#178 - Cesar Tovar

Card fact: Cesar Tovar ended his career appearing with four different teams in four consecutive years: as a Phillie in 1974 Topps, a Ranger in 1975 Topps, an Athletic in 1976 Topps and a Yankee in 1977 Topps.

What I thought about this card then: This was the first card that my brother ever pulled from a pack of baseball cards. Now that I think of it, it is the reason why Texas was his second favorite team as a kid. The card looks strange without scuff marks, because I saw it in its worn state so much when I was young.

What I think about this card now: The card border is crooked. It's a constant problem with '75 Topps.

Other stuff: The first thing I think of when I hear Cesar Tovar is that he is one of four players to play every position in one game. He did it against Oakland in 1968.

Tovar was known for his versatility. He was a valuable member of the Twins' teams of the late 1960s and early 1970s, playing at least 150 games a season, but not necessarily having a primary position. He received AL MVP award votes five consecutive seasons.

Tovar died in 1994. He is in the Venezuelan Baseball Hall of Fame.

Back facts: Back-to-back cards with cartoons featuring a catcher. I've written before about my feelings concerning left-handed catchers.

Other blog stuff: Valerie Bertinelli is 50 years old today. Damn.