1952 Topps Johnny Pesky Card

Johnny Pesky was a standout Major League Baseball player, best known for his time spent with the Boston Red Sox. He was an impressive infielder, and although he may not have achieved the same level of fame as other players from his era, Pesky remains a legend in the hearts of many baseball enthusiasts. One of the most iconic pieces of memorabilia associated with Pesky is his 1952 Topps card, which has become a prized possession for collectors. In this article, we'll dive into the history and legacy of Johnny Pesky, explore his remarkable MLB statistics, and provide an estimated value for his 1952 Topps card.

Who Was Johnny Pesky?

Born on September 27, 1919, in Portland, Oregon, John Michael Paveskovich, later known as Johnny Pesky, was a talented and dedicated baseball player who made a significant impact on the sport during his time in the Major Leagues. Pesky's professional baseball career began in 1940 when he signed with the Boston Red Sox. After a short stint in the minor leagues, Pesky made his Major League debut in 1942.

Pesky primarily played as a shortstop and third baseman throughout his career, which spanned from 1942 to 1954. Although his time in the MLB was interrupted by a three-year break to serve in World War II, Pesky quickly re-established himself as a valuable player upon his return. He was known for his excellent contact hitting and superb defensive skills, earning him the nickname "Mr. Red Sox."

Johnny Pesky's MLB Stats

Johnny Pesky's MLB career statistics are quite impressive, particularly when considering the three-year interruption due to his military service. Here are some of the key numbers from his time in the league:

• Games played: 1,270

• At-bats: 4,745

• Hits: 1,455

• Batting average: .307

• Home runs: 17

• Runs batted in (RBIs): 404

• Stolen bases: 53

• Walks: 609

• On-base percentage (OBP): .394

• Slugging percentage (SLG): .386

Despite never winning a World Series title during his playing career, Pesky was honored by the Red Sox organization in various ways. His number 6 was retired by the team in 2008, and a foul pole in Fenway Park was named "Pesky's Pole" in his honor.

The 1952 Topps Johnny Pesky Card - Card Number 15

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is an iconic and highly sought-after collection among card collectors and baseball enthusiasts. The set features 407 cards and is known for its beautiful design and vibrant colors. Card number 15 in this set features Johnny Pesky, making it a prized possession for fans of both Pesky and the Red Sox.

The front of the card showcases a close-up portrait of Pesky, along with an action shot of him fielding a ground ball. The card's design also includes a facsimile autograph, Pesky's name, and his team affiliation. The back of the card features a short biography, a cartoon-style illustration, and a rundown of Pesky's previous season statistics.

Estimated Value of Johnny Pesky's 1952 Topps Card

The value of Johnny Pesky's 1952 Topps card largely depends on its condition, which is typically assessed using a grading scale from 1 (poor) to 10 (gem mint). Several factors can impact a card's grade, including its centering, corners, edges,

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surface, and overall appearance. A card's rarity, demand, and historical significance can also influence its value.

Based on recent sales and market trends, a general estimation of Johnny Pesky's 1952 Topps card value can be provided as follows:

• Poor (grade 1): $25 - $50

• Fair (grade 2): $50 - $100

• Good (grade 3): $100 - $200

• Very Good (grade 4): $200 - $300

• Excellent (grade 5): $300 - $500

• Excellent-Mint (grade 6): $500 - $800

• Near Mint (grade 7): $800 - $1,200

• Near Mint-Mint (grade 8): $1,200 - $2,000

• Mint (grade 9): $2,000 - $4,000

• Gem Mint (grade 10): $4,000 - $8,000

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific card and current market conditions. Additionally, cards with special attributes, such as autographs, limited editions, or unique printing defects, can command higher prices.

Johnny Pesky was a remarkable baseball player who made a lasting impact on the sport and the Boston Red Sox organization. His 1952 Topps card, card number 15, serves as a tangible reminder of Pesky's talent, dedication, and contributions to the game. As a cherished collectible, this card holds both sentimental and financial value for fans and collectors alike.

Whether you're a long-time collector, a devoted Red Sox fan, or simply someone who appreciates the rich history of baseball, owning a Johnny Pesky 1952 Topps card is a way to connect with the sport's past and honor the legacy of an exceptional player. While the card's value can vary significantly based on its condition, it remains a sought-after piece of baseball memorabilia that will undoubtedly continue to be treasured for years to come.