2005 Topps Heritage Johnny Podres

Who is this? Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Johnny Podres.

What is this? An autograph card from the 2005 Topps Heritage Team Topps insert set, card TT-JP

Where'd I get it? Out of a pack of 2005 Topps Heritage pulled from Champion Sports Cards in Kennesaw, GA.

How much did it cost? The price of a pack of Heritage, about $3.50 or so.

Why is this so special? I normally don't like pulling shiny cards out of Heritage products, but in this case I'll make an exception. Johnny was a long time pitcher for the Dodgers who will always be best known for defeating the Yankees in the 7th game of the 1955 World Series, bringing Brooklyn their only championship. Podres had a fantastic changeup and went on to teach it as a successful pitching coach after his playing days were over. Sadly, Podres passed away yesterday at the age of 75. Unfortunately in our hobby this is often seen as an opportunity to change the price tag on the card. The $6.00 price tag on this card was stuck on an old top loader I recycled to protect my great pull. It will not be changed. So long, ya bum.