When I saw this card, it was love at first sight. Where do I begin? I loved the green-and-gold combo. I loved that this is one of several '76 Pirates cards that appeared to be photographed in the dead of night (actually, I think it was just poor photography in a poorly-lit Three Rivers Stadium). I loved the name Manny Sanguillen. Who doesn't? I loved the expression on his face.
But most of all, I loved, absolutely LOVED, the fireball streak shooting behind Manny. Did a rocket ship just blaze past? A guy with a jet-pack? The young, impressionable mind whirred with possibilities. I still don't know what that burning flame is. Some scoreboard effect? Anyone? Please help me out. But I hope by knowing that I don't lose my appreciation for this card.
I had hoped to upgrade this card at the memorabilia show I went to Sunday. But I couldn't find it. Speaking of the card show, I will be posting over the next couple of days about what I bought. You'll want to stay tuned, because some of what I bought were gifts for some of my fellow generous bloggers. And there's a tiny contest involved, too. Now, don't get too excited. I didn't spend a lot. But, hey, free cards are free cards.
In the meantime, 1976 Topps Manny Sanguillen, I appreciate you, for that awesome, awesome electric fireball.
(EDIT: More level-headed minds than mine have deduced that this "electric fireball" is probably nothing more than the edge of the dugout seats and a towel. While they're probably right, the 12-year-old in me will ignore that fact. Burn bright, fireball!)
Comments
Isn't that another player sitting "incorrectly" on the back of the bench giving kids bad ideas?
As for that white blur... a towel maybe for Manny to use to wipe the sweat off his face after he goes yard on the next pitch.
I think it really would take an electric fireball thrown at 200+ mph to sneak one by him.