Young Superstars II #1 - Don Mattingly

This is our first Yankee Young Superstar. With all their success starting in the mid-90s, a lot of people forget that the late 80s and into the early 90s were a pretty bleak time for the Yankees. Between 1987 and 1992, they finished no higher than fourth place.

There were bright spots in the lineup but an aging pitching staff limited their ability to win games.

One of the bright stars was of course Donnie Baseball. In 1988 Mattingly had been in the league for parts of six seasons and was regarded as one of the top players in the game.

It's interesting that we see Mattingly bunting here. Baseball Reference doesn't show any sac. bunts or attempts in 1987.

I'm not sure about the front (both at Yankee stadium), but the photo on the reverse was taken in the same place, more than likely at the same time.

Mattingly went on to have a great career, though the chances of him entering the Hall of Fame are slim despite his popularity. He was a six time All Star, nine time Gold Glover, three time Silver Slugger, 1985 American League MVP and in 1997 the Yankees bestowed the highest honor upon him by retiring his number 23.

Don Mattingly's career statistics

Mail day part 1: 1987 Topps

Two packages showed up today. Well, actually three, but the third was toys for my cat, so I won't post pictures of that one here.

One from Jeff at Card Junkie, and the other from Phillies fan John, you can see his Phillies Want List here.

We're gonna start with the card from Card Junkie. Several days ago I sent him two of the 2008 Topps Updates & Highlights he needed for his set, and he sent along one of the remaining 1987 Topps cards I need. I'm now down to five.


It's Bob Shirley on a very bright, over exposed day somewhere. It doesn't really look like Yankee Stadium, so maybe a spring training shot. I've never been to Florida, so I don't know if it's bright and over exposed or not.

Check back later for some nifty 1981 Topps goodies from John.