1952 Topps Eddie Stanky Card

An Introduction to Eddie Stanky

Edward Raymond Stanky, commonly known as Eddie Stanky, was one of Major League Baseball's most accomplished personalities. Born on September 3, 1915, Stanky grew up to be a highly skilled second baseman and a talented manager. He left a lasting legacy in Major League Baseball (MLB) with a career that spanned over 15 years, demonstrating remarkable skill and talent in every game he played.

His significant contributions and vibrant energy in the league led to his immense popularity, immortalized in baseball card collections worldwide. Among these, the 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky card number 76 stands out as an emblem of his greatness.

Career Highlights and Statistics

Stanky played for four teams throughout his MLB career — the Chicago Cubs, the Brooklyn Dodgers, the Boston Braves, and the New York Giants. Here are some of the key stats from his career:

- He started his MLB career in 1943 with the Chicago Cubs.

- He had a batting average of .268.

- His career included 29 home runs.

- He showcased his batting prowess with 364 runs batted in (RBIs).

- He stole 48 bases in his career, demonstrating his speed and agility on the field.

- He walked 996 times, showing his patience at the plate and his sharp eye for the strike zone.

- He retired from playing in 1953, ending his impressive career with the St. Louis Cardinals.

- After retiring as a player, he served as a manager from 1955 to 1958 and from 1966 to 1973.

Stanky's phenomenal career left a mark in the annals of MLB history. His impressive statistics underpin his reputation as one of baseball's greats.

Eddie Stanky's Personal Life

Off the field, Stanky led a relatively quiet life. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Stanky was the son of Polish immigrants. His family faced financial hardships, and Eddie had to work from a young age to support them. Despite these early challenges, his passion for baseball remained undiminished.

He married Myrtle Holda, and the couple had two children. After his retirement from professional baseball, Stanky moved to Mobile, Alabama, where he lived the remainder of his life.

Stanky's commitment to baseball didn't end with his professional career. He became a significant figure in college baseball, serving as the head coach at the University of South Alabama from 1969 to 1983. His coaching career reflected the same dedication and skill he demonstrated as a player, making him a respected figure in college baseball.

The 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky Card

The 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky card is a treasure for baseball card collectors worldwide. It is a vivid reminder of Stanky's successful career and a token of baseball history.

As card number 76, it's part of the first series in the 1952 Topps set, which is one of the most coveted baseball card sets due to its colorful and attractive design. It features a portrait of Stanky in his New York Giants uniform, creating a sense of nostalgia for a golden era of baseball.

Estimated Value of the 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky Card

The value of vintage baseball cards like the 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky varies greatly based on condition and rarity. As of 2023, a 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky card in good condition is estimated to be worth anywhere from $100 to $200. If the card is in mint condition and well-preserved, its value can significantly increase, possibly reaching up to $1,000.

However, the value isn't only determined by the condition but also by the rarity and the sentiment attached to it. Stanky's card, especially, is a testament to an era of baseball filled with great players and memorable moments.

In the world of sports memorabilia, scarcity often leads to increased prices. Though not the rarest card in the 1952 Topps set, the Eddie Stanky card has seen considerable interest from collectors due to his solid career statistics and impact on the game. 

A Tribute to a Baseball Icon

The 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky card serves as a tribute to one of the most influential figures in the MLB. Eddie Stanky's skill on the field, his commitment to the sport, and his impact as a manager and coach are immortalized in this baseball card. 

Whether held by a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, this card is more than just a piece of cardboard. It's a piece of baseball history and a tribute to one of the most respected players of his era. 

The Legacy of Eddie Stanky

Eddie Stanky passed away on June 6, 1999, but his legacy continues to thrive through his impressive career stats, the players he coached, and the many memories preserved in baseball history. 

Today, his 1952 Topps card serves as a tangible reminder of his contribution to the sport. It allows fans and collectors to own a piece of that legacy, connecting them directly to the history and spirit of Major League Baseball.

Whether you're a collector, a baseball fan, or simply a lover of sports history, owning the 1952 Topps Eddie Stanky card is an opportunity to remember and celebrate a remarkable figure in the world of baseball.