What a card: This is the 13th rookie card in the '85 Traded set. Joe Hesketh appeared in 25 games in 1985 -- all as a starter, which really stands out for a pitcher who would last 11 years by coming in from the bullpen.
My observation on the front: Exactly how skinny did they make pitchers in the '70s and '80s?
More opinion from me: I see that wingspan and I go right to Orel Hershiser. (Both pitchers lived in the Buffalo, N.Y., suburbs as youngsters).
Something you might know: Hesketh was a prime candidate for National League Rookie of the Year honors in 1985 when he broke his leg in a home plate collision with Dodgers catcher Mike Scioscia in August of that year.
Something you might not know: Hesketh was called for a balk before he threw his first major league pitch. It happened against the Phillies on Aug. 7, 1984. It's interesting to note that two of the umpires working that game were Bob Davidson, known as "Balkin' Bob" for the number of balks he called, and Cowboy Joe West.
My observation on the back: I tried to find out why Hesketh did not play in 1981 but came up empty. Also, I am thrilled to see "Blasdell, N.Y." listed on the back of this card. Nobody but anyone who grew up in Western New York knows where Blasdell is and it's actually not very big, but, dammit, Hesketh lived there.
The blog wants to speak now: The TV category is updated.
4 comments:
I was always glad to see Hesketh cards because of the Western NY connection. I wasn't aware Hershiser lived there too!
Joe West is ancient.
Hesketh had some good games for the Redsox. Crafty Lefty
June 24, 1982 "The Sun and Erie County Independent" says he injured his arm in June 1981. But he had gone to spring training with the Expos, so not sure where he was in April and May. Apparently it was Tommy John surgery.
Side note: his brother Tom was a pitcher for Fredonia State.
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