1952 Topps Chuck Stobbs Card

The world of baseball is filled with legendary players and iconic cards that serve as a testament to the rich history of the sport. One such card is the 1952 Topps Chuck Stobbs, card number 62. This article will provide an in-depth look into the life and career of Chuck Stobbs, the man behind the card. We will explore his personal life, MLB career, and the estimated value of this sought-after baseball card.

Chuck Stobbs – The Early Years

Charles Klein Stobbs, known as Chuck Stobbs, was born on July 2, 1929, in Wheeling, West Virginia. From an early age, Chuck showed a keen interest in baseball and quickly developed his skills as a left-handed pitcher. He attended Granby High School in Norfolk, Virginia, where he continued to hone his abilities on the baseball field. Stobbs' performance caught the eye of scouts, and in 1947, at the young age of 17, he signed with the Boston Red Sox as an amateur free agent.

Major League Baseball Career

Chuck Stobbs had a long and storied career in the MLB, spanning 15 seasons from 1947 to 1961. Throughout his career, he played for four different teams: the Boston Red Sox, Chicago White Sox, Washington Senators, and Minnesota Twins. Stobbs was known for his impressive pitching abilities, especially his skill as a left-handed starter.

Here are some key stats from Chuck Stobbs' MLB career:

- Win-Loss Record: 107-130

- Earned Run Average (ERA): 4.29

- Innings Pitched: 2,206.1

- Strikeouts: 1,046

- Complete Games: 91

- Shutouts: 12

Stobbs' career had its share of highlights, including pitching a one-hit shutout against the New York Yankees in 1952. His prowess on the mound, combined with a strong work ethic, made him a valuable asset to his teams throughout his career. However, Stobbs is perhaps best known for giving up what is often referred to as "the longest home run in history." On April 17, 1953, while pitching for the Washington Senators, Stobbs threw a pitch that New York Yankees slugger Mickey Mantle crushed out of Griffith Stadium. The ball reportedly traveled 565 feet before finally coming to rest in a nearby yard.

Personal Life

Off the field, Chuck Stobbs led a quiet and reserved life. He married his wife, Mary Lou, and together they had three children: Charles Jr., Thomas, and Cynthia. Stobbs was known for being a loving and devoted husband and father. After retiring from professional baseball in 1961, he remained active in his community and devoted time to coaching and mentoring young athletes.

1952 Topps Chuck Stobbs – Card Number 62

In 1952, Topps released their first-ever set of baseball cards, which would go on to become one of the most iconic and sought-after card sets in the hobby. Chuck Stobbs' card, number 62, features a beautiful color portrait of the young pitcher set against a vibrant red background. The card also displays his name, team, and position in bold white lettering.

The 1952 Topps set was revolutionary for its time, as it introduced the concept of including player statistics and biographical information on the back of each card. This innovation allowed fans to learn more about their favorite players and gain a deeper appreciation for their on-field accomplishments. The reverse side of Stobbs' card features his personal information, a brief biography, a cartoon illustration related to his career, and his stats up to the 1951 season.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Chuck Stobbs Card

The value of any vintage baseball card can vary significantly depending on factors such as condition, rarity, and demand among collectors. The 1952 Topps Chuck Stobbs card is no exception. In general, the card is considered to be relatively common within the 1952 Topps set. However, due to the historical significance and popularity of the set as a whole, even common cards like Stobbs' can still fetch a premium price.

Estimated values for the 1952 Topps Chuck Stobbs card can vary greatly depending on the card's condition:

- Poor to Fair Condition: $10-$30

- Good to Very Good Condition: $30-$70

- Excellent to Near Mint Condition: $70-$250

- Mint Condition: $250-$800

It's essential to keep in mind that these are just estimated values, and the actual price a card might sell for can differ based on various factors. Cards that are professionally graded by trusted companies such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) can command even higher values, as the grading process provides assurance of the card's authenticity and condition.

The 1952 Topps Chuck Stobbs card is a fascinating piece of baseball history, representing the life and career of a talented and dedicated MLB pitcher. With a long career that spanned multiple teams, Stobbs made his mark on the baseball world and left behind a legacy of hard work and perseverance. The 1952 Topps set itself holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, and the Chuck Stobbs card is a cherished piece of that iconic set. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual baseball fan, the story of Chuck Stobbs and his 1952 Topps card is a testament to the passion and dedication that define the great American pastime.