn't Snow On Christmas"), and was even engaged to
Mamie Van Doren- no small accomplishment in itself.
It took about a year and a half for Bo and fellow fun-seeker, Dean Chance, to pool hustle, chug-a-lug, and peppermint twist their way into semiobsolescence, although Chance, whose heart
never seemed quite as much in these quixotic recreational endeavors as did Bo's, did manage to salvage a few more good years with the Angels and Twins. Bo was still active, in more ways
than one I'm sure, as late as 1969 with Hawaii of the Pacific Coast League. What he could have done in baseball had he been serious about the whole thing is an entertaining speculation, but
since Bo didn't really seem to have cared, why should we?"
Book" by Brendan C. Boyd and Frederick C. Harris (1973 by Little, Brown and Company):
"Bo spent six years in the minors before coming up to the Angels in 1962, toiling anonymously in leaky-roofed bucolic outposts such as Pensacola and Brunswick, Aberdeen, and Amarillo,
quaint little mid-American hamlets which, while not totally without their charms, I am sure, were nevertheless not exactly tailor-made for the kind of varied and far-reaching social activities
that Bo liked to engage in.
When he go a shot at L.A. baby, he was ready.
He was the first of the rookie holdouts (Mike Epstein was the second) and the originator of the pool-side spring training press conference for nonroster pitchers, He pitched a no-hitter one
of his first times out, was rewarded with a new contract by Angels' owner Gene Autrey ("Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "If It Doesn't Snow On Christmas"), and was even engaged to
Mamie Van Doren- no small accomplishment in itself.
It took about a year and a half for Bo and fellow fun-seeker, Dean Chance, to pool hustle, chug-a-lug, and peppermint twist their way into semiobsolescence, although Chance, whose heart
never seemed quite as much in these quixotic recreational endeavors as did Bo's, did manage to salvage a few more good years with the Angels and Twins. Bo was still active, in more ways
than one I'm sure, as late as 1969 with Hawaii of the Pacific Coast League. What he could have done in baseball had he been serious about the whole thing is an entertaining speculation, but
since Bo didn't really seem to have cared, why should we?"
| 1972 Topps #755 Jim Fregosi (Traded) 1972 Topps #595 Nolan Ryan |
1967 Topps #584 Jim Piersall
| 1978 Hostess Frank Tanana 1972 Topps #19 Billy Cowan |
| 1961 Topps #184 Steve Bilko 1961 Topps #54 Ted Kluszewski |
Big Steve Bilko (above left), played for both the Pacific Coast League Los Angeles Angels (1955-57) and the new American League expansion Los Angeles Angels (1961-62). While Bilko
played for several major league teams throughout his career he did not have the success he had in the minor leagues. In the PCL, Steve Bilko was a legend. He hit nearly 150 HRs (148),
drove in 428 RBIs and batted .330 in the 3 years he played for the PCL Los Angeles Angels. In the Major Leagues, Bilko never quite had the success he had in the minors, but he did have
some productive years at the end of his career with the Angels. In the Angels inagural season (1961) Bilko batted a respectable .279 with 20 HRs and 59 RBIs while platooning with Ted
Kluszewski (above right) at first base. In his final season (1962) he batted .287 with 8 HRs and 38 RBIs in only 164 at bats. Not bad for a guy who batted .249 lifetime in the bigs.
Steve Bilko died relatively young, at the age of 49 in 1978.
Slugger Ted Kluszewski also finished his career with the Los Angeles Angels. Platooning with Bilko, Klu belted 15 HRs and drove in 39 runs, giving the Angels a combined 35 HRs and
98 RBIs at the first base position. Big Klu finished his career with 279 HRs, 1028 RBIs and a .298 batting mark. He later became a Coach for Sparky Anderson and the "Big Red
Machine." As a side note, Topps produced the first cards of the new Angels team in 1961. The two cards above are both from that set.
played for several major league teams throughout his career he did not have the success he had in the minor leagues. In the PCL, Steve Bilko was a legend. He hit nearly 150 HRs (148),
drove in 428 RBIs and batted .330 in the 3 years he played for the PCL Los Angeles Angels. In the Major Leagues, Bilko never quite had the success he had in the minors, but he did have
some productive years at the end of his career with the Angels. In the Angels inagural season (1961) Bilko batted a respectable .279 with 20 HRs and 59 RBIs while platooning with Ted
Kluszewski (above right) at first base. In his final season (1962) he batted .287 with 8 HRs and 38 RBIs in only 164 at bats. Not bad for a guy who batted .249 lifetime in the bigs.
Steve Bilko died relatively young, at the age of 49 in 1978.
Slugger Ted Kluszewski also finished his career with the Los Angeles Angels. Platooning with Bilko, Klu belted 15 HRs and drove in 39 runs, giving the Angels a combined 35 HRs and
98 RBIs at the first base position. Big Klu finished his career with 279 HRs, 1028 RBIs and a .298 batting mark. He later became a Coach for Sparky Anderson and the "Big Red
Machine." As a side note, Topps produced the first cards of the new Angels team in 1961. The two cards above are both from that set.
1963 Fleer #19 Albie Pearson (Back view)
The Los Angeles Angels were the first American League team on the West Coast. We are quite lucky to live here in Los Angeles and be able to see both a NL team (Dodgers) and AL team (Angels)
within an hour's drive of each other (though the Angels are now in Anaheim). Here in another original member of the Los Angeles Angels, Albie Pearson. Pearson, all 5'-5" and 150 lbs. of
him was a fan favorite here in Los Angeles. Originally with the Washington Senators, Pearson won the AL Rookie Of The Year Award in 1958. He played with the Angels from 1961-1966.
Pearson led the AL in runs scored (115) in 1962 and in 1963 he batted .304 and made the All-Star team. Pearson's career was very short, only 9 seasons and he retired with the California
Angels in 1966.
The 1963 Fleer baseball card set was stopped short at one series of 66 cards (plus an unnumbered checklist) due to a lawsuit by Topps. Instead of gum, the '63 Fleer cards were issued
with a cookie. The 1963 Fleer baseball set was it's last major issue until 1981, when a lawsuit opened the door for rival manufacturers (Donruss and Fleer) to produce baseball cards. This was
the beginning of the collector craze in the 1980's.
within an hour's drive of each other (though the Angels are now in Anaheim). Here in another original member of the Los Angeles Angels, Albie Pearson. Pearson, all 5'-5" and 150 lbs. of
him was a fan favorite here in Los Angeles. Originally with the Washington Senators, Pearson won the AL Rookie Of The Year Award in 1958. He played with the Angels from 1961-1966.
Pearson led the AL in runs scored (115) in 1962 and in 1963 he batted .304 and made the All-Star team. Pearson's career was very short, only 9 seasons and he retired with the California
Angels in 1966.
The 1963 Fleer baseball card set was stopped short at one series of 66 cards (plus an unnumbered checklist) due to a lawsuit by Topps. Instead of gum, the '63 Fleer cards were issued
with a cookie. The 1963 Fleer baseball set was it's last major issue until 1981, when a lawsuit opened the door for rival manufacturers (Donruss and Fleer) to produce baseball cards. This was
the beginning of the collector craze in the 1980's.