Continuing to clear out my scan folder from last year, these three cards are notable for their imagery. And while only one was issued in 2018, I picked all three up last summer.
So, let's start with the 2018 card. Yoshihiro Maru got a "Secret" image variation card in BBM's 2nd Version set, and I pulled the silver signature parallel from one of the packs I opened. It's a great image because it's unique, and framed really well.
This is a promo card featuring a manga character. I really like it, despite not being a "real" baseball card, since the artwork is interesting. What exactly is happening here? Is that a rose or some other flower between his lips? Is he spitting tobacco juice? I've never seen a full, complete set of these cards, though I come across singles from time to time.
Finally... this. Many might disagree with chopping off Justin Verlander's head and replacing it with a pitching machine hidden under a giant baseball with eyes, and several will raise concerns about the pitcher having a bat of his own to attack the hitters.
Love the mascot card!
ReplyDeleteExcept it's not a mascot! He's Yakyu Kamen, a villain from one of those superhero shows. Himitsu Sentai Gorenger (秘密戦隊ゴレンジャー) from the mid-1970s. They look a lot like the other Power Rangers/Super Sentai.
DeleteOh dang, I see it now. Ha! I totally thought he was a team mascot.
DeleteI can appreciate the uniqueness of #2 and #3... but that Maru card takes the cake. The photography on that card makes that a contender for best card of 2018. I think this is one of the rare times that I'd actually want the non-parallel version of a card.
ReplyDeleteI think NPB Card Guy has every regular base card from 2018. If not, he must be close. He could/should do a "best of" post!
ReplyDeleteWell I did pick a favorite 2018 card for P-town Tom's contest - it was a different Carp card.
DeleteI think I only have one "secret" parallel from 2018. I may have to find the Maru one though - that's a sharp looking card.