Another TTM Success From Jim Palmer

These Jim Palmer cards were left over from my trip to Baltimore. I talked to him but he wouldn't sign, so I sent them off TTM to go ahead and get them signed.  The above 2013 Panini Cooperstown card is a really nice parallel that I've had for a long time. 

I also got this 2010 Topps Tribute signed that turned out great.

I mailed to Palmer on October 3 and got the cards back on October 14, for an 11-day TAT.   I paid his fee of $10/card.

A Surprise Care Package From Jory

I got a surprise care package in the mail the other day from my very good friend, Joey.  Joey was one of the first group of kids I traded with on Instagram.  Joey was the recipient of some sweet Red Sox cards that I had been holding for him, and I guess the care package was in response to that.  I didn't send him stuff so that I could get stuff in return, I just liked finding cards for his collection.  Joey is such a nice person, it makes helping him out so easy, really.

He sent me a bunch of Orioles cards, but some of the most remarkable cards in the package were non-Orioles.  There were 4 of the orange parallel cards from 2013 Panini Cooperstown.  The scan didn't really do the Newhouser card justice, but trust me when I tell you, they look nice in person.  The Newhouser card is numbered 290/325.  He is one of those guys, who a lot of folks don't realize is a Hall of Famer.  His two AL MVP awards as a pitcher are a huge reason why, but he definitely was a great pitcher in his day.

Joey caught me way off guard with this card.  This is a Yankee Stadium Legacy relic card of Paul O'Neill.  O'Neill is definitely one of those great Yankee players.  While I have a huge disdain for the Bronx Bombers, O'Neill always had my respect.  He was just a good ballplayer.  I have his auto, given to me by my sister-in-law, since they share a relation (I believe he is married to her cousin).

I really appreciate the package, Joey.  Thanks so much, but more importantly, thanks for being a good friend.

My Thoughts on 2013 Panini Cooperstown

Last year, when I picked up a few packs of 2012 Panini Cooperstown, I was really impressed.  For a product that does not have a MLB license, they really made it look sharp.  This year's offering is no different.  The cards are very sharp and they are of a subject that I really enjoy.  I actually busted a box of Cooperstown today.  I had a choice of A&G and Cooperstown and I actually chose Cooperstown.

I will probably pull out some notable cards in the future, but I really wanted to take today to showcase the 'hit' of the box.  The hobby box boasts only one hit and it is a promise of an on card HOF auto.  Well, as you can see above, the auto was Paul Molitor.

The card looks great.  His signature really pops off of the card.  I like the black and white background, and the design of the auto area is really nice.  I actually traded away a Molitor auto the other day, so I was happy to add one back to my collection this quickly.

In all, I was really happy with 2013 Panini Cooperstown.  I don't know if I will pursue the set or will just break up the cards to send to other bloggers.  We'll see, but for now, I am just enjoying them.  I know I will add the Molitor to my collection and will not plan on trading or selling it.