Before the article, I knew Oliva had very respectable career numbers that would sometimes lead to his name being entered into HOF discussions. However I had no idea just how impressive his rookie numbers were... nor did I understand just how mentally tough this guy was.
The article actually motivated me to add an autograph of his to my wish list. It took a little longer than expected, but I finally won this card off of eBay:
2004 Sweet Spot Classic Signatures #63
To be honest, I was a little shocked at how much his signature sells for. There are plenty of hall of famers whose autographs sell for less than Oliva. And although I spent a little more than originally anticipated ($22.83 + $2.75 shipping)... at the end of the day, I'm happy to add this to my collection.
Okay... it's your turn. I was born one decade too late to truly appreciate Mr. Oliva.
Any of you have fond memories of him?
Happy Tuesday and sayonara!
I live in Minneapolis, and Oliva is in town regularly for various Twins events. He was even at a card show a few months ago, just hanging out in the shop, chatting with anyone that wandered in. It was so casual that I think a lot of people didn't realize that he was there. He's a pretty funny guy and he seemed to be having a great time.
ReplyDeleteI missed seeing him at TwinsFest this year, but he was signing autographs with Rod Carew on one of the days. He's still a big hit in Minnesota, a living legend.
In Game One of the very first AL Playoff game, 1969 in Baltimore he hit a two run homer in the top of the seventh to put the Twins ahead 3-2. That ball landed just behind me, a few rows up in the right field stands. Luckily Boog Powell tied it up in the ninth and the O's won in the 12th on Paul Blair's squeeze bunt.
ReplyDeleteThat game was an awesome experience. It was also my first and last 'blind date'. LOL Actually I had know the girl since we were toddlers but I hadn't seen her in years. She was the staunchest baseball fan I'd ever met, of either gender!
I met Oliva in 1987 or 1988, when he was serving as a coach for the Twins. He was a really nice guy and signed autographs for everyone who asked. I got his autograph on a Twins sticker with Kent Hrbek, Tom Brunansky, and...Al Woods. Kirby Puckett signed my other Twins sticker, unfortunately!
ReplyDeleteI met Oliva in 1987 or 1988, when he was serving as a coach for the Twins. He was a really nice guy and signed autographs for everyone who asked. I got his autograph on a Twins sticker with Kent Hrbek, Tom Brunansky, and...Al Woods. Kirby Puckett signed my other Twins sticker, unfortunately!
ReplyDeleteI missed Oliva's playing days as well but always have thought of him as an under-appreciated star. I was able to score an auto of his recently as well due to the stories I have heard about him.
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