Sunday, January 16, 2011

2008 Topps Allen & Ginter Jered Weaver



Who is this? Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim pitcher Jered Weaver
What is this? An autographed card from the 2008 Topps Allen & Ginter set
Where'd I get it? I purchased it from Anthony, formerly of Mike Pelfrey Collectibles, when he decided to sell his collection last year.


Why is this so special? Few people realize it, but Jered Weaver signed his first professional contract with the Camden Riversharks of the Atlantic League in 2005. The Angels made Weaver the 12th overall pick in the 2004 draft, but he and his agent Scott Boras decided to hold out until the last possible moment to secure their best deal. Part of their strategy was having Weaver join the independent league team.

Weaver quickly made it to the majors in 2006 after just a couple dozen minor league appearances. He finished his rookie year with an 11-2 record and a 2.56 ERA. He has continued to enjoy success.

Last year, Weaver made the All-Star team for the first time. He had a 13-12 record, but pitched much better than that mark indicates. His had a 3.01 ERA, an Adjusted ERA+ of 135 and led the American League with 233 strikeouts.

Weaver's autograph is little more than a sloppy "J" and some loops.

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