This was one of those cards I had to have as soon as I learned of its existence. What a fun and unusual picture for a card. This is a short sprint (or is it super-short print?) photo variation of Lawrie’s 2012 Topps rookie card. I reserve the right to change my mind about this later, but I think I generally detest the short print concept – except, in cases like this, where the short print is truly distinctive. But short prints that are simply regular base cards whose print run was artificially kept low or whose only distinguishing characteristic is a different color font on the back? What a crock.
I’m a Toronto Blue Jays fan and Lawrie was one of my favorite players on the team. He’s been a frustrating guy to watch the last few seasons, someone who has excelled in short bursts but just hasn’t’ been able to fulfill the promise who showed as a prospect and during his brief call-up late in the 2011 season (which included hitting a game-winning grand slam against Oakland, leading to the shaving-cream pie incident captured in this photo). But he’s also a Red Bull-fueled ball of energy who is fun to watch. And I always pull for Canadian-born ball players.
Of course, between the time I bought this card and the time it arrived at my house, the Jays traded Lawrie to the Oakland A’s. Oh well. I’ll miss him – but Josh Donaldson!
I believe this is one of two photo variations of Lawrie’s rookie card. Here’s the other:
Not nearly as interesting as the pie-face card, although it’s a nice action shot of Lawrie preparing to unload a throw to first base. I suspect it’s quite a bit more common – this one cost me 50 cents at a local card show, whereas the other set me back $3 plus $3 shipping on eBay.
And to complete the triumvirate, here’s Lawrie’s base card from the 2012 Topps run:
I like any card that has the Rookie Cup on it because, well, 1987.
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