Topps just announced that they’re releasing a “Pride & Perseverance” special insert set in their latest update series, the purpose of which is to “celebrate Major League players from the past and present, who have triumphed in spite of disabilities that have come their way.”
Included in the set:
- Cubs pitcher Jon Lester and first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who are both cancer survivors;
- Giants pitcher Jake Peavy, who is legally blind without his corrective lenses, which I don’t think I ever knew;
- Astros outfielder George Springer, who has overcome stuttering, also something I didn’t know;
- Mets reliever Buddy Carlyle, and A’s outfielder Sam Fuld, each of whom have diabetes;
- Yankees and Angels pitcher Jim Abbott, who threw a no-hitter in 1993 and had a fine overall career, despite being born without his right hand;
- Former Phillies, Royals and Marlins outfielder Jim Eisenreich, who played 15 years in MLB after overcoming Tourette’s syndrome;
- Former outfielders Curtis Pride and William Hoy, each of whom played despite being deaf; and
- St. Louis Browns outfielder Pete Gray who played despite having lost an arm in a childhood accident.
In a statement issued by Topps, its VP & General Manager, David Leiner said “These men had to overcome great odds to not only make it to the Majors, but at times with what could have been a disadvantage. Instead, they are an inspiration and we are honored to showcase them in our product.”
Very nice move, Topps. They’re on sale today. Go out and get ‘em.