#305 Paul Richards
Progress: 1st of this card
278 of 407 68.3% complete
How acquired: $9.50 on ebay
Condition: Very Good
The managers have some of the nicer looking cards in this set. This Paul Richards only adds to that argument. The detail in the coloring is really incredible compared to the vast majority of the other cards in 1952 Topps. Also, and I could be wrong, but that looks like a reporter standing next to him. It's definitely a guy in a fedora and suit. Working on my theory that it's a reporter, Richards cuffed hand gives the impression he could be saying some things he doesn't want overheard. But who knows. In any event, It's a great looking card.
Richards spent 8 years as a catcher in the majors from 1932 to 1946. Some quick math suggests that span is far more than 8 years, which it is. He was out of MLB from 1936-43, and only returned when there was a shortage of players due to the war. Despite his age and absence, he still managed to lead all catchers in fielding percentage. His BB-Reference page is littered with appearances on various leader boards for defensive catching categories.
Stats: 8 seasons, 321 hits, 15 home runs, .221 avg.; World Series Ring with Detroit in 1945 (went 4 for 19 with 6 RBI in 7 games)
Manager: 12 seasons, 923 wins, 901 losses
Best Hall of Fame Showing: N/A
There's something very aesthetically pleasing about this card.
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