Sign Here...and Here.

My Other Head Is A Sneaker: Best Auction Ever (I think I've used that qualifier before)

2012-02-01T08:38:00.000-05:00

I'll keep this short because I am going "off the record" (if you haven't heard the song by that name by My Morning Jacket, do it)

This is the goofiest auction I have ever seen. check out this auction for a pair of "air jordans".

Make sure you check the "fine print"...

While I do collect alot of things, I tend to get the best return on my investment with the cards. My love of the autograph and sports is what started this blog, as sports stars often have little else remarkable about them aside from their stats and script and cardboard.

For those of you outside the now-open closet that is the "SneakerHead"

(or participant in the "shoe game"), here's a peek.

Fancy rubber-leather-synthetic conglomerates created to cover, protect, and even "enhance" your feet, are worth a small fortune.

new, on eBay, Jordans go for $250+ new. And that's the ones that are "hot" or just came out. There are literally 50-100 auctions for the exact same pair of shoes, but all of these people paid $160. That's retail.

these are fake, but they look good.

The president getting the new jordan "spi'zike's" from Spike Lee himself (whom I respect more for his art than his sneakers) is much better news than people getting robbed all over the metro richmond area after waiting hours in the cold for them. (If you are going to publicly announce your acquisition of a $200 pair of sneakers, get a ride home.)

Ones That Speak To Me: B. Phip, Let 'er Rip (aka Not Meant For Stickers)

2012-01-29T11:35:00.003-05:00

Great call, getting Brian into this set. This guy was never meant for stickers. He really lets her out on this one, I'll be watching for other ones, as Topps has kept my attention with the recent spate of SPA-like clean white cardstock and on-card autos. They haven't reached UD's impact in that arena, and they still have the gall to use those reflective stickers.

Here's a few other's that really were not ever fully comfortable on sticker, and whom I am glad had a chance to let 'er rip.

Classic hyper-scrawl from Mr. Ramirez. (p.s. I want to believe)

Could you have held your "L" and "y" to sticker height? right.

Glorious.

I Want To Care Again: Can a Stain Be Lifted?

2012-01-24T09:04:00.000-05:00

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1035799-ryan-braun-milwaukee-brewers-left-fielder-may-be-proven-innocent-sources-say
from bleacher report...
it would be great to get this elephant out of the room. permanently.

Miami "Professional" Baseball: Like catching a real Marlin, it's going to be a struggle.

2011-12-20T09:46:00.002-05:00

Wow, if you guys are this big of a disaster in the dead of winter (up here, at least) I cannot wait to see where this s**t flies, having already started to hit the fan and disperse throughout the room of baseball...the Unis, two Shortstops, now you look like Bernie Madoff...I believe this event may likely be too high to register even on the Buehrle meter. Now we can take a moment to imagine if Albert was reppin' South Beach.

"Following the financial meltdown of 2008, President Bush diagnosed the deus ex machina of the Great Recession like this: "Wall Street got drunk." He was wrong. Wall Street did not get drunk. Wall Street got over. Wall Street made billions underwriting crappy mortgagees, repackaging them as Triple-A investments and peddling them to naïve investors (read: your 401(k), state pension plans); made billions more placing side bets on and against the preceding criminal, but not technically criminal practice; made billions on top of that when the whole unsustainable shell game went belly up, thanks to a massive, unprecedented influx of taxpayer cash -- again: your money -- via TARP and the Federal Reserve's money-for-nothing "discount window," which in turn allowed financial houses to keep handing out the kind of outsized salaries and bonuses that had the encamped residents of Zuccotti Park so peeved."

from Bleacher Report dot com

Live Up To It, or Leave It Alone: It's A Mess In Here

2011-12-12T18:03:00.000-05:00

I have too many baseball cards...I have taken a major blow to the collecting soul I have embraced over the last few years. The one that got me into blogging in the first place. Everytime I think of this Ryan Braun news, I get sick to my stomach. I think I was secretly hiding away my true fervor for this athlete since the first box of bowman I opened in 06. He was the first Brewers low-level prospect I invested in after moving back to richmond in 05. I made a lot of money off of a few graded AUTO RCs and kept a "personal" collection" filled with every topps issue and variation of his from both 2007 and 2008 (minus 1/1s).

From 2004-2006 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Brewers were like a god inside me. It had been 7 years since mom and dad passed and I had lived 4-5 of my 9 lives in that span alone.... Going to Miller Park, seeing games in a glorious cathedral where my now long past, father came to see the World Series Braves when he was a teen. It is bigger than my favorite picture of my friend robin and I in front of the park, it is bigger than me going to the park by myself on mother's day. It is something I have been waiting to see in myself...a sea change.
I used to be well aquainted with massive shifts in perception and sudden upheaval of values, senses and awareness. They come fewer now. I feel it happening now. I see the images of the tsunami in Japan, the power of the turn of the earth.

I will be coaching my third year at the HS JV level this winter. I need to let my mind change.

Baseball is a game of physics.

...but physics came first.

Peterson

Ryan Braun: Eye-muffs

2011-12-11T07:12:00.001-05:00

Are you truly fucking serious? One of the spate of influences that got me back into collecting? Who carried the brewers in my heart down to virginia in 07, and, along with easily one of the most loveable teams Milwaukee has seen since maybe the short-lived 88-93 "Robin's Egg's" years...

We have yet to hear your "reason" for this positive test, but it was a positive test...like Manny's...and you are a fucking liar. Is it too good to be true? Short answer: yes. Long answer: keep watching baseball til you die. It won't change much.

I have a ton of your cards. I have every 2005-2007 card.

I have every 2007 Topps (RC), AND 2008 topps ROY variation ever printed

I was really looking forward to collecting a rainbow or patch of your

"MVP SEASON"

so much for that shit.

I just feel sick about it, but maybe I'll get better.

even if someone slipped you something during the chaos of the playoff run...

It is still your body, your responsibility, your team, your fans.

they are called that for a reason.

live up to it, or leave it alone.

Shouldn't Have: Did, and Won

2011-11-27T15:58:00.001-05:00

Stopped to get sundries at the local Rite Aid, when what should be to the right of the counter? two of these guys and a really dusty pack of 2010 Upper Deck. I asked the college student behind the counter what they cost. I got one of the 2011 Topps footall you see below for 1.99 (I have never seen a pack like this, foil rack pack?), and the UD for a penny...weird, but fully a must.

Boom.

Never heard of the guy before, which is not surprising because he plays for the Bengals...on defense...looked him up and he appears to have a favorable reputation in his short time in Cincy.

I like his sig, especially with the "K" inside the large "R" loop. Points to this quick, otherwise uninspired auto for an actual "dot" over the "i" as it may be...plus, the card itself is a solid offering with a very very cool photo of Keith assessing the offensive formation. The colors are really sharp, but still can't make up for the (dirty-edged) sticker.
However, upon further inspectionthe odds of pulling one of these autos lands at 1:1061 (assuming it is a Group C auto, which I cannot confirm through my current resources, if you all have a good site/sites for full checklists, let me know)
hell, unless someone wants to trade, I do buhleeve we have a keepah hyah.

lucky.
Peterson

Ones That Speak Volumes: SHAH Post Jan. 2, 2010 Greg Halman

2011-11-21T07:38:00.001-05:00

Originally posted: Saturday, January 2, 2010

Ones That Speak To Me: Greg Halman

The cut off scan does not do this card justice. Greg used almost the exact middle 2/4 of the box, didn't cross over his own line once, and appears to have spelled "Halman" with an uppercase cursive "G"...nope look to the right...BIG H. Greg just lays this one out in the middle of a spate of fresh-sharpie greatness. He is also the #1 Mariner's prospect for '10 (get used to it) and I could not pass up an auto, refractor, and photo of this card for a whopping $7 last spring. A classic Sky-shot with the right proportions.

I am an amateur photographer, and I have studied proportions and their role in human perception. That being said, it still boggles me how some cards not like this get printed.

Still looking for some traders out there. Check your emails or email me...Haven't traded in years, and am really sick of eBay. I am tired of selling away "valuable" cards and keeping base collecting dust. TONS of tradebait up for grabs, I am very eager to downsize with new family forming(albeit slowly) and I am mad generous. just email me your interest and I will check your wantlist. my wantlist is real broad, and since autos can get pricey, I am also very interested in fair-good-VG vintage cards of any team or player. I have TONS of 07 and 09 A&G,06-08 Topps heritage, 07 Goudey doubles, and bits of every other set released between 2005-2007.

Thank you and good day,

Peterson

peterson238@yahoo.com

I am so sorry, Greg. I really wanted to see you grow. I feel awful as I have been following your path more than alot of others. It's over. Just like that, it isn't about prospects, refractors and eBay, autographs, or baseball. He's Dead.
STOP VIOLENCE EVERYWHERE>

Woop! (chris berman): Three for Three...

2011-11-18T08:44:00.001-05:00

Got two blasters of legends and one of chrome.

ALL OUT OF 25...IT'S BEEN AGES SINCE I'VE HAD THIS KIND OF LUCK.

The Campbell/Harper went for its BIN on sBay. Franco is waiting on a 43-45dollar offer, with a BIN of 50. One other sold for 48+shipping a week ago.
I am taking offers outright on the Miller. I was literally stunned when I pulled this. I just wanted to get a cam rc for future sale. go figure. Von Miller has got to be one of the least-talked about, most impactful rookies in this class, and it is starting to make sense as to why he was the #2 PICK in the draft.

Last call for comments: Random.org goes into effect on SUNDAY.
thanks for my regulars for pitching in, and welcome any new heads to the place I write about my Gambling Problem (with a hobby twist)...

Now We're Cookin': (See Below)

2011-11-14T18:09:00.001-05:00

READER POLL (AND POOL, WITH PRIZE) Premiering the "Home After Blyleven Collection"

2011-11-14T07:41:00.001-05:00

I need some real answers and I want them bad enough to give you cards to get them. I have been writing this blog and keeping up as best I can for some time now, and the numbers aren't doin it anymore...

Why do you read this blog?

(details not withstanding)

1. post a comment, name goes in twice.

2. Email your reason (name goes in twice)

3. Expand in email with details or critique as a writer, or consumer of my "product" per se
(not slam, reserved for those on my blogroll only, no dbags)
(If I gain aven a glimmer of insight, Name goes in three times)

If you respond to this poll, your post name will be entered into randon.org and photo'd to determine single winner.
SIDEBAR I have about 5000-10,000 2005-10 cards that you can walk away with for free if you know where I live (you can ask) and can pick them up (if it involves more than this, money will be exchanged)

the prize: Your pick of my "Home After Blyleven: Tipsy" collection including the "cognac diamond parallel from the update series".

Omar Vizquel: Tied In Knots..."ay, you playin again this year Omar"?

2011-11-11T17:44:00.001-05:00

Omar had a great run in the majors, He actually did most of his damage and made a name for himself with the Indians in the 90s. I will reiterate for newer readers, that I went on a sports hiatus from right at the baseball strike (didn't hurt that it coincided with the first surge of pubescent need to venture) until right around 2001 when I graduated college and bartended on Cape Cod.

All this doesn't preclude me from harping positivity on his example before you.

He has the full knot up twice, and almost a third time at the front in "Omar"

I, myself, the royal "we", also have multiple knots, almost identical to his,

in my own auto, so I feel akin. (mine are on the "t" and "s" in Peterson-looks just like above except the second knot, the "s" is smaller to create proportionality)

He even makes time to get in my personal favorite "inscriptions", the jersey #.

Leaf,Donruss, again almost clipped a great rendition of a Man's Mark,

but, they make it super-easy to ignore all but the sig-in-the-box...

thanks?

I Should Clarify: Weekend Update

2011-10-22T20:51:00.003-04:00

Sell it (45 maybe) or break it open (likely 20back if I'm real lucky)?

Let's See Who's Out There: Karma Check for All of Us

2011-10-22T14:40:00.001-04:00

say you found a 24 pk retail box sitting with the blasters you were oggling just for curiosity's sake.

...say you didn't see a sticker on it, so you just "left" it in your basket while you bought food, cat litter etc. You know, just to see what's what.

then you run it under one of the price check machines and it comes up "item not found".

this does not deter you, nor do you put it back.

while checking out, and here's where it gets dicey...

the checker asks you how much it is.

"I think 20 dollars like the other boxes?" you reply.

Checker: :scanblip:..."yep". [he keys in 19.99]

you take your bags and go on about your day.

now the question I am asking you:

WHAT'S IN THE BOX!?

It's a Good Time to be a Wisconsin Sports Fan: Living in Virginia, Where It Is Still Warm...

2011-10-22T09:07:00.002-04:00

CENTRAL DIVISION CHAMPIONS

to be sure, nothing to scoff at.

We've been trying to crack that damn egg for decades.

But now I am just feeling done with baseball.

I hear Wes McElroy givin' me the business about how good of a World Series it was turning out to be, but I just wanted to see my brewers on the MAINSTAGE one time. I am definitely not saying it can't be done, and I was more in love with this particular group of characters than any crew since Cirillo, BClark, Counsell Bill Hall and Overbay were producing, and Turbo was closing.

these kids, plus Counsell, to whom I owe a debt of gratitude to for bringing what I am sure is invaluable experience to the clubhouse, just had me all the way. I want to thank Nyjer for holding it together. It is not easy to contain that kind of energy. I won't get into anything about Prince, he wanted to win as bad as anyone. I could not be happier about the rising of Ryan Braun. I bought into him when he came out of Miami, and will proudly support his future Captainship of the Floating Keg.

That being said, I have alot to fall back on. I am a fan of wisconsin sports from Brady St. and River West and from Green Bay to Sturgeon Bay. (sorry Racine)

...so that means I get to ride a few waves this winter...

This guy has his eye out for me.

Alas Though, I am back at school and am working with some of the toughest groups of students yet.

I seem to keep getting better at letting it all roll off, but in the end...

2011-10-02T09:20:00.003-04:00

Great football game.

Great time to have roots in Wisconsin, and an interest in sports.

Cheers dad, wherever you are.

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!

Plunge right through that line!

* Run the ball clear down the field,

* (originally "Run the ball clear 'round Chicago")

A touchdown sure this time. (U rah rah)

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!

Fight on for her fame

Fight! Fellows! - fight, fight, fight!

We'll win this game.

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!

Stand up, Badgers, sing!

"Forward" is our driving spirit,

Loyal voices ring.

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!

Raise her glowing flame

Stand, Fellows, let us now

Salute her name!

Welcome Home: Don't Get Too Comfortable

2011-09-29T10:46:00.000-04:00

That's right.

The brewers have locked up HOMEFIELD ADVANTAGE for the 2011 NL Playoffs.

what does this mean to a team that was 57-24 at home?

an actual advantage. Miller Park will Rise, and the walls will dim...

the fences will shrink and the strikezone widen...

All will embrace the inevitable.

maybe that's a tad dramatic.

but, we are definitely going somewhere this team has not been before...the NL PLAYOFFS

I will watch carefully, and vigilantly, as the brewers get their chance to play on

the "big stage" within the "big show"...this should be, at the least, quite entertaining...

I still feel like Charlie with a new Ratstick.

2011-09-24T09:52:00.005-04:00

The wish I wished for the first time at Miller Park in 2004 came true last night in the very same place.

So this is what it feels like.

oh, one more thing...

Just Browsing: The Inverse "Aha!" Moment

2011-09-23T20:36:00.001-04:00

I was browsing the auction sites as I am want to do when I am put up with a bum knee, checking on some "investments" and takin' a gander at cards I would never buy...like Topps Triple Threads. too many reasons to list that haven't been well-outlined in another blog.

Let's start with the obvious:

Dammit, you guys.

Everyone involved in this one from the nickname to the sig to the construction/design.

ASS.

and then get specific.

Right Now: I want to know why one would put Atlanta Braves on a fine-looking Warren Spahn GU card.
Many of you know my particular affection for the Milwaukee Braves, and have a deep respect for Warren and the other guys that came out to Miller Town when the franchise made the move.
I am even in favor of Hank Aaron in an A-braves uni because of his lengthy and inspiring work down south. You find me a stat from Warren in Atlanta. He was drafted in 1940 by the "Bees" and even played bits at the end with the Mets and the Giants, but no Atlanta, at all. Come on.
The only two Braves teams I have and will ever love are of the Milwaukee and Richmond variety.
Let's try to keep our stories straight here, people.

Peterson

Blog Stats: Unintentional Inexplicable International Exposure

2011-09-19T22:57:00.001-04:00

What's up Iran!?

where you at Latvia?

Lemme get a shout from my Ex-pats in Utrecht!

Rammstein AFB You in the house?

And don't let me forget the All New Russia.

Things That Make Me Sour: I Gave My Luck To Milwaukee

2011-09-15T18:28:00.001-04:00

putting a signature sticker on a card is bad.

Putting one on a card and then putting a window around it is worse

Letting it out of the factory is even worse.

But worst yet is losing to My Past Time...I Love It 's Wicked Ortega (all love) in my own MLB fantasy league.

Why? Roster Moves.

I, We, The Royal We: 110

Wicked: 0

What does this even say? (aside from the obvious luck and change/time factors) I topped out at fourth in the early goings and am pretty sure Beardy wasn't trying that hard, and Wicked hasn't looked at his roster since June and/or forgot he had a team.
crap.
Bear with me folks, trying to knock the dust off.

HOLLER IF YOU HEAR ME>>>

Back to school Blues: At least my teams are making it happen.

2011-09-13T16:21:00.003-04:00

I am once again on a steady regimen of disobedience and tacit threats to my health. I have so much to talk about...the seasons, foot and base ball converging (my favorite time of year)

Topps Chrome's rebound from last year's bent-wookie, so off-center you wonder how they got out of the factory to a shiny, NON-EMBOSSED card. I will address this spreading atrocity in some other post. I want my shiny wrinkles back NOW. Flat-faced chrome is for pussies and children. I have now made it clear that this blog is for neither.

also: Acadia National Park is where I want to live when I die.

Topps Football Legends giveaway is so fkking wack. Will not purchase.

Teaching public High School is for self-indulgent sadists.

Been screwed severely by retail so far in 2011. BS.

I blew it on Randall Cobb. I like to collect Packers rookies, and this kid had to do that in prime time to put his Topps/DiCaprio collab Inception rookie auto out of my price range within 10 MINUTES of his first TD.

people are so damn impulsive.

that is why I have a blog at all.

love you all. Miss you terribly. beard and I are trading, and Tim. will post 2010-11 trade bait asap.

peace.

Me My Favorite Hurricanes and Irene: Phoning It In On Hurricane Holiday In RVA

2011-08-27T19:22:00.007-04:00

Flying Debris Bitch!!!

It's Hurricane season...
My Favorite Graduate of "The U"...feel dirty even saying it...

Come on, this one's a No-Brainer, go listen to the song while you have a minute.
You won't regret it.

Watching NC deluge makes me laugh (as long as no one dies or gets hurt too bad)

Too Easy

Yeah, yeah...he's alright, but I still have at least 3 highlights stuck in my head from living in Deadskin country...

Nice card...fun to watch on the sod.

and I'm dry...

but not.

Richmond is relly not seeing anything serious, and if anything flooding will be a minor pain in the ass. small to medium debris is common in all areas. I am concerned for the yearling maple across my alley. Shit is the only thing that protects me from the harsh sun when "watering" the dog...would hate to lose it.

Nyjer Morgan:And I Got Excited When He Came To DC...

2011-08-26T07:58:00.004-04:00

I really like Nyger Morgan.

This kid is raw. just like alot of the kids I coach, he is able, forthright to a fault and plays HIS game with the fire that can burn some people he is near. However, I guarantee you this kid is polite as can be in low-intensity situations.

I originally wanted to compare his stay in DC (nearest MLB to me) to Lastings Millege, who had some mild success in CF before his "behavior" or "non-baseball" actions and attitude to get him let go after a decent year. I thought I was having Dejau vu when Nyjer let loose in a Nats uni.

Then off he went, another extreme young talent in a thorny, self-assured package, only to land in Milwaukee?! I wanted Brady Clark back so bad for a second, then I thought about what he could do with speedy-CF and base-stealing friendly Miller Park...mmmminterestink.

Then I started watching him with the Brewers. The fire, The speed, and the work. He was trying to impress some guys closer to him in age that he actually really admired in Prince, Rickie, The Hammer and other young guys working their asses off, making their own team, and making it work despite injuries, set-backs and pitching you can essentially flip a coin on.

I have sensed some definite comfort in the way he carries himself and the speed and intensity with which he tries to lead the SPEED of the team in general (like in a D&D or Final Fantasy kind of way)

why did I end like that?

Peterson

Post 320: Mike Flanagan

2011-08-25T08:29:00.002-04:00

I enjoyed my first exposure to Major Leaugue Baseball by way of the concrete under-belly onto the concrete "over-belly"of Memorial stadium. I loved it there. My dad and I always went for the lower deck close enough to "be able to see what the pitcher is thinking" according to my dad. These seats were awesome and for a real little guy all of my memories are shaped like cones where I am the apex and most sensory information did not get recorded. I did know that we were coming off a pretty high time as a team, but things were shaky. Larry Sheets was our slugger, Cal was only about 3-4 years into his gig, and Ozzie was still king SS in my book.

One of the things I remember best was the pitchers' names. Denny and Tippy Martinez, both of which I loved because I really did wonder how pitchers did all that fancy stuff in the air without tipping over. It seemed a fitting nickname, an those guys were quite decent pitchers. Mike Flanagan 6', looked huge to me, Irish-named dude. I did want to live in boston at the time cuz I was real into my irish heritage at the time (can you say Notre Dame Starter Jacket?), Don Aase tried to have "his own" stache...meh. Storm Davis. Now there is a name a kid cannot ignore.

I like to use these times of loss

to minimalize the net loss of memories.

Worst Crop of NFL Rookie Autos?: I'll get back once I get a good look...

2011-08-18T10:57:00.001-04:00

oh dear.

The Animals: Bring Them To Me

2011-07-15T12:10:00.002-04:00

Foreals. This is the only set I am collecting until after I get married...next year. Me and the Lady have to carry the cost so if she catches me with a blaster, I am in deep shit from here on out.

GINTER ANIMALS think PETERSON at SIGNHERE!!!
send me a couple and I will send you something very very good.
get at me.

Letter To My Phillie Fan Best Friend: Congratulations, Prince, My Longest-Running PC

2011-07-14T08:43:00.003-04:00

while discussing plans for this weekend, my buddy who grew up in Berwyn, PA mentioned his impression of the overall allstar game, and his suspecting of Fielder's choices for HRDerby...
my reply after his glowing review.

The coffee has already hit my stomach, and I have no jobs today so here it comes:
I think Prince's true character came through, He is 27, He loves life, and he loves to play baseball. He's already had almost 10yrs of very good-Excellent Pro ball under his belt. He has no contact with his father (selfish fuck, and a whole different kind of ball-player-I say this gives him the likely hood of greater longevity than his father[which is actually one of prince's personal goals])
He is maturing quickly, but you can't ignore his obvious love for Milwaukee and Rickie and a few others that he really gets along with like Braun and Corey Hart not to mention Craig Counsell who was the VET in the clubhouse for his 05 callup, and then left and came back and (in Rolen's absence...now that would have been nice to sustain)and is the VET in the clubhouse again.
As a client, and a businessman, Prince handled the entire 2011 all-star campaign and came out shining like no one else.
Wide Veggie want BIG money. (c'mon O's, pikitup)

If I could trade out

Gallardo
Fielder
Weeks
Braun
(maybe LuCroy even)

to the O's, I would only have to root for one team...

and now K-Rod? (remember the damage we did in 07 with Francisco Cordero? holy shit he had like 40saves)
If Gamel or Kentrail davis are in the deal, I am really going to be pissed. Shaun Marcum is really solid, but not as productive as we expected. reliable, albeit. Was he worth LaPorta? hells yes. Laporta appears to be powerful but lazy, but Lawrie too?
and Alcides is gone? Greinke hurt himself how?
been a weird season.

you guys are on the bow doing the "king of the world" bit,
we in the kitchen cookin up something badass for septermber....

Los Angeles Dodgers: What Now?

2011-06-27T08:57:00.001-04:00

In A Season Of Brewer Bright Spots: There's Only One Team I Really Don't Like

2011-06-16T17:36:00.003-04:00

Why can the Brewers not just wipe this ultimate shitstain of a team off the

bottom of their collective shoe?!...

THESE ARE THE 2011CUBS.

YOU SHOULD BE KICKING THEM AS HARD AS POSSIBLE WHEN THEY ARE DOWN.

NOT HANDING THEM 12 RUNS.

THANK YOU

AND GOOD DAY.

PETERSON

Tell Me More: How Does This Happen?

2011-06-15T14:15:00.003-04:00

I guess it's more about trust and maybe marketing than I thought.
The trust thing is obvious. Buy from a trusted seller, but maybe the seller on top has a "storefront" on thebay? maybe he bottlenecks traffic into his buying domain with some clever other ploy...I just sell with clear, concise, detailed descriptions, being aware of what search terms I want to show up in. Past that, I just make sure that all of my stuff gets there and is packed with the best of care. I don't run a business or anything, I just try to make back some of the cash I have poured down the gullet of our hobby's beast.

I mean, I have seen a lot of wide gaps in prices, but never on such small a scale. I've seen auto cards just out go for TWENTY dollars apart in just minutes...but it was $47 and $67. This is a different beast.

I have this card, so naturally I was checking to see what I could get for it once I decide which 2011 prospect B'autos I'm going to keep. I find these auctions. These ended only about an hour apart, and no. not midnight and 1am. more like 4pm and 5pm. I have always been a minimalist stat geek and have a 1041 rating on eBay. I like to think I know how it works (I am sure many of us do) but this stuff just intrigues me.

Whoah Doctor, That Was Too Close: Congratulations Dirk

2011-06-13T12:27:00.003-04:00

Mark Cuban can talk all the shyut that he wants to now. I still don't have to listen. Jason Kidd? deserving of a championship. Jason Terry? worked his ASS off. Dirk? best euro-baller EVER. but it took that trophy, that ring and the wisps of smoke as the heat were put out. for good.
I love D-wade, one of the best I've seen play,
but Heat?
when you took your "talents" to south beach, where the fourth quarter goes to die, you insisted, nay REQUIRED that we give you the spotlight in the playoffs...
well,...time to GTFO and let Dirk get a tan.

I don't even like basketball...

CHOP SHOP: I Don't Miss Donruss, and Don't Like Stickers

2011-06-08T09:38:00.002-04:00

(never seen at Wal-mart: 2011bowman, or GQ (no shit, 2/3 stops a week and not one piece of ANYTHING).

( On the shelf on the other side: this book)

Some people (companies) Just think they are...
But when you go squeezing Dennis' auto into a poorly fit window, and then, mah eff it, throw it in Upside-Down! rare 1/1 UER!!!
or, bullshit.

This is the card that started my fury. I would buy this card and slice out the serial # and stick it on some fancy Bip to send to Beardy or Tim.

F-Mart?(who was clearly watching Sex in The City while he signed this auto) Isn't that the name of the intolerably poorly-staffed and rude 7-11? wtf.

Box Breaks Team Style: Like Gum in eBay's Hair.

2011-05-17T11:03:00.002-04:00

You can't look up "hobby box" and expect to go shopping for the best deal on wax anymore without scrolling past hundreds of recently-established "group breaks" available for purchase through ebay. I don't even have the patience to look inside one, but I assume they have some way of making the customer feel at ease about receiveing a few cards out of a box. how will any of these buyers (up to 30+seperate people?!) know what the other got? Mostly it bothers mw when shopping becasue there is no way to "exclude" these burrs from the browsing process.
I have got to stop shopping on eBay.

Cannibals!: Jameson Taillon Topps Pro Debut

2011-05-17T10:33:00.002-04:00

Topps is so meta.

This is what Ihave to do. complain about retail wax. who the hell thought that I would be doing that someday? It all started with three straight bowman platinum blasters with autos in them, and it got out of control. I troll the aisle. I notice when things have been moved, I buy the 40% blasters when I want. When it comes to brand-new products...something is up.

I went to two wal-marts, I went to two targets, and what do I find?...one beaten up GQ value pack. "hidden" behind the 50% off basketball blasters.
Now I know someone is siphoning off the product. I literally never saw it hit the shelves, and now it has apparently gone, without my even knowing...and bring on the Bowman Blitz. That has likely come and gone as well.
I have got to stop reading box break forums.

I Named My Band Aid: 2004 Leaf Limited Monikers Paul "Dukie" Lo Duca

2011-05-11T19:54:00.000-04:00

Frankly, I adore the simplicity of this card and the inclusion of a relic in the classic "Jersey number window treatment". but "Dukie 16" sounds more like a teenage WOW player or a Preakness winner than a player's "moniker". The straight-up lettering shows you that "dukie 16" is not real thrilled with having to write a nickname that he almost assuredly did not assign to himself, as the good ones never are, on 1000 or so stickers for Leaf.
I would get bored to Dukie.
plus the scan looks like a 10yr old wrote on their bandaid and stuck it on a GU card...

Duelling Autos: Ultimate Dual of Class

2011-05-09T18:59:00.002-04:00

Regard two of the most consistently exceptional autographs of two charismatic, dominant pitchers (whom I both admire and covet other autographs of).

I have a new auto that really stands up, and can't wait to show it to you...

Hometown Hero: Justin Verlander and the Failed Card Sale

2011-05-08T10:32:00.003-04:00

So I attended a street festival yesterday and brought some cards with me. Assorted GU, some random autos for a buck and a book full of refractors and #d cards from 03-now. I also had Glass Art marbles (which usually sell well for mother's day as I sold a few last year at the same event).

In summation, I sold one marble for 10 less than i paid 6 years ago, and gave away about 30 cards out of my "free cards" box. Nobody even picked up the binder...so I won't be doing that again.

The last card to be pulled was by a young man in bright sunglasses and a flat-brim celtics hat with a skinny build. He seemed interested enough so I told him to grab a few cards (as it was the only way to at least keep them at the table for a minute or two).

The card he picked last he came up saying "...and Justin Verlander, local Hero" (He's from about 10 min west in goochland)

well, when I got home to watch baseball tonight on tivo, I was pleasantly surprised to see that Justin has been continuing his ascention to the ranks of Nolan Ryan-like status. I know very well the comparison that I am making, and I know it may still be a stretch, but when I watch justin while he is ON...I can't help but think of the freight train-like dominance of Nolan on the mound.

I was just reminding my lady about watching him throw in the WS years ago in a lobby restaurant in an all-to-empty city of Wilmington, DE.

I was falling in love with my future wife...and Justin's fastball/change-up combo.

Great Job Sir. My hat is off to you once more.

Can you make it long enough to get 6?.....ok sorry I asked.

I Don't Give A .....:Too Lazy To Finish This Title

2011-04-23T13:18:00.001-04:00

NO
Double NO

Little Love: Kimball's Champions Needs

2011-04-18T17:30:00.003-04:00

So I will be buying no more 2011 topps for the forseeable future, and I love this set. I have damn near every other insert from the set, so if you need some, come and get it. I have topps 60, duos, lost cards, 75% of the anniversary reprint (CYMTOredux), and any base card you may need.

hit me up. I ruined my knee, and am posted up on the couch for the next few days.

1 Ubaldo

10 Ichiro

12 Hunter

13 Cobb

15 Price

16 Chapman

18 McCutchen

19 Morrow

20 Halladay

22 VMart

23 Latos

25 Vlad

27 Markakis

28 Stanton

33 Prado

34 Votto

35 Lester

37 Stras

45 Ortiz

46 Ott

48 Upton, J

50 Cabrera, drinky

Late Entries: Blaster of Unrivaled

2011-04-15T11:51:00.004-04:00

I actually really like this stuff. It is topps using a proven Upper Deck Formula of claen lines, angles over 100degrees(SPA), wide-arcing design elements(exquisite) serial #d parallels(everything) and just-better-than-good photography(everything). I really like the look and feel of the Sidney rice jersey, decent-sized piece of jersey, verygood (not great) photo and the cool "shield" shape/foil of the window.

any are for trade for Packers...

I went back eventually and bought another one, and got nothing but ravens inserts...beardy's birthday is coming up whether he likes it or not. Season or no, the birds are coming your way.

I have a Platinum that says A.Dixom on it. I love the full Anthony. This is an absolute classic signature. Legible, upright and deliberate. Great job, Ant....but I really do want to know when, during your 50,000-toppsticker signing process you switched to your first initial? and kid...I freakin love your "n"s...Anthomy Dixom.

One For One Fun: Let's Trade

2011-04-13T17:50:00.005-04:00

I wanted to propose trades to any/all of you. I have had all of these GU for so long, that I am sick of looking at them. That is to say my mind has already burned a picture into my head and I need something new to look at once in a while. I like little pieces of jersey, especially bat chips and jersey stripes...who doesn't to one degree or another?

2010 UD Game Jersey B.J. Upton

2010 Panini Rookie Gridiron Gems Dexter McCluster #50/50

2009 UD Game Day Gear Matt Forte

2009 UD Game Day Gear Dustin Keller

2009 UD Game Day Gear Eddie Royal

...so drop me a comment,

(or an email if we haven't traded before)

and offer me one of your GUs for one of my GUs

Some rules:

1.No Users...you know all the dudes I know.

2.HOFers will probably get you two

3. Come correct. some of these are cool despite the overall mediocraty of the selection

2004 Legendary Cuts George Foster

2006 Epic Materials #027/145

2005 UD SP Authentic Travis Hafner 42/99

2005 SPX Brandon Inge #65/99

2007 SP Rookie Threads Dual Patch Brady Quinn

2003 UD SP Authentic Stars Phil Nevin #50/100

2005 UD Classic Wally Joyner "Wally World 1986"

2005 Topps Pristine Ivan Rodriguez #461/500 2005 UD Heroes Chris Young #87/125

2005 UD Heroes Chien Ming Wang #44/50

2006 UD Special F/X Troy Glaus

2007 Fleer Ultra Feel The Game Chris Carpenter 2007 Fleer Ultra Strike Zone Justin Verlander

2005 Pros and Prospects Austin Kearns

2006 UD Game Materials Frank Thomas

2007 UD SPX Winning Materials Jon Lester #59/199

Peterson

Opening Day in Richmond: The Flying Squirrels

2011-04-10T15:08:00.003-04:00

The diamond is looking sharp and was sold out so that meant only two things...stare down at the empty seats near the field after you get back from 2 innings-worth of waiting in the beer line.

The mid-week games are a little more laid back, but the people who don't live in the city itself freaking love the squirrels...tho the college kids were out in force on thirsdyThursday, the real beginning of the weekend if you are a binge drinker.

Squirrls gave up 4 runs in the first 3, but came back to win 6-5 at home. Great time. So much history for me at that spot on the boulevard. The roster has changed dramatically, as I suppose I should expect at the AA level. we'll see.

This last one is classic "Richmond Apocalyptica"...

Never Forget: My Nickname For Him Was "Upson Downes"

2011-04-08T16:58:00.003-04:00

And I'm out. It was fun, but...

Dear Baseball and ManRam fans,

"Major League Baseball recently notified Manny Ramirez of an issue under Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Rather than continue with the process under the program, Ramirez has informed MLB that he is retiring as an active player. If Ramirez seeks reinstatement in the future, the process under the Drug Program will be completed. MLB will have no further comment on this matter".

love,

MLB

EDIT: 4.9.11

Symbolism: Ricky Rubio

2011-04-04T19:34:00.002-04:00

Look. Then, look again. It's the near-perfect symbol/auto so hard to find executed to this degree...must find more. I do find that the seeming majority of truly unique autographs of this ilk come from the "other" sports, other than baseball. go figure. Isn't this guy playing in europe?

Hey Baltimore:

2011-04-01T19:47:00.002-04:00

You're gonna love JJ Hardy, I guarantee it.

Happy Opening Day: Part II

2011-04-01T15:38:00.004-04:00

A Man can dream...and I do Maybe it will be one of my 3 Fantasy teams...

We're winning games or someone's getting their ass kicked.

Virginia Commonwealth University: Deep In The Heart Of The City

2011-04-01T15:15:00.006-04:00

I am going out there, away from baseball on Opening Day Part II...follow if you like:

Well, it's been official for some time now that the VCU Rams are Richmond's baby. The kind of stuff going off around here due to the success of this team exists in a vacuum where the school's trip to the second round of the NCAA tournament along with the now-ailing UVA program. That's where all the money came from to enlarge the school to it's all-consuming pseudoplasmodium-like self as it exists today. the location of the celebration on Broad Street is quite proximal to my house (I live near there). It used to be a no-man's land. I played weekly gigs with my funk/fusion band at a bar on the edge of the fan, mostly for VCU students, and it was like being on the edge of town...to the west and to the north of Broad lurked nothing good. Nowadays it's Extreme Pizza (a name I really did predict in 96 when the term "extreme" became as ubiquitous as a volvo stationwagon was) Five Guys (which I am not ashamed to say I frequent after running or long nights) Chili's (no shit) and student housing lining the street, coliseum lofts and shit like that. all wrapped around the Seigal Center. and all brought about after the swing in enrollment and success of various sports teams years ago. It feels weird, is what I'm saying. I took two undergrad classes at VCU in 98 during the summer and enjoyed both of them. I took 4 grad classes there to complete the requirements for my Virginia teaching certificate. My fiance is about halfway through her courses for her Masters in Special Education. We have given them tons of money. wifey still is...and yet I can't really connect with the utter desperation with which the actual city and its Gov't is treating the national attention. It's like a really shitty SS getting called into the game because the other 2 went down and your bench has the trots from the plane food. He's practically jumping in the air when the batter locks and loads. It makes me feel farther from my city, and protective of my neighborhood mere blocks away from the tear-gas and impromptu horizontal co-ed tossing (which is extremly freakin dangerous when drunk). God I hope we lose this game. My city has so much more than a mid-major with the worst color combo ever.

Banner seen by incoming and outgoing traffic at RIC international airport

I am continuing to promote the heft of this video.

2011-03-14T12:30:00.002-04:00

Finish Him.

Topps Diamond Giveaway:Lucky or MASS Produced?

2011-03-04T19:33:00.004-05:00

I entered one code

(holding the others cuz they sell well right now)

and got the card below. A new PC card of 50s Sox. sick.

Then I "dug it" and apparently won this:
A 2010 Topps Diamond Anniversary set
(which I can order in august)
I do not know anyone who has redeemed any codes, Bearday and I are on the same page; essentially MCG with more frills.

I got a frill.

Tell me what you know of this Diamond digging aspect of the "new look" giveaway

I'll Take the $10 blaster: Best of Both Worlds

2011-03-02T17:09:00.007-05:00

The freaks come out at night....

Longo mini

Beckett Black Gypsy-Back

Night SP Tulo,

and motherf%$king Buffalo Bill himself (easily one of the best cards in the set).

I've opened boxes of goodwin in the past, but only one hobby and maybe a blaster or two. This does not affect my love for this set. It has grown on me like a mediocre college campus, and despite the clogged-drain, full garbagecan, beautiful agony of the painting, have grown to feel at home in its arm-chair beige, multi-sport righteousness. I never had the pleasure of pulling a Night SP previous to this blaster, and so I was intimately aware of what I was looking for/that which I had not seen in person until the opening of the box. I love it. Little did I know that this was the beginning of a little bit of a roll I was on (more to follow in $10 bargain bin blaster endeavors) I am am not so much a hockey fan as I am a fan of Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Patrick Roy, and most of all, OVI. sick pulls. Roy was inspiring as "une habitante", and I was honored to have opened this box.

Gretzky mini

UD Anny Patrick Roy Game-Used Jersey

Carey Price (rc)
Alex Ovechkin

Thank you, bargain Bin.
Peterson

2011 Baseball in Virginia: The Great JV Coaching Experiment Continues...

2011-02-25T18:30:00.003-05:00

Yes, that's right folks, we are soon to be embarking on the newest installment of the Great JV Baseball Coaching Experiment (recently coined). I will be coachint the JV Team again this Spring and will be "playing" as a Warrior, this year against the Blue Devils of the past year's expedition into coaching highschool baseball.
I have to say that I have been extremely impressed by the veteran Head Coach that I will be working under, as well as the seasoned JV Head coach I will be directly working with. Awesome guys the both of them.
Major advantage: this year the other coaches are all older and more experienced than me.

Complete opposite of last year.

I am excited, the Brewers and O's have some exciting shit to dole out to their respective divisions, and I will be coaching first base (BACKBACKBACK).

life is good.

LET'S PLAY BALL!

Battleground:Baseball is like Life is like Baseball.

2011-02-23T20:22:00.003-05:00

How could someone's geography NOT affect their personality?
(I don't think that could work on more levels. discuss (or not).

Looky Here: What Does One Beard Give To Another

2011-02-20T11:17:00.003-05:00

From the cracked screw-down to the fuzzy corner, I am in love with this copy of this card. I never did own one. The closest I got was the factory set black box version. I hated it. I yoinked the griffey and traded the near-set for the 90score set. It has been a long wait, but it was all worth it. Not only is it an error, a Ripken, an O...but it has a nasty word on it. And it's mine.
I mean, if this doesn't get shown to all my non-card interested friends who are my age, they get weak. no one doesn't remember this in the back of their 12-year-old mind.
I got a few other cards in the pack and will show those later, when I figure out my new scanner.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I am going to go fire on some protesters real quick.
(not supposed to be funny)

more love.
Peterson

BIG TIME: I'm On My Way I'm Makin' It

2011-02-06T22:37:00.005-05:00

All is well with the world, The Green Bay Packers have their newest Lombardi Trophy...one that comes 14 years after my father and I celebrated a Superbowl win (superbowl is one word). I feel as comfortable about the NFL as I have in a while. It helps alot to be the...

2011 NFL SUPERBOWL CHAMPION

GREEN BAY PACKERS

good night dad
TWP 1941-1998

Worst: Ever

2011-02-06T20:22:00.002-05:00

Halftime show made me think fondly of halftime performances in the past...wft?
I liked the BEP video for "where is the love"...ever since that moment passed, I have wondered why they exist.
why?

GO PACK GO: 1/25/98-2/6/11

2011-02-06T17:07:00.001-05:00

Before I Attempt To Sell Them: #/50 or Less

2011-02-04T22:57:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to give you all a chance to trade for any of these before they head off to be sold for nominal fees (if any) on some auction site somewhere. Holler if you have interest.

Topps Gold and Television: Opiate of the Masses...#5

2011-02-04T22:38:00.005-05:00

#5 of my top 5 Topps Gold parallel cards

Does anyone out there watch "Gold Rush: Alaska"? I mean, why is this show so watchable? do we feel like we could be there if we had the time?...that we could do better? I can't do anything but wince in pain as they prat-fall through their profane campaign for riches, nay substinance.

I wish them the best...but I can't look away...

Porcupine Creek has turned into a (sorry) "Set-Back Mountain"

Peterson

It Is So Hard...:Packers Playoffs

2011-02-04T09:03:00.002-05:00

It is such hard damn work looking this good...I can't tell if he meant to combine "Y" and "K" but damn, it's hard being a card and looking this good.

More Exciting: O's Signing Crazy People or MLBTVHD in my house?

2011-02-01T14:39:00.003-05:00

Justin Duchsherer? I remember a great stretch back in 07-08 maybe, but dude is a patch-up pitcher. he's got holes everywhere, might be good on a hot night.
O's are going to be so much more entertaning this year...

uhhh....so I guess if all the risks pay off, then we go to the playoffs against a disarticulated AL east?
should make for great TV...plus I have MLBTV FINALLY. I have been watching retrospectives like a junky and am back in love with Chris Sabo at "Bag Three" again.

Peterson

Time For An Update: Blog Roll On...

2011-01-31T15:27:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to put it out there that I haven't checked my followers in a while and if you have a card blog (or otherwise) please let me know in the comments so that I may add you to the roll of Blogs I support on my own sidebar.

thanks falks.

don't watch the news.
p

Duelling Autos:"Jeets" and "Tulo"....jeez...

2011-01-28T09:22:00.003-05:00

Upon first glance, you would notice several differences in the representation each of these gentlemen has chosen to afford you.
Old, young.
Signed 455 cards for SPA, Signed 75 cards for SPA(numbers not exact)

Mr. Loopety loop, "go-shop-around for 2011" comes out looking like the hero here.
Tulo's sig is just that. a sig. not an autograph per se.

bap-bap-bapbapbap-bapbapbapbap-TU-LO! (I dig that.)

I stumbled upon quite a few Tulo autos breaking in 2007 and have been hoarding them in hopes of an injury-free true breakout season. (fingers crossed)
I, We, the royal We, are tired of "Jeets" and his slow arm and bat.
I, We, the royal We, want more Tulo with his across-the-chest fastball and (albeit more consistent) swing.

well, that's what I want. "Sign of the Times" I guess...TULO!

Cheers To Teachers In Space: I was home sick and saw the whole thing unfold...good gracious

2011-01-28T09:12:00.003-05:00

Thank you seven for being a big deal to me. maybe the Beardman may turn you into a masterpiece more radiant than the full moon.

RIP

Injured Reserve Packers: "Not Pictured" in the Yearbook...

2011-01-26T14:04:00.003-05:00

This is just wrong.

I don't care about rules, flights, lodging or food. What reasoning could possibly make this acceptable to team-mates and coaches? These guys didn't suffer for your success, they lost their season physically trying to achieve just that. Barnett's quote about the picture of [Ray] Nitschke being his motivation reminds me of the picture my dad kept in his office of Vince Lombardi and how he told me that leadership, fellowship and competition are about mutual respect and a love for the game. I know Nick Barnett loves his game. I love his game.
Get these 16 guys in the pic one way or another...more tweets Nick and Fin, let's make a proper fuss about this until we actually have to play a game.
You all have to know how insanely sick I am of pre-game talk and analysis. I never knew I would be more sick of it when it's my team in it...just wears me out.
post my ass on the edge of the seat on sunday and let's hit it.

I want a photo including some of the sickest players the packers have fielded to go next to my 97 picture of an (IMO an equally talented team-God I miss Reggie White)...c'mon, guys WTF?

Ones That Got Away: Jim Palmer 2005 Origins

2011-01-24T18:03:00.002-05:00

There are only three reasons why I am ok with having let this go(despite having no money at all)
1. Jim has an insane sig and I want the right version of it for my collection, and I've seen better.
2. Jim has a relatively extensive on-card selection to chose from
3. I f&^king hate the little glove. history be damned, that cutesy little diorama sucks except for the banner.

Done and Done: NFC Championship

2011-01-23T18:26:00.002-05:00

Da fails.

LET'S GET IT ON.

2011-01-23T14:59:00.003-05:00

May this be my formal apology for completely alienating any readers by obsessing over the Green Bay Packers. My dad would be proud that I am making as much fuss as feels comfortable.

here we go...

Packers Parade Of Playoff Heroes: Had To Be Done

2011-01-23T12:50:00.004-05:00

My "rainbow" of 2010 topps chrome Aaron Rodgers Refractors. I do not care for Xfractors and do not collect them. I do however have no standard chrome to show off, so you'll have to cross your eyes to get the "double rainbow" effect(found out what "double rainbow" was all about...total letdown)

RED #07/25, Gold #47/50, Blue #006/199, Purple #053/555, Wally Orange, Standard.

if you have seen any other chrome colors, you come to this guy. I barely paid for these due to some fortunate auction endings and the Blue and standard pull are what got me going. It took less than a 2weeks with shipping.

never did that before. Probably won't again. I have collected parallels of some cards, but this is sorta rediculous. Hot, but rediculous.

I am goin for broke here...who knows what will happen come 3pm. we're meeting our arch-bully out back of the school, but we're hot and ready for a streetfight.

GO PACK

PACKERS PARADE TO THE PLAYOFFS-RECEIVING TWO: Jay Jay and Jordy Too

2011-01-23T12:47:00.002-05:00

PACKERS PLAYOFF PARADE OF PACKERS...(I know, the titles are getting worse...) : DEFENSIVE PACKAGE

2011-01-23T10:16:00.003-05:00

WE GOT YOU COVERED.

PACKERS PLAYOFF PARADE: The Running Game in 2011

2011-01-23T08:41:00.004-05:00

2010 Bowman Platinum James Starks Auto RC (pulled)
2007 Brandon Jackson Gridiron Threads Gridiron Gems pull-out Jersey AUTO

Would anyone have predicted that our running game in the playoffs would be led by Rookie RB and pretty decent cutter James Starks? Sure the O Line has been in better fasion than it has for some time and is opening holes where they count. The blocking upfield has been outstanding as well, making for a few more-impressive runs.
Brandon Jackson is all-but off the field 3rd down back, and John Kuhn as an outstanding run-blocker. I do not have a Kuhn auto, but will fix that today, or wait til july.
Love you Kuhn.
We are coming to get dirty, folks.
Let's get it on.

Coming next: the Defense

PLAYOFF PARADE OF PACKERS: CAVALCADE DOESN'T START WITH A "P"

2011-01-22T17:38:00.006-05:00

Starting off with the crafty core of the Packers receiving...core over the past 5yrs.

2007 Rookie Threads D.Driver Auto 20/100

2006 G.Jennings Bowman Sterling Refractor #14/199 Auto RC

2007 Upper Deck Premier Rare Patches Dual Driver/Jennings Platinum #3/10

up next:

the running game

peterson

Why?: Topps?

2011-01-19T19:33:00.003-05:00

I am a fan of Nolans all around. but I noticed that there is a discrepancy in the topps 2010 lineup. (mark this among the myriad "problems" I have had with Topps Company this year(severley miscut refractors and base, scoliosis of the card etc. all of which will be sent back for replacement) but this is one that hits on multiple levels.
I collect the 2010 Heritage Chrome set (AS I HOPE YOU ALL KNOW WELL)
but I also collect Topps Rookie Cup cards...

There is an exceptionally attractive trophy on his base card...

There is no trophy on his Chrome Base card...

elvis andrus has a trophy on his chrome card.

WTF.

Topps, we need to get a drink and work some shit out.

She's Up: And The Swing...

2011-01-18T18:31:00.004-05:00

5 views no watchers as of 12hrs of "airtime"...can't wait to see if someone takes the bait. I should put it up in the Unbeliev-a-pull thread...do you guys read the Freedom Cardboard forums? I check them to see scans of high-end box breaks. They say some of the funniest shit over there.

Interesting point of note: very into player-parallel setbuilding and "rainbows".

I'll save the effect these "rainbows" had on me when 2010 Chrome football came out when I unleash my CAVALCADE OF PLAYOFF PACKERS PARADE (coming soon)

Speaking of which:

Do you all have a forum you post in? (I do not...) Do you have one you check out for box breaks or scans of nice cards (I find these especially entertaining when you don't have the cash to break a box yourself....which is in principle, always, but I find a way).

Peterson

Your Reaction: Previous Post Title

2011-01-18T09:41:00.004-05:00

well? It is fairly gangly but if you read the post further down, it might take root.

We, And I Got A Dog: God "A" to G.I. DNA: "ew..."

2011-01-17T16:18:00.006-05:00

Her name is Lemon and she is an American Pit/undetermined terrier mix known as a "pocket Pit". She was rescued by Richmond Animal Control but her puppies were nowhere to be found. She was tied up on a concrete porch and they fixed her up enough for the Richmond SPCA (one of my favorite organizations ever) That is where I adopted her. She is a slim 36lbs, about 2yrs, and a definite sign of "Street Cred" to some in my 'hood but is as timid and sweet a beast as I have ever lived with.

EDIT [after reading comments]:
Tons of comments right away, so cool. The connection that rescues create with other humans-helping-animals is overwhelming. Wifey and I spent the first Sunday after getting her watching Pitbulls and Parolees for 6 hours straight. I have worked with both and am just all about what they do at Villalobos.
I am so proud to be a part of the Dog world. I have two SPCA cats who are my "housekeepers" if you will. Lemon is like a child, just a very...very well behaved child.

If You Want To Know What Makes Me Mad: Read This Article (which has nothing to do with sports)

2011-01-17T12:43:00.003-05:00

JPMorgan Chase Over-charges and wrongfully forcloses on US Military Personnel homes.
I swear to God, no matter who sent them or where, when our 100% Volunteer military finally gets to spend time stateside after 3 tours and a Stop-Loss order good for another 3-5 yrs,
A good business should make sure that, at the very least YOU DON'T TAKE AWAY THEIR F88KING HOUSE.

Our free-market economy should not allow people to do a shitty job just because they can and no one stops them. I'm looking at you Bear Stearns, and the Fannies...this is some bullshit.

America, Please choose wisely with whom you do business...some people are just really not very good at their jobs.

I am a dude for the time,
and I support this message.
-Peterson

Whoops: Retail Blunder Hit (SP of an SP)

2011-01-15T16:32:00.004-05:00

Got a Cheepo blaster of Topps Magic at Target a while back and opened it the other day. The cards are a little simple, as was the style of the time they are alluding to, and they look awesome with the very high contrast and high definition of the images. I have to admith though that all of this color enhancing that has been happening on the 2010 cards across the board is weirding me out a little. Kind of like how Playboy went from fuzzy lenses in the 60s and 70s to the air brush to the eventual and almighty digital "fix".

.... this little guy whacked me in the face from the last of the 8 packs. Montario Hardesty Chrome Refractor Auto #8/10

I went on a popular auction site to see if any were up for auction for me to watch...nothing.

Search: Hardesty-auto=ZIP.

Then I found a seller that had it for 179.99 B.I.N(OBO). Then the investigation began.

It turns out according to topps.com that Hardesty is in the first pool of ultra-SPd autos in the set. He has only 15 reported regular, non-refractor chrome AUTOs in the set.

then there are the 10 Refractor autos.

So I guess I would rather have the refractor with its killer little serial number. (I f%&$ing hate the printed on numbers...really, really bad.)

I am torn about this card though, Hardesty, I heard, got injured and will play next season.
...and might be good, making this a premium rookie auto to have come november/december OR I put it up on previously-mentioned auction site for 179.99 and see if anyone bites...hell McCluster sold for more than that just the other day...

we'll see

opinions, as always, are welcome in the comments.

enjoy the games

GO PACK!

fk yoo fau cun!!!!

All This HOF Talk: Common Thread of Jack Morris

2011-01-15T08:02:00.003-05:00

I guess the nice part is that I agree with the two major sports talk radio stations as opposed to constantly feeling athlete-respect-misalignment. Now, I don't love the Deadskins, so that's just chatter, but they do have entertaining assholes on the team and running it, so I treat that more like a soap opera than anything.
When it came time for Nick Scaban and Wes MacElroy, Dan Patrick and the Danettes and the rest of the talking Headphones (heads doesn't fit, radio and all) to weigh in on the recent Hall of Fame nominees and eventual inductees, I heard one name more often than I thought I would (which obviously excludes good ol' Bert B.) and that name was Jack Morris.
I remember Jack being the 2007 Justing Verlander meets 2008 CCSabathia Just-give-me-the-damn-ball-and-let-me-do-my-job Playoff pitcher of the 80's and early 90's. I was living in CT and Jersey at the time and was sort of partial to the Yankees because that's where Dad and I went. He wasn't interested in the Mets, and it rubbed off. In my mind, since 1986, they may as well not exist except for my love of David Wright's sig.
Jack pitched some sick, stay-up-late, watch in the other room because your family is in the family room watching some crap movie- Playoff games for the Twins, Tigers and the Jays (and a lifetime BA of .000. Those were the days that I was more interested in what the Allman Brothers, Grateful Dead and Phish were up to than rooting for a team or watching more than the occasional Yanks game or playoff appearance.
Jack Morris is a tall (6'3",220) hard-ass. So was my dad (6'5",250).
Jack had the edge with the moustache. He had a thick-as-a-thicket push-broom like Ned Flanders. My dad only rocked his solid brown 'stache for about 6mos. in the early 70's when my sister was born.
Memories..... (don't think of the song............gotcha)
Sometimes I think about the evolution of my collection from a monetary standpoint. I mean, wheo the fk doesn't remember what happened last time (and if you don't sorry, but your 80s and 90s cards are officially colorful cardboard again, NOT currency) So I like to spend and make money in my hobby. Should I be collecting all HOF inductees for perceived security for my "investment", or buy mindlessly because the card looks "aesthetically delightful". What I will likely do is continue to hover in between those two. Loving every card that comes my way.

Love peace and sleepless nights,
Peterson

Just Another Day That Will Live In Infamy: The Passing of Dick Winters

2011-01-10T10:48:00.004-05:00

Stokes Young writes: Major Dick Winters passed away Jan. 2 in central Pennsylvania. If you've read Stephen Ambrose's book or watched the HBO miniseries, you'll likely already have mental pictures of Winters' acts of heroism during harsh fighting in Europe during the Second World War. This is what he looked like in 1945:

Duelling Autos: Gorgeous Card, Cooky Combo

2010-12-29T07:46:00.002-05:00

Stan Lopata was once described, in his younger years with the Phillies by Dizzy Dean as "a man hittin' from an easy chair" and was eventually part of a trade that brough him to the "friendly" fans in Milwaukee and sent Gene Conley and others to the Phillies in 1959. Lopatta was confident that his bum knee wouldn't cause a problem behind the backstop in Milwaukee. Wrong. He wasn't used much and batted a well sub-Mendoza .104 in 48 ABs and was released in October.

I really dig this card, every one who reads here often knows that I love the myriad versions that Matt Gamel's Tron-like sig. but is this the most unlikely pairing I have ever seen? probably.

Am I sure I want ol stan rockin an M Braves hat...not really.

As always, if you know something I do not...share.

Peterson

2010 Bowman Platinum: I Like Very Much

2010-12-16T10:02:00.002-05:00

I bought a couple of Blasters of Bowman Platinum from Target and came away with every rookie I wanted, most of the players on my list, and these two badboys. going for 40+ and 25+ respectively. Plus these are the only other autos of these guys except for the Bowman Chrome Autos. These are on-card, These are gorgeous, these are accessible, these are what Topps does right.

Peterson

Bob Feller: Good Graciousness

2010-12-16T09:16:00.002-05:00

1918-2010 Helluva nice run, Bob. Thanks

Red Sox Land Crawford: My Favorite Acquisition Since Bill Hall

2010-12-09T08:06:00.003-05:00

So they are shopping Beltre, one of the best players I never got to watch on tv, until he came to the sox. My appreciation grew. Bill Hall has always been my #1 unsung hero. I just love the guy. Carl Crawford holds a special place for me, and even more so now that he will be pulling amazing feats of strength, dexterity and coordination in Boston.
I am dying to see my man's reaction over at CCC, (see comments for his take) I have a package ready to send to him full of Crawford hits, wonder who wants them now?

EDIT 12/9 (and he does lol)

Watching Topps Jump The Shark: Complacency is a Sin in This Biz...

2010-12-07T12:23:00.003-05:00

Let's talk football cards. Just for a minute. I love Topps Chrome this year, and hate the baseball version.

Topps Prime is the worst product I have seen in ages. It is a mash-up of fleer ultra, stadium club and the dregs of late 2000s Upper Deck offerings. I really thought I had hit the wall with Unrivaled...
Speaking of Unrivaled, It is Uninspired at best. In both of these products, the retail "hits" are more of a joke than the Platinum "variation" decoys, I mean, Cards.
One or, if you are lucky, two non-numbered, ugly, non-SP decoys per blaster. Goddam Topps is playing us for idiots. Watering down their products even further while we all sit in the card aisle waiting for Godot.
At least they (and the secondary market) are finally cooling on those misleading-at-best "Rookie Worn" materials cards #d to 499 or higher...

and I'm done.
trade with me.

Peterson

Winter(meetings) Wonderland: Do I like Mark Reynolds or Not?

2010-12-07T12:01:00.002-05:00

Well, Do I? I am guessing that only time and about 200 strikeouts should make up my mind. I pulled an auto of his back in 07, and sold it not too long after for a decent price. All of this while I had absolutely no freaking clue who this guy was...Brett Anderson was the first, also a diamondback, and I just don't care to watch them.

No, Not a Buh...:Good Night Leslie

2010-11-29T11:00:00.002-05:00

not a buh...a Bomb. As the wheel grinds away eternal and the circle be unbroken so to, must we, all shuffle off this mortal coil.

thanks to R.W.Emerson and, traditional bluegrass and tha Bard himself for the words.

Check for an Action: Free shipping to my Fellows

2010-11-28T18:31:00.002-05:00

I have a bunch of auctions over here that will be coming and going in the near future. Don't worry, I saved all the autos to flash here and some cherry-picked winners for a few trades to speak of.
anyone mentioning Signhereandhere in their purchase order gets free shipping. Or extra cards...or both.
later
Peterson

One Thing I Love About Collecting Sigs: Tha Monee

2010-11-25T21:43:00.003-05:00

I bought this little guy for a little under 8 bucks shipped about four years ago, and have it at auction right now. the auction site i use (which needs no extra ads) can be fickle, but the last one came in at a hefty 98bucks and change...
Just for the record, I bought this for the on-card sig and the great, almost-star auto. It is by far the best looking one I have seen available for trade.
Good Job, Mr. Votto. I didn't know you had it in you. (seriously, I totally did not see this coming)
Original Purchase price: 8.00
Final Sale Price: 67.50 (wtf)
Peterson

Proposition: I Think You Know Where I Am Coming From

2010-11-19T17:22:00.004-05:00

I am going to take a couple of my topps chrome to school and go see my buddy Chris in the Physics department to take a reading of the reflexive energy or tensile strength of the curve of "new topps" (like new coke only shittier) chrome cards I aquired recently in a couple of choice retail purchases.[highlights to follow, I was fairly lucky]

I will be getting as precise a measurement as I can, and we can add that to the fire that is the semi-liquid pile of disco-wax that is the hatred for topps' current ABOMINABLE quality control issues in the baseball line.

I will also post all of the first ever product I have ever had the need to send back to the maufacturer ever.

Peytrsun(in an irish accent)

New Post: #250

2010-11-19T17:21:00.000-05:00

Just to put that here. moving on...

Brick-a-brack: Wicked Breakdown

2010-11-10T18:34:00.003-05:00

Please take a gander at what my man Wicked is up to over here.

he's gonna bust NINETEEN boxes of some real classic wax. The stuff you wanted a box of as a kid, but you were reduced to using valuable Pizza/Streetfighter money or palming a pack here or there. Or maybe you were a good kid and just want to get some bulging team assortment with a few cool inserts and a blast from the days of old (term relative to age of author).

I got the mariners hoping to bolster my Griffey as a Mariner pages.

plus, I am hoping to wrangle some other participants into sending me 86 topps doubles...

send him 19 bucks and have fun with us.

Can't wait to see you there.

peace.

Happy Halloween Y'all:not my favorite "holiday"

2010-10-31T15:52:00.002-04:00

2010 Topps Chrome Football and Baseball Wantlists...Want Wantlists...wantlisssssssssts....Before I put what I have on eeeeeeebaaaaaaaaaay.....

Blogger Fun Fact: Get To Know Peterson

2010-10-23T18:16:00.003-04:00

90% of the cards I own have never had their backs read by me. I need to get on that...

It's In The Cards: Read At Own Risk

2010-10-21T15:36:00.004-04:00

There are times, many infact, that I find myself wondering just why I have insisted on accumulating so many small pieces of cardboard and plastic that bear the likeness of athletes and such. The money I spend to have and organize my cards, the percieved value that is associated with each one, and where it fits in my grand scheme of priority, all so easily seen as a fool's venture...a bilk, a scam.....but there is so much more.

These are the intangibles.
For me, the intangibles may differ from your average card-collecting adult, though Nostalgia only plays a limited role in mine.

It is the simplicity.

one card, one timeline, limited content, infinite perceptions.

why this card? why now?
I am in love with the fact that the answers to the previous questions are completely up to me.
I am in love with the fact that at any given time in my perilous life, I can get lost in a stack of mass-marketed, collector-persuant pieces of paper.

Buddhism teaches that one should not want, for to want and not recieve is the source of all dissatisfication and unhappiness.
Luckily, this does not play in my style of collecting.
I do not open boxes of Triple Threads, or Sterling, or Cases ( as I see has become hugely popular on many a web-based forum)
Therefore I am not unhappy when I don't pull a "white whale". I find it classically ironic that this term from Moby Dick is used in the hobby to describe what it does...hilarious in fact.
unspeakably perfect.

I love refractors though, and expertly painted art cards, and unique signatures.
so I keep all of the pieces of cardboard carefully in boxes, and trot them out to pick and re-pick all of my favorites and take stock of who's where and what not.

I do not plan on putting my kids through college with my autograph or Brewers or O's collections...but I do plan on having an office in my next house for me, my musical instruments, my glass art marbles, my Andy Goldsworthy book collection, my early graffiti mags, my sticker collection, my seashells, my rocks, minerals and crystals, my trainers, my fitted hats, my crates of vinyl, my photography studio, cassette recordings I made as a "sound designer" in my more delusional college days, my concert ticket stubs, my patch collection and my old coins.
hell's yes. now that is what I call success.
...only if to suceed would be to acheive total disillusionment through textbook escapist tendencies to keep my proverbial psychological "head" above water...I mean, we're all treading at some point...c'mon.

There are so many hobbies, habits and volitions in our culture (because I do believe that we are different if placed outside of said culture [read: bubble]) that can take us light-years away from our plodding lifestyle ryfe with receipts, automobiles and concocted remedies...

our cards, our trades, on our terms.
we like it this way because we make it our way.
we are the deciders. and we guarantee you we will not like everything.

So there it is. My Catharsis. the ebb to my bloggular flow. I am teaching my ass of back at the HS where I started, and for those of you who have been with me since anytime all the way back to January, Thank you. I know what those words mean, and I mean it. I will never let this blog die...but i might move to wordpress...

I would like to leave you with a pair of quotes from men far more eloquent than I...
Love,
Peterson

"Leisure is the mother of philosophy".
Thomas Hobbes

"Everyone of us is, even from his mother's womb, a master craftsman of idols".
John Calvin

Hey Don't Forget!: 2010 Topps Heritage Chrome and Refractors

2010-10-16T14:26:00.002-04:00

I am still very much in the work to complete the 2010 heritage chrome set. I have refrained from going for purchasing, and would really rather trade for them. NEED LIST is on my sidebar at the bottom...hit me up!
Also, I am looking for a
1. Pirates Fan
2. Padres Fan
3. Phillies Fan

To trade with. Stuff is piling up...see me.

Peterson

Pun on Prince Fielder's Name: Salary fit for a King on its Way?

2010-10-14T17:54:00.004-04:00

I've read plenty all over; blogs, papers, pundits, putz's and I still can't crack what the fudge is going on with my boy Prince....I mean do I have to call doug melvin? they are so busy interviewing Mgrs, including but not limited to, Ron Roenike whom I live up the street from during his days with the Baltimore Bird Club. I hung out with his kids once or twice in the neighborhood, but I don't remember a whole lot about them except they may have pissed me off for having minibikes or something. Shit, My brand new Powell & Peralta "ripper" with Independent trucks, bones III wheels (roughly the size of a good peach) was all I needed.

I digress...

What do you all think? who is after him? what have you heard?

I think I even heard Boston, but now that may be the echoes in my head.

Peterson

Group Breaks: Fun, Cheap, and Often Semi-rewarding

2010-10-06T20:14:00.003-04:00

All cards shown were attained through Group Breaks sponsored by different Blogs on my blogroll. All cards are FT, see my wantlist. enjoy.

my "epic" pull from a few boxes of Epic. I have mad respect for Mike, but have never, ever collected mets or padres not named Tony Gwynn. I only got this Mets relic because it has a Padres logo on it...sorta like finding a piss-soaked $5 bill. Still great to come away with a hit from those insanely stingy boxes. I traded for the ones I wanted (see below for Steady Eddie and the "Swat Family Robinson")

The cards above came from a break over at Community Gum, I love cal, and I got the Sox and O's, guaranteeing me a few cals (nice SP and ADD-suffering Hyper insert. Also made a HUGE dent in my nomar/sox PC, and beyond all, it was just awesome to get a box of cards to dig through. great value. great break. great blog.

Supposedly this came from a group break with the Troll in which I chose the A's...weird. Exceptional card of my favorite non-asshole base-stealing genius. Base-Stealing really is a game within a game, and I love it. The text on the card really sealed it for me. I just think this is the coolest card of one of the coolest and best 2baggers ever.

This card was a great pull from a long-forgotten group break that got me a lincecum, King Felix, and some other base, but this one was what made me excited to open the package. I look at this one all the time. Howie has some seemingly-fading upside, but I like his style of play. Rod, well...you know the deal. The man was miraculous at times.

I feel like Group breaks can be great, but it is the lottery scheme that we are all too familiar with. I think that since I really dig pulling great looking cards of nobodies, that shooting for the stars in (especially high end) group breaks is a welcome cheap opportunity to take a chance, if you have the cash...

Thank you EVERYONE for hosting these extremely entertaining breaks, and thank you all for being so super-professional about getting the cards out to your people.

Peterson

Half-Off Blaster Chronicles: 2008 UD "Artifacts"

2010-10-03T10:34:00.003-04:00

This was a great descision on my part (though I had my doubts as I should have). I had the retail bug and saw the 10 and change box at walmart.
Boom.
:Sawx Bawx:
I have seen some of the stuff out of this product before and have not been overly impressed with the "lineup" of players and Upper Deck's awkward take on history. Once I got past all that in the first 6packs, I pulled the two of these from the last one.

I love Mike Lowell, hard worker, SOX Ring Bearer, and all-around great classic ballplayer. The Franchise Members 4 is something I did not know existed. I think it is absolutely freaking rad. I am such a sucker for the "scroll/banner/multiple outline style (and the player choice: B+... pic layout:A...") that this card jumped into the Box of excellence.

Thanks for stopping by,
Check my updated Wantlist on the sidebar! You!
and have a great day.

Peterson