In 1979, the baseball world was introduced to a young shortstop named Ozzie Smith. The St. Louis Cardinals had acquired him from the San Diego Padres in a trade the previous year, and fans were eager to see what this dynamic player could do.
One of the first things that caught people’s attention was Smith’s defensive prowess. He was quick, athletic, and had an incredible ability to make difficult plays look effortless. His incredible range and flashy style of play earned him the nickname “The Wizard” and made him an instant fan favorite.
But it wasn’t just his defense that made Smith stand out. He was also a solid hitter, consistently batting over .300 throughout his career. In 1979, his first full season with the Cardinals, he had a batting average of .258 and 3 home runs. While these numbers may not seem impressive, they were just a glimpse of what was to come.
It was during this season that Topps released their annual set of baseball cards, and Smith’s rookie card, #116, was among them. The card featured a young Smith in his Cardinals uniform, ready to make his mark on the league.
Today, Smith’s 1979 Topps card is highly sought after by collectors, especially those in top condition. One such card that has recently gained attention is the 1979 Topps Ozzie Smith #116 graded 7 by PSA.
For those unfamiliar with the grading system, PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is the leading third-party grading and authentication service for sports cards. The scale ranges from 1-10, with 10 being a card in pristine condition. A grade of 7 indicates a very high quality card with just minor flaws.
So why is this particular card garnering attention from collectors and fans? Firstly, it is a rare find in such great condition. The 1979 Topps set is known for having print defects, making high-grade cards hard to come by. The fact that this card has been graded a 7 by PSA is a testament to its impeccable condition.
Additionally, the card represents a significant moment in Smith’s career, as it marks his rookie card. It also showcases his early years with the Cardinals, a team he would go on to play with for 15 seasons and become a beloved icon for.
Lastly, Smith’s induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002 further adds to the value and desirability of his rookie card. As one of the greatest defensive players in baseball history, his card has become a must-have for serious collectors.
In conclusion, the 1979 Topps Ozzie Smith #116 graded 7 by PSA is a highly coveted piece of baseball memorabilia. Not only does it represent the beginning of a legendary career, but it also captures a pivotal moment in baseball history. For fans and collectors alike, this card is a true gem and a reminder of the impact “The Wizard” had on the game.