30 Day Baseball Card Challenge

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Okay Kids... Today's Lesson = Never Give Up!

By now I'm sure you've read or heard about Jason Lane's impressive MLB return this past Tuesday evening.

If not, watch this:


Even if I wasn't a Padres fan, I'd be impressed with his impressive MLB comeback that's been almost seven years in the making.  The last time he played at the Major League level, he was an outfielder back in 2007.  Since then he's spent the bulk of that time at the AAA level for numerous MLB teams.  Fast forward to Tuesday when he replaced Jesse Hahn on the mound in the top of the 4th.  He then proceeded to retire all ten batters he faced in the Padres' loss to the Pirates.

Who knows what the future holds in store for Mr. Lane.  But one thing is for sure... it's a great comeback story whatever the outcome.

I found a pair of Jason Lane cards sitting in one of my trade bait boxes.  The first one is a really cool memorabilia card out of 2002 Fleer Box Score:


In an era where memorabilia cards have lost its luster among many collectors, I actually applaud Fleer and their creative use of actual USA Today Baseball Weekly box scores from the player's debut game.


Unfortunately... Fleer screwed up.  Lane actually made his MLB debut on May 10th, 2002... instead of on the 11th.


It doesn't matter.  It's the thought that counts.  Next up is this sweet memorabilia card from 2002 Leaf Certified:


I only own a handful of patch cards and it's probably safe to say that this is coolest of the bunch.

Congratulations Jason on your amazing comeback!  When I heard your story, this song immediately popped into my head:


Happy Thursday and sayonara!

9 comments:

Tony L. said...

Awesome cards. I think I had Lane on a fantasy team at some point in my outfield!

Commishbob said...

I remember him from the Astros, I had no idea he was still plugging away. And as a pitcher!

Dawgbones said...

Maybe they should've had him start the game!! I like seeing the older players still being successful (being an older person myself now!)

Fuji said...

I didn't know either... until I watched the highlights from that game.

Fuji said...

I know. Hahn got rocked, but it'll be interesting to see how Lane pitches over the course of the season.

Greg Zakwin said...

That's quite the story. Would have been nice if any of the major sports shows had covered it. Hearing about it now for the first time.

Mark Hoyle said...

Great story... It's what makes the game great

Jafronius said...

Name sounded familiar, and it clicked when I saw him in the Astros jersey. Very nice story. However, a box score for memorabilia? So basically a Fleer intern cut up a newspaper...ok, cool.

Fuji said...

lol... guess different strokes for different folks