64 - Jeff Branson

64 - Jeff Branson

Front photo: Throwing.

Back photo: Batting.

Better photo?: Neither is spectacular, but I'll give the nod to the back for the hint of a sleeve logo.

Ties to my personal collections: None.

Paragraphs in wikipedia entry: 4

Wiki-facts: "On November 18, 2013, Branson was named hitting coach of the Pittsburgh Pirates." He's still there.

Google it: The only reference to this Jeff Branson on the first page of results is the link to his baseball-reference page. Most are for a soap opera actor.

How was his stike shortened 1994? Batted .284 for 6 HR and 16 RBI over 109 AB.

Birthday boy: January 26, 1967. The only baseball player born that date is Tim Pugh, who was a teammate of Branson from 1992-1995 in Cinci. Pugh will make his appearance in this set at card #234. Rod Dallman, who played 6 games for the Islanders and Flyers is the NHL representative for that date. No NBA or NFLers were born that date. Col Needham, who founded the Internet Movie Database, was also born that date.

Up Next: #65 George Brett

63 - Ryan Bowen

63 - Ryan Bowen

Front photo: A pitcher at the plate! And laying down a bunt! I think this hits about 10 different bloggers mini collections?

Back photo: Does it matter?

Better photo?: Is there any doubt?

Ties to my personal collections: See 'Birthday boy'.

Paragraphs in wikipedia entry: 3

Wiki-facts: "was chosen in the 3rd round of the 1992 MLB Expansion Draft by the Florida Marlins"

Google it: This particular Ryan Bowen is listed after a basketball player and a hockey player when googled. The hockey guy is playing in the WHL with the Moose Jaw Warriors, and the basketball guy's photo on wikipedia looks like he's wearing a stocking mask while robbing a 7-11.

How was his stike shortened 1994? Went 1-5 with an ERA of 4.94.

Birthday boy:  February 10, 1968. Eddie Zosky, former Toronto Blue Jay was born that date. They were teammates as Zosky played in 6 games for the 1995 Marlins. No NBA or NFL content, but Peter Popovic brings the NHL alumni.

Up Next: 64 - Jeff Branson