1952 Topps Jim Hegan Card

The 1952 Topps Baseball card series is one of the most iconic and highly sought-after sets of baseball cards in the history of the hobby. Among the treasures in this set is card number 17, featuring Cleveland Indians catcher Jim Hegan. This article will delve into the life and career of Jim Hegan, his Major League Baseball (MLB) statistics, and the estimated value of his 1952 Topps baseball card.

Jim Hegan: The Man Behind the Mask

James Edward Hegan, more commonly known as Jim Hegan, was born on August 3, 1920, in Lynn, Massachusetts. He was a highly skilled defensive catcher who played in the MLB for 17 seasons. Jim Hegan was known for his strong and accurate arm, as well as his adept handling of pitchers. His exceptional defensive abilities made him a valuable asset to his teams and earned him a place in baseball history.

Hegan began his professional baseball career in 1938 when he signed with the Cleveland Indians. After spending several years in the minor leagues, he made his MLB debut on April 22, 1941. However, his career was briefly interrupted when he served in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. Upon his return in 1946, Hegan resumed his career with the Cleveland Indians, where he played the majority of his 17-season MLB tenure.

Throughout his career, Hegan played for the Cleveland Indians (1941, 1946-1957), Detroit Tigers (1958), Philadelphia Phillies (1958), San Francisco Giants (1959), and Chicago Cubs (1960). He was a five-time American League All-Star, earning selections in 1947, 1949, 1950, 1951, and 1952.

Jim Hegan's MLB Stats

Jim Hegan's baseball career was marked by impressive defensive statistics, as well as respectable offensive contributions. Here are some key stats from his MLB career:

• Games played: 1,666

• At-bats: 4,877

• Runs scored: 429

• Hits: 1,087

• Doubles: 193

• Triples: 31

• Home runs: 92

• Runs batted in: 525

• Walks: 612

• Strikeouts: 697

• Batting average: .228

• On-base percentage: .306

• Slugging percentage: .343

• Fielding percentage: .989

• Caught stealing percentage: 45.8%

• Total chances: 9,181

• Putouts: 8,518

• Assists: 612

• Errors: 51

• Double plays: 68

Notably, Hegan's defensive skills were highly regarded by his peers and baseball analysts. His .989 fielding percentage and 45.8% caught stealing percentage are testaments to his prowess behind the plate. In addition to his five All-Star appearances, Hegan also played in two World Series with the Cleveland Indians, winning the championship in 1948.

1952 Topps Jim Hegan Card

The 1952 Topps Jim Hegan card, number 17 in the set, features a colorized photograph of Hegan set against a bright red background. Hegan is depicted wearing his catcher's gear, highlighting his primary position on the field. The card's design also includes his name, team, and position in white text. The reverse side of the card features biographical information, a brief write-up about Hegan's career, and a trivia question related to his statistics.

Estimated Value of Jim Hegan 1952 Topps Card

The value of a 1952 Topps Jim Hegan card can vary significantly depending on its condition, centering, and overall eye appeal. High-quality, professionally graded examples of this card can command premium prices in the market, while lesser-quality examples may still be attainable for more budget-conscious collectors.

Here is a general breakdown of the estimated value of a 1952 Topps Jim Hegan card based on its condition and grading:

• Gem Mint (graded 10 by PSA): Estimated value of over $10,000

• Mint (graded 9 by PSA): Estimated value of $2,500 - $5,000

• Near Mint-Mint (graded 8 by PSA): Estimated value of $500 - $1,000

• Near Mint (graded 7 by PSA): Estimated value of $200 - $400

• Excellent-Mint (graded 6 by PSA): Estimated value of $100 - $200

• Excellent (graded 5 by PSA): Estimated value of $50 - $100

• Very Good-Excellent (graded 4 by PSA): Estimated value of $25 - $50

• Very Good (graded 3 by PSA): Estimated value of $10 - $25

• Good (graded 2 by PSA): Estimated value of $5 - $10

• Poor to Fair (graded 1 by PSA): Estimated value of under $5

It's important to note that these values are approximate and can fluctuate based on various factors such as the overall demand in the market, recent sales, and the card's specific characteristics. Also, ungraded cards or cards graded by other companies may have different values.

The 1952 Topps Jim Hegan card, number 17 in the set, serves as a testament to the outstanding career of one of baseball's most skilled defensive catchers. While his offensive statistics may not be as gaudy as some of his contemporaries, Hegan's defensive prowess and ability to manage his pitching staff were integral to his team's success. Collectors and fans alike can appreciate the historical significance and visual appeal of this iconic baseball card, with its value reflecting its place in baseball history.