1952 Topps Eddie Joost Card

In the world of baseball cards, few are as fascinating and historically significant as the 1952 Topps Eddie Joost card, card number 45. This iconic card features the image of a man who made a lasting impression on the game of baseball, both as a player and as a manager. Although he is not as well-known as some of his contemporaries, Eddie Joost was a skilled player and a dedicated team member. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Eddie Joost, discuss his impressive MLB stats, and provide an estimated value for his 1952 Topps card.

Eddie Joost: The Man Behind the Card

Edwin David Joost, better known as Eddie Joost, was born on June 5, 1916, in San Francisco, California. A talented infielder, Joost began his professional baseball career in 1936 when he joined the Pacific Coast League's Oakland Oaks. He caught the eye of MLB scouts and was signed by the Cincinnati Reds in 1939, making his major league debut on April 22 that same year.

Throughout his career, Joost played for several MLB teams, including the Reds, the Boston Braves, the Philadelphia Athletics, and the Boston Red Sox. His most successful years came with the Athletics, where he played from 1947 to 1954. Joost was known for his defensive prowess, particularly at the shortstop position, and his exceptional on-base skills as a hitter. He was a two-time All-Star, appearing in the Midsummer Classic in 1949 and 1952.

After retiring as a player, Joost transitioned into coaching and managing roles. He spent time as a coach with the Red Sox and the New York Mets, eventually becoming a minor league manager for the Mets organization. He later scouted for several MLB teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Kansas City Royals. Joost passed away on April 12, 2011, at the age of 94.

Eddie Joost's MLB Stats

To truly appreciate the talent and skill of Eddie Joost, let's take a look at some of his notable MLB statistics:

• Games Played: 1,574

• At-bats: 5,113

• Hits: 1,233

• Home Runs: 134

• Runs Batted In: 601

• Batting Average: .241

• On-base Percentage: .361

• Slugging Percentage: .366

• Runs Scored: 874

• Doubles: 195

• Triples: 23

• Walks: 1,043

• Stolen Bases: 89

• Total Bases: 1,872

• Fielding Percentage (Shortstop): .970

• All-Star Appearances: 2 (1949 and 1952)

Eddie Joost's Personal Life

Off the field, Eddie Joost was known as a quiet, private individual. He married his wife, Dolly, and the couple had two children, a son named Eddie Jr. and a daughter named Diane. Despite his reserved nature, Joost was well-respected by his peers and was known for his intelligence and strong work ethic. He also showed a commitment to community service, participating in various charitable activities throughout his life.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Eddie Joost Card

The 1952 Topps Eddie Joost card, card number 45, holds a special place in the hearts of baseball card collectors. As part of the iconic 1952 Topps set, the card is sought after by collectors for its historical significance and the appealing design that has come to define that era of baseball cards. The card features a color photograph of Joost, a simple yet bold design, and his name and team prominently displayed on the front.

The value of a 1952 Topps Eddie Joost card can vary greatly depending on its condition, rarity, and demand among collectors. Cards that are in mint or near-mint condition are, of course, more valuable than those with noticeable wear and tear. Additionally, cards that have been professionally graded by reputable organizations such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or SGC (Sportscard Guaranty) tend to command higher prices.

As of 2023, the estimated value for an ungraded 1952 Topps Eddie Joost card in good to very good condition ranges from $20 to $50. Cards in excellent condition can be valued between $100 and $200, while cards in near-mint or better condition may fetch upwards of $300 or more. Professionally graded cards, particularly those with high grades (PSA 8 or above), can command significantly higher prices, sometimes reaching into the thousands of dollars.

It is important to note that these values are only estimates and are subject to change based on market conditions, the specific card in question, and the preferences of individual collectors. If you are considering buying or selling a 1952 Topps Eddie Joost card, it's wise to research recent sales data and consult with experienced collectors or dealers to get the most accurate valuation possible.

The 1952 Topps Eddie Joost card is a testament to the talent and dedication of one of baseball's unsung heroes. Joost's impressive career as a player, coach, and scout left an indelible mark on the game and earned him the admiration of his peers and fans alike. While he may not be a household name like some of his contemporaries, Eddie Joost's contributions to the sport of baseball are undeniable. For collectors, the 1952 Topps Eddie Joost card serves as both a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era and a tribute to a true baseball legend.