1952 Topps Ed Lopat Card

For baseball card collectors and enthusiasts, the 1952 Topps Ed Lopat card is a prized possession that holds significant historical value. Card number 57 in the iconic 1952 Topps set, this card features a man whose career spanned over a decade in Major League Baseball, earning him accolades and admiration from both teammates and opponents. In this article, we'll delve into the life of Ed Lopat, his impressive career statistics, and the value of this coveted baseball card.

Ed Lopat: The Man Behind the Card

Born on June 21, 1918, in New York City, Edmund Walter Lopatynski—better known as Ed Lopat—grew up in a Polish-American household. From a young age, Lopat displayed a passion and talent for baseball. He attended James Monroe High School, where he excelled as a pitcher, before going on to play semi-professional and minor league baseball. His determination and skill would ultimately lead him to a remarkable career in the major leagues.

Major League Baseball Career

Ed Lopat's MLB career began in 1944 when he joined the Chicago White Sox. He spent four seasons with the team, but it wasn't until he was traded to the New York Yankees in 1948 that his career truly blossomed. Lopat's ten seasons with the Yankees from 1948 to 1957 were nothing short of extraordinary. As a key member of the starting rotation, he helped the Yankees clinch five consecutive World Series titles from 1949 to 1953.

Career MLB Baseball Stats

Here's a summary of Ed Lopat's MLB career statistics:

- Win-Loss Record: 166-112

- Earned Run Average (ERA): 3.21

- Strikeouts: 859

- Complete Games: 162

- Shutouts: 27

- Innings Pitched: 2,439.2

- All-Star Selections: 3 (1951, 1952, 1953)

- World Series Titles: 5 (1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953)

These stats reflect Lopat's consistency and skill as a pitcher, as well as his importance in helping the Yankees maintain their dominance throughout the early 1950s.

Post-Playing Career and Personal Life

After retiring from playing in 1957, Ed Lopat took on various coaching and scouting roles. He served as a pitching coach for the Kansas City Athletics, the Minnesota Twins, and the Seattle Pilots. Lopat later worked as a scout for the Montreal Expos and the Chicago White Sox.

Outside of baseball, Ed Lopat was known for his calm demeanor and intelligence. He was a well-read individual who took great interest in politics and history. Lopat passed away on June 15, 1992, in Darien, Connecticut, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be cherished by baseball fans.

The 1952 Topps Ed Lopat Card

The 1952 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic and sought-after collections in the hobby. Featuring 407 cards, it was the first Topps set to include statistics and player biographies on the reverse side of the card. The beautiful artwork and innovative design made it a game-changer in the world of baseball cards.

Card number 57, featuring Ed Lopat, is a prime example of the quality and attention to detail that made this set so popular. The card's front side displays a stunning color illustration of Lopat in his Yankees uniform, with the team logo in the bottom left corner and his name and position at the bottom. The reverse side includes Lopat's personal information, a brief biography, and his career statistics up to the 1951 season.

Value of the 1952 Topps Ed Lopat Card

The value of the 1952 Topps Ed Lopat card can vary significantly based on factors such as condition, centering, and overall eye appeal. Cards in mint or near-mint condition can command higher prices, while those with creases, stains, or other visible flaws may be worth less. Additionally, cards that have been professionally graded by reputable companies like PSA or SGC tend to fetch higher prices than ungraded cards.

In recent years, the 1952 Topps Ed Lopat card has seen a steady increase in value. As of 2021, ungraded cards in good condition can range from $30 to $60, while graded cards in near-mint condition can fetch anywhere from $200 to $400 or more. Cards in mint condition or higher are extremely rare and can command significantly higher prices, potentially reaching thousands of dollars.

The 1952 Topps Ed Lopat card is a cherished piece of baseball history that pays tribute to one of the game's most talented and respected pitchers. Ed Lopat's impressive career, spanning over a decade in the major leagues, is immortalized in this iconic card. His contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, are a testament to his passion for the game.

For collectors, the 1952 Topps Ed Lopat card holds significant sentimental and monetary value. Its beautiful design, detailed illustrations, and comprehensive player information make it a standout among baseball cards of the era. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual baseball fan, owning a piece of history like the 1952 Topps Ed Lopat card is a unique and rewarding experience.