Braves Collection: Dave Nicholson

1967 Topps

Here's an example where I can understand why Topps doesn't have a picture of the guy in a Braves uniform. In 1967, Nicholson saw action in 10 games for the Braves. He was purchased by the Royals after the season, and would never play in the big leagues again.

These days, of course, Nicholson wouldn't merit a card from Topps. No, Topps would rather make sure that every star gets at least 5 cards across the 3 series of the base set. I mean, if they can't fit in a guy who had 291 plate appearances for the Braves last year (yes ... I'm bitching about the lack of an Eric Hinske Braves card again), how would Topps manage to fit in a guy with 29 at-bats?

There was a time when cards could be used to study the history of the game. Those days have ended. The message is clear. Just like the NBA and the NFL, in MLB, you are either a superstar, a prospect, or irrelevant. That's a shame.