Elsewhere in Cyperspace: Topps Backlash Edition

My full thoughts on the "Topps screwed us all with this retail BS" situation are now up on the Cardboard Connection. No, it's not just me up on a soapbox.

Here's an excerpt from the full article:

By pulling what was essentially a bait and switch, Topps has screwed the whole thing up. Sure, people may buy a blaster for the novelty, but they have wrecked the set and team collectors that were looking forward to this release. It is now either financially impossible or simply too frustrating to go after these cards in their limited release and they will turn elsewhere.

In writing this, I looked back on the first article I wrote about these retail cards, back when I was excited for their release. I couldn't help but notice what now appears to be an ominous closing paragraph:

So now, with Series 2 upon us, I can’t wait for Topps to tell us which UPC codes to use this time so that the chase can begin. Somehow, through some dark magic that I will never understand, Topps has gotten me excited to collect three versions of the same basic set. Kudos. Just don’t do something tricky or secret to screw it all up. We may be idiots, but we’re not dumb.

No, we're not. Read the full article, "Topps To Collectors: Drop Dead" over at the Cardboard Connection.

Official Topps Response

Regarding our beloved "Black" and "Throwback" cards:

Due to an overwhelming response from our customers, we adapted the Series 2 product to include 2 black or throwback parallel packs, depending on the specific blaster exclusive. We always strive to take the customer opinions into account and develop our products in ways that will assist as many of our customers as possible. Unfortunately, we do not have any plans to release all black or throwback blasters at Target or Walmart currently for Series 2.[ed: emphasis mine] We will, of course, forward any information or suggestions that you have in regards to these products to the brand management teams for review and consideration for future product.

I've got a crazy day at work today, but I wanted to get this out here. I'll be writing a full commentary on all of this, most likely to be posted on the Cardboard Connection.

Good Retail Cards Erase Bad Retail Thoughts

I'm still privately stewing over this whole black/throwback thing. I'm interested to hear Topps' response to my email, but I'm having a hard time figuring out how this is anything but greedy greediness at hand.

So, to temporarily forget my troubles, I turned to some Topps and Walmart Exclusives that don't upset me. Since it's 2009, and Topps and the Tigers, it can only mean one thing: Tyrus Raymond himself.

2009 Topps #GR-5 Ty Cobb Gold Refractor (Target)

This little number comes all the way back from Series 1, as the Target cereal box exclusive. It uses the same picture as his regular legends of the game card, but it's gold and refractory, which is always a plus. Strangely, Cobb didn't have a Wal Mart equivalent, which meant that I didn't even need to consider going into a Wal Mart to buy cards (except for those pesky "black" cards. Wait, here come those feelings again...) Hurry, to the next one!

2009 Topps #GR-13 Ty Cobb Gold Refractor (Target)

Ooh, that's what I'm talking about. This one is even nicer. I don't know what it is, but that Series 1 shot of Cobb doesn't do it for me. This time, they change things up and give you one big straight-on headshot. You get full details of the old uniform (is that a safety pin?), the slightly different "English D" before time passed and it because the Old English D we know today, and we see Ty Cobb. I don't know if there is a more appropriate look for him. At the same time, he looks serious and a little pissed, with a glint in his eye that says "I am the greatest, just try to beat me." You can tell from this shot alone that his nasty reputation was earned, but that he was one hell of a competitor.

Wal Mart has a version too. It is the same, minus a card color switcheroo:

2009 Topps #PR-15 Ty Cobb Platinum Refractor (WalMart)

Look at those dates: 1905-1928.

1. That was a really long time ago.
2. He played for 23 years!
3. He never won a World Series. The Tigers won their first in 1935. It wasn't for lack of trying though. The Tigers played in the World Series in 1907, 1908 and 1909, losing each time. Cobb was decidedly un-cobb-like in the first and the last, batting .200 and .231 respectively. In that 1908 series it wasn't for lack of trying though. Cobb hit .368 with 4 RBI, 2 SB and an .821 OPS, which is pretty solid. Oh, and he was only 21 at the time. Imagine that after age 22, arguably the greatest player of all time never played in another World Series.

Oh, what's that you say? Not the greatest of all time? Well, I'm sure you have your reasons. However, let me say two things:
1. When he was inducted to the inaugural Hall of Fame class, he got more votes than any other player, including the revered Babe Ruth. This tells me that, among people who actually saw him play, (and despite his sour demeanor) Cobb was considered the greatest player of his era.

Point number two:


If not the greatest, he was pretty darn good. I think that is something we can all agree on.

Group Break Chaos: Topps "Black" and "Throwback"

This is why we wait...

NachosGrande is on it, Hand Collated is pissed, and the rest of us are just searching for answers.

Indeed, I have been to the mountaintop, but there is no promised land before us. I went to my own walmart today to find that there were specially marked blasters there, with "black background parallels" seeded in 2 packs per blaster. The serial number on these had the "13" that Dayf told us to keep our eyes out for. At this point, it seems as though the walmart "black" cards (and presumably the throwbacks at target) are seeded at 2 packs per blaster.

I have emailed Topps and await their response. For now, the Retail Group Breaks are on indefinite hold, as it makes zero sense to buy blasters of this product with only two parallel packs in them. I'll let you know what I discover. Also, I'm anticipating a more extensive post about this at the Cardboard Connection, as they have a bit wider of a distribution than yours truly.

Give us the truth, Topps and the truth will set you free.

Topps Throwback/Black Group Break Update

So far, I am yet to find the blasters containing these cards "in the wild." In fact, I haven't seen the cards themselves on eBay yet, indicating that they haven't made their way into stores yet. If I recall, the Series 1 blasters were supposed to be released after the regular issue, but were released simultaneously. It is possible that Series 2 variations will come as a second wave.

In the meantime, I will continue to be vigilant in tracking these down, and I ask all the group breakers to be patient. As soon as I see or hear of them existing I will give you full instructions to send payment. I'm waiting until then because I see no reason for you to send money now for such delayed gratification.

To rehash the specifics (full details here) we will bust 3 or 4 Blasters, based on availability, from Walmart to get the "Black" base cards. We will do the same at Target to get the "Throwbacks". If we do 3 blasters cost is $6 per break. 4 blasters will cost $7.50. ALL PRICES INCLUDE SHIPPING. You will receive all cards from your team, including the base variations, inserts, commemorative patches, autographs, relics and anything else that is pulled.

We are an official go on the break, but still have spots available. Leave a comment if you'd like to fill in the blanks.

Here's the list as it currently stands:

AL WEST
Angels: I Heart Halos--Both Breaks
Rangers:
A's:
Mariners:

AL CENTRAL
Tigers: Grand Cards--Both Breaks
Indians: Baseball Dad--Both Breaks
White Sox:
Royals:
Twins:

AL EAST
Red Sox: Thoughts & Sox--Both Breaks
Yankees: Flash--Both Breaks
Blue Jays: Blue Jays Cards--Both Breaks
Orioles:
Rays:

NL WEST
Dodgers: Night Owl--Both Breaks
Dbacks: Tim Rooks--Both Breaks
Giants:
Padres:
Rockies:

NL CENTRAL
Cubs: Lake Effect Cards--Both Breaks
Cardinals:
Astros:
Brewers:
Reds:
Pirates

NL EAST:
Marlins: Wicked Orteaga--Both Breaks
Phillies: Dan (The Other World)--Both Breaks
Mets: --David (Tribe Cards)--Both Breaks
Nationals: NatsTown--Both Breaks
Braves: Capt. Canuck--WALMART ONLY

RANDOM TEAM (From Unclaimed Teams)
1. --David (Tribe Cards)

Group Break is On (but not full)!

But first, a future baseball card shot, perhaps?


This is from Curtis Granderson's Game-Tying, 9th inning, 2-out Home Run last night (from the Detroit News). Sadly, the Tigers lost in the bottom of the inning. In my cry for more Curtis Granderson non-running action shots in cards, I thought that this one would do nicely.

Onto the real news, the Group Break for Topps Series 2 variation cards (black and throwback) from Target and Walmart is now officially on, thanks to NatsTown claiming the Nationals from the set. That gives us 14 teams, which means that we are a go!

But that's not all, there are still plenty of great teams left, some of which I know have card-blog followings. Here's what's left, as of this morning:

AL West: A's, Mariners, Rangers
AL Central: White Sox, Twins, Royals
AL East: Rays, Orioles

NL West: Giants, Rockies, Padres
NL Central: Pirates, Reds, Cardinals, Astros, Brewers
NL East: Braves

Click on the link for all the specifics and you can either leave your comment over there or on this post if you would like one of the available teams.
It's only $6 including shipping to get three blasters worth of your team of choice, including inserts etc. ($7.50 if we can find four blasters), and you can choose just the Walmart break, just the Target break or both!

As soon as these blasters become available, I will be on the lookout for them, so stay tuned. Once I find them, I will require payment before the break goes forward, just like last time.

Topps "Black" and "Throwback" Group Break Update

Word on the street is that Series 2 blasters are starting to creep out. I haven't seen the Topps Black versions (Walmart) or the Throwback ones (Target) but I will now officially be keeping my eyes open. In the meantime, the list for the Topps "Black" and "Throwback" Group Break remains open.

There are plenty of good teams still available, so go to here and leave a comment to claim yours. We still need (at least) three more teams for the green light.

Topps Series 2 Walmart & Target Retail Parallel Group Breaks Are Coming!

That is one mouthful of a title.

Once upon a time, Walmart and Target decided to sell parallel sets (in "Black" and "Throwback/Retro" flavors) in secret blasters denoted by a serial number. With Series 2 having unofficially found its way to shelves last week, we can only assume that Target and Walmart will continue their parallel retail sets and I, for one, want to get my hands on those Tigers.

So, let's do this thing again! Just like last time, I will hold group breaks right here for the Walmart and Target Parallel Blasters. There will be separate breaks for each set, at a price of $6 per team, including shipping. Like last time, we will need 14 teams to be chosen for the break to go forward and 3 blasters will be broken of each set. I am announcing this now so that people have more than a 3-day window to get a team's claim in.

Now, there is the off-chance that I will be able to get a 4th blaster of each set, which would be downright wonderful. If that is the case the fee would increase to $7.50 per team to cover the cost of that 4th box. Of course, all of this is contingent on my actually finding the cards, which was quite the challenge last time (at least now I know where to go, hopefully), and the fact that these blasters exist for Series 2 and that the serial numbers are again made available so that we can distinguish them from regular blasters.

Starting now, consider this post the official team-claiming page for these Group Breaks. In the comments section, please indicate the team(s) you would like to claim and which breaks (Walmart, Target, Both) you would like to participate in. You do not need to pay yet. I will provide updates as necessary as details become clear. You do not need a blog to participate, but if I haven't dealt with you before advance payment/deposit may be required (TBD) I'll get things started:

Grand Cards: Tigers--Both
Greg (Lake Effect Cards): Cubs--Both
Night Owl: Dodgers--Both
Adam E (Thoughts & Sox): Red Sox--Both
Tim Rooks: Dbacks--Both
Baseball Dad (All Tribe Baseball): Indians--Both
RWH (I Heart Halos): Angels--Both
Doubleplay (Blue Jays Cards) Blue Jays--Both
Wicked Orteaga: Marlins--Both
Flash: Yankees--Both
Dan (The Other World): Phillies--Both
--David (Tribe Cards): Mets--Both
--David (Tribe Cards): Random Team #1--Both
Jonathan (NatsTown): Nationals--Both

Mail Day!

The other day I received a bubble mailer with contents that were short but sweet--the last two cards that I needed to complete my Tigers team set from Walmart's Topps "Black" cards. I put together a trade with Nachos Grande in which I sent him a dozen or so of my Topps "Black" cards for the two remaining Tigers that I needed. Now, before you all go and start sending me cards expecting me to send 6x or more in return, I suggest you read my trading philosophy. He had something that I needed + I had something he needed=trade. This offer is on the table for anybody else who is interested.

Anyway, Justin Verlander and Miguel Cabrera's League Leaders card are now a part of my collection. Since Topps has wonderfully decided to produce the Tigers in the "Golden Ratio", I can fit all of Series 1 onto one page. For your viewing pleasure, here's a quick shot of the whole team on these fun blacked-out cards.


I've got to say, I'm a little disappointed in Topps for their Series 1 selection. I realize that the Tigers were a last place team last year, but out of the 9 cards, 2 are league leaders, 2 aren't on the team anymore and one is an unheralded rookie who won't make the 25-man roster. We're left with the Ace Verlander (oh, for the love of God please be an ace again), super-beast Cabrera, loveable bench player Thames and fan-favorite position chameleon Inge. Maybe I'm just Bitter with no Granderson, or am just cognizant of how sad it is that Upper Deck has 19 cards compared to Topps' 9. I hope that Series 2 has a little more pop.

I do apologize for the slow posting this last week. I'm hoping that as work settles down, March Madness gets under control (Congratulations Michigan, on a respectable showing), and life gets back into order that I'm free to post some more. It doesn't help that I feel as though we're in a baseball "dead period", where everybody has drafted their fantasy teams, but the season is still a few weeks away and we're all just chomping at the bit for things to start. Oh well, Opening Day for the O's on the 6th, and I'll be back in Michigan for Tigers Opening Day that Friday (which reminds me, I need to book my flight).

Mail Day!

This post comes a few days removed from when the cards actually came, but they deserve to be recognized nonetheless.

The first pair of cards comes from Baseball Dad. In exchange for a Roberto Clemente "Legends of the Game" card that went unclaimed in the Topps "Black" Group Break, he sent me two beauties to help me get close to polishing off the team set.

2009 Topps Walmart "Black" #76 Marcus Thames

2009 Topps Walmart "Black" #176 Hamilton/Morneau/Cabrera

That leaves me with only 2 to go (Verlander & Cabrera/Quentin/Rodriguez)! Thank you so much!

The second package that came contained the first Upper Deck addition to my Granderson collection this year.

2009 Upper Deck #GJ-GR Curtis Granderson

I must say, this relic card, although not particularly well designed (what's with the fake "CG" swatch?) is a pretty nice looking card, and it looks like the more advanced UD cards (Dual, Triple & Quad Jerseys) are even nicer. As it is, this is the type of clean, crisp card that you can expect from a regular issue like Upper Deck.

I would also like to thank Marie from A Cardboard Problem for sending me her old Detroit Tigers as part of her '80's card liquidation. As expected, I had that vast majority of the cards, but she helped me fill a few holes off my wantlist. Thanks Marie!

So that's it, a short but sweet Mailday--thank you for everyone for the trades. Oh, and if you want to trade, just take a look at what I have and/or what I want, and send me an email to get things rolling!

Topps "Black" Leftovers for Trade

Well, I think the group break was a success. I'm packing everybody's cards up today with the plan of getting them shipped on Saturday. I may contact you for your address if I don't have it, otherwise, just sit back and enjoy the cards when they come in.

For the rest of you, since not all teams were claimed, there are some extra cards to go around. Just like the break (and out of fairness to the breakees), you can feel free to purchase any one team's cards for $6, which includes all shipping etc. I am also open to trading any or all of these cards for cards that I need--especially those from this year's sets.

Available cards can be found on my tradelist.

Teams with the most available cards include: a full Reds team set (I think--8 cards, one of which is a double Jay Bruce), 10 of the 12 Braves cards plus a double, 8 of the 10 A's plus a double, 8 of 11 Blue Jays and many, many more. Available Stars include Tim Lincecum, Albert Pujols, Chase Utley, Cole Hamels and Ichiro, among others.

Also among the available cards are a smattering of inserts, including Toppstown, Turkey Red (8, 13, 23, 38), and Legends of the Game (N. Ryan, R. Clemente) cards. Please see my Tradelist for full availability.

As for what I need in return, I will refer you to my Wantlist.

Briefly, my primary wants from 2009 Topps include:
Topps "Black" cards of Thames, Verlander, and Both League Leaders cards w/ Miguel Cabrera: (76, 85, 127, 176)
Ty Cobb SP (#66)
Jeremy Bonderman Relic (CBR-JB)
Ty Cobb Legends of the Game (and ANY Parallels or Retail Exclusives)
Curtis Granderson Turkey Red
Miguel Cabrera Turkey REd
Miguel Cabrera Toppstown Gold

I also need ALL 2009 Curtis Granderson cards, except the "Career Best" Auto and Relic in 2009 Topps.

So that it's all at your fingertips, here is my Tradelist my Tigers Wantlist and my Granderson Needlist

Oh, and don't forget to email me to trade.

Group Break: In Sum

I'd like to thank everybody for participating in my first ever Group Break. If you recall, my plan was to do this with the Walmart AND the Target versions of these blasters. Since I had a good time, and believe that I will break even when all is said and done (thanks to your generosity), I would be willing to do this again for the Target Blasters. Stay Tuned for that, once those hit stores.

Here's the Upshot: Some people did VERY well. Some people, much less so. Its nice to see that the frustrating life of a Tigers fan can be replicated by fans of the White Sox, Orioles, Royals and Rangers. I'm just glad that I'm not a Nationals fan (3 cards).

To break it down:
Angels: I Heart Halos--6 Black, 2 Toppstown (1 Double)
Cubs: Lake Effect Cards--5 Black, 2 Toppstown (1 Double)
Diamondbacks: Mark's Ephemera--8 Black, 1 Toppstown
Dodgers: Night Owl Cards--9 Black, 1 Gold, 1 Turkey Red, 1 LOG
Indians: Baseball Dad--7 Black, 1 Toppstown
Marlins: RogerL--9 Black (1 Double), 1 Toppstown
Mets: Dinged Corners--7 Black, 1 Toppstown, 1 Toppstown Gold
Orioles: RogerL--3 Black, 2 Toppstown (1 Double)
Rangers: Hamiltonian--6 Black (1 Double)
Rays: RogerL--8 Black, 1 Toppstown
Red Sox: AdamE--12 Black, 1 Comm. Patch
Royals: Lake Effect Cards--4 Black, 1 Toppstown
Tigers: Grandcards--5 Black, 1 Toppstown
White Sox: White Sox Cards--5 Black, 1 Toppstown
Yankees: RogerL--11 Black, 1 Turkey Red, 1 Comm. Patch

Now, that leaves plenty of extras, including some from desirable teams in the blogging community (Phillies, Braves, Twins, Brewers) that are available for trade (or sale). Keep an eye out on my tradelist, which will be updated in the next few days, or just take a look at the break posts. If you see something that you like, Let me know.

Thank you again for participating in my group break. I hope everybody enjoys their cards and that we can do it again sometime!

Topps "Black" Group Break: Box 3

First Box, Second Box Third One:

Commemorative Patch: Jimmie Fox-LPR5

2009 Topps LPR5-Jimmie Foxx

Pack 1:
Mariano Rivera: Yankees
Johnny Cueto: Reds
Alex Rios: Blue Jays
Matt Treanor: Marlins--Current Tigers Backup and Husband of Misty May Treanor
Albert Pujols: Cardinals
Chris Lambert: Tigers (Hey-o!)
Greg Smith: A's
Cody Ross: Marlins

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Current Tiger Matt Treanor & His Moustache

Pack 2:
Justin Upton: Diamondbacks
Jermaine Dye: White Sox
Bryan Fuentes: Rockies
Jackie Robinson: Dodgers-Turkey Red
CC Sabathia: Brewers-Toppstown
Dan Uggla: Marlins
Mickey Mantle: Yankees
Chase Utley: Phillies

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Mickey Mantle

Pack 3:
Chris Duncan: Cardinals
Shane Victorino: Phillies
David Ortiz: Red Sox
Ubaldo Jimenez: Rockies- Gold #0136/2009
Alfonso Soriano: Cubs- Toppstown
Francisco Cervelli: Yankees
Ty Wigginton: Astros
Dallas McPherson: Marlins

Pack 4:
Cliff Lee: Indians
James Shields: Rays
Brandon Wood: Angels
David Eckstein: Diamondbacks
Justin Morneau: Twins-Toppstown Gold
Dusty Baker: Reds
Rod Barajas: Jays
Hideki Okajima: Red Sox--Hideki and I ran the Honolulu Marathon together this year. Well, not together...at the same time. Well, not exactly the same time, but on the same day at least. Suffice to say he ate my dust

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Honolulu Marathon Finisher Hideki Okajima

Pack 5:
Andrew Miller: Marlins
Juan Uribe: White Sox
Chris Dickerson: Reds
Ichiro: Mariners- Toppstown
Brian Bixler: Pirates
Cole Hamels: Phillies
Joe Torree: Dodgers
Brandon Moss: Pirates

Pack 6:
Johan Santana: Mets
Kyle Kendrick: Phillies
Mike Cameron: Brewers
Howard/Dunn/Delgado: Phillies/Dbacks/Mets--Goes to Dinged Corners
Roberto Clemente: Pirates- Legends of the Game
Francisco Rodriguez: Angels- Toppstown
Dexter Fowler: Rockies
Ubaldo Jimenez: Rockies

Pack 7:
Chris Young: Padres
Ichiro: Mariners
Mauer/Pedroia/Bradley: Twins/Red Sox/Rangers--Randomizer says...Rangers
Jones/Pujols/Holliday: Braves/Cardinals/Rockies
Miguel Cabrera: Tigers- Toppstown
Humberto Sanchez: Yankees
Eric Hinske: Rays
Adam Lind: Blue Jays

Pack 8:
Andrew Jones: Dodgers
Angel Berroa: Dodgers
A.J. Pierzynski: White Sox
Lastings Milledge: Nationals
Carlos Quentin: White Sox- Toppstown
Kazmir/Price: Rays--"Ray Guns" Nice.
Current Tiger Gerald Laird: Rangers
Greg Maddux: Dodgers

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Scott Kazmir & David Price "Ray Guns"

Pack 9:
Denard Span: Twins
Edwin Encarnacion: Reds
Ross Gload: Royals
Hunter Pence: Astros- Turkey Red
Lance Berkman: Astros- Toppstown
Dustin McGowan: Blue Jays
John Buck: Royals
Scott Elbert: Dodgers

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Ross Gload

Pack 10:
Tim Hudson: Braves
Zack Greinke: Royals
Grady Sizemore: Indians
Chipper Jones: Braves
Phil Coke: Yankees
Evan Longoria: Rays
Yadier Molina: Cardinals
Ken Griffey Jr.: White Sox

So that's the break! Summary Post upcoming.

Topps "Black" Group Break: Box 2

Onto the second box. The third to follow, the first one here

Mickey Mantle Yankees Commemorative Patch

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart LPR-28 Mickey Mantle

Pack 1:
Jack Wilson: Pirates
Josh Johnson: Marlins
Frank Catalanotto: Rangers
Ryan Ludwick: Cardinals- Turkey Red
Grady Sizemore: Indians- Toppstown
Brian Robers: Orioles
Javier Vazquez: White Sox
Jerry Hairston: Reds

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Former Tiger Frank Catalanotto

Pack 2:
Brian McCann: Braves
Jose Bautista: Blue Jays
Alex Rodriguez: Yankees
Ryan Madson: Phillies
Brandon Webb: Diamondbacks- Toppstown
Cliff Lee: Indians
Jose Guillen: Royals
Brad Penny: Dodgers

Pack 3:
Omar Infante: Braves
Jeff Bailey: Red Sox
Nate McLouth: Pirates
Erik Bedard: Mariners
Evan Longoria: Rays- Toppstown
Hiroki Kuroda: Dodgers
Carlos Pena: Rays
Aaron Cunningham: A's

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Former Tiger Carlos Pena

Pack 4:
Brendan Harris: Twins
Edgar Renteria: Tigers (Woo!)
Nolan Ryan: Astros- Legends of the Game
Johan Santana: Mets- Toppstown
Scott Lewis: Indians
Kelly Johnson: Braves
Conor Jackson: Diamondbacks
Asdrubal Cabrera: Indians (With the Old School Hat)

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Asdrubal Cabrera

Pack 5:
Justin Duchscherer: A's
Emmanual Burriss: Giants
Jeremy Carroll: Indians
Jair Jurrjens: Braves
Juan Pierre: Dodgers- Gold #0723/2009
Johan Santana: Mets- Toppstown Gold
Omar Vizquel: Giants
Jo-Jo Reyes: Braves

Pack 6:
Aaron Harang: Reds
Travis Snyder: Blue Jays
Chris Burke: Diamondbacks
Manny Delcarmen: Red Sox
Hanley Ramirez: Marlins- Toppstown
Xavier Nady: Yankees
Ramon Castro: Mets
Jeff Baker: Rockies

Pack 7:
Brian Stokes: Mets
Kyle Loshe: Cardinals
Reed Johnson: Cubs--This card is at least twice as awesome sideways
Mike Lowell: Red Sox
Ryan Howard: Phillies- Toppstown
Albert Pujols: Cardinals
Chris Coste: Phillies
Brandon Inge: Tigers (Yay!)

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Reed Johnson

Pack 8:
David Newhan: Astros
John Lackey: Angels
Mark Reynolds: Diamondbacks
Jake Peavey: Padres- Toppstown
James McDonald: Dodgers
Brad Ziegler: A's
Bobby Cox: Braves
Tom Gorzelanny: Pirates

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart John Lackey

Pack 9:
Rich Harden: Cubs
David Price: Rays--The "must have" rookie in 2009?
Brandon Webb: Diamondbacks
Clint Barmes: Rockies
Nick Markakis: Orioles- Toppstown
Gaby Sanchez: Marlins
Jarrod Saltalamacchia: Rangers
Jay Bruce: Reds

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart David Price

Pack 10:
Chien-Ming Wang: Yankees
Marco Scutaro: Blue Jays
Kevin Slowey: Twins
Garrett Atkins: Rockies- Turkey Red
Alex Gordon: Royals- Toppstown
Evan Longoria: Rays
Akinori Iwamura: Rays
Mark Teixeira: Angels

So there's box two--box three is on its way, followed by a quick summary for all of you who paid for the break and those of you that may be interested in the unclaimed cards.

Topps "Black" Group Break: Box 1

The boxes are in and the packs are open. So far, money has come in from:
Baseball Dad: Indians
I Heart Halos: Angels
White Sox Cards: White Sox
Lake Effect Cards: Royals & Cubs
Hamiltonian: Rangers

And, last minute newcomer AdamE, who will absolutely clean up on Red Sox.

I would like to thank each of them for graciously offering an extra dollar to help me cover some of the shipping and tax that I didn't consider when I first set this up. Also, did you know that Paypal takes nearly $.50 on a $6 transaction? Good God, I couldn't believe it (I'm not usually a receiver of money)!

For the record, we're still waiting for Dinged Corners, Night Owl and RogerL, although with some of them being from timezones far west of here, we'll give them a break for now. All of the packs in box one were ripped by my wonderful wife who, despite a laissez faire attitude towards cards, really enjoys opening packs. As she said, "it's like opening a bunch of little presents" and she worked hard to find me a pair of Tigers. So, without further ado, I submit to you the results of the first box. The other two boxes will be released when the rest of the money comes in.

Commemorative Patch: LPR-8 Ted Williams (1949 All Star Game)--Adam scores right off the bat.

2009 Topps LPR-8 Ted Williams

Pack 1:
Vicente Padilla : Rangers
Daisuke Matsuzaka: Red Sox
George Kottaras: Red Sox
Turkey Red: Brian Giles: Padres
Topps Town: Ryan Howard: Phillies
Alcides Escobar: Brewers
Bobby Cox: Braves
Tom Gorzelanny: Pirates

Pack 2:
Ian Stewart: Rockies
Orlando Hudson: Dbacks
Mike Pelfrey: Mets
Ichiro: Mariners –Gold #0511/2009
Toppstown Jake Peavey : Padres
Greg Golson: Rangers (RC)
Jarrod Saltalamaccia: Rangers
Jay Bruce: Reds

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Jarrod Saltalamacchia

Pack 3:
Kevin Youkilis: Red Sox
Aubrey Huff: Orioles
Ryan Sweeney: A’s
Berkman/Lee: Astros
Toppstown Gold: Ichiro Mariners
Angel Salome: Brewers
Mike Napoli: Angels
Jeff Francoeur: Braves

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Mike Napoli

Pack 4:
Tim Lincecum: Giants
Craig Counsell: Brewers
Albert Pujols: Cardinals
Casey Kotchman: Braves
Toppstown Nick Markakis: Orioles
Matt Tuiasosopo: Mariners
Roy Oswalt: Astros
Dave Roberts: Giants

Pack 5:
Mike Gonzalez: Braves
Carlos Zambrano: Cubs
Lester/Bay: Red Sox
LOG: Roy Campanella: Dodgers
Toppstown Justin Morneau: Twins
Ryan Langerhans: Nationals
Brad Lidge: Phillies
Bud Black: Padres

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Jon Lester/Jason Bay

Pack 6:
Matt Joyce: Tigers (FIRST TIGER! WOO!)
Luis Ayala: Mets
Burnett/Santana/Halladay: Jays/Angels/Jays
Toppstown Albert Pujols: Cardinals
Bob Green: A’s
Edgar Gonzalez: Padres
Joe Maddon: Rays
Yuniesky Betancourt: Mariners

Pack 7:
Kosuke Fukudome: Cubs--one of my favorite pictures from the set
Guillermo Quiroz: Orioles
Jason Giambi: Yankees
Fransico Liriano: Twins
Toppstown CC Sabathia: Brewers
John Baker: Marlins
Miguel Cabrera: Tigers (Second Tiger! Huzzah!)
Jon Garland: Angels

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Kosuke Fukudome

Pack 8:
Hideki Matsui: Yankees
Eric Wedge: Indians
Josh Outman: A’s
Turkey Red: Babe Ruth: Yankees
Toppstown Alfonso Soriano: Cubs
Juan Miranda: Yankees
Ronnie Belliard: Nationals
Randy Johnson: Dbacks

2009 Topps "Black" WalmartEric Wedge

Pack 9:
Cito Gaston: Jays
Frank Thomas: A’s
Rafael Furcal: Dodgers--Night Owl sent me an email heads up on the money, so he gets a shot below
Dustin Pedroia: Red Sox
Toppstown Ichiro: Mariners
Bobby Parnell: Mets
Hunter Pence: Astros
Mark DeRosa: Cubs

2009 Topps "Black" Walmart Rafael Furcal

Pack 10:
Pedro Feliz: Phillies
Jed Lowrie: Red Sox
Terry Francona: Red Sox
Todd Wellemeyer: Cardinals
Toppstown Francisco Rodriguez: Angels
Jason Motte: Cardinals
Greg Smith: A’s
Cody Ross: Marlins

So, there is the first box. I will say, that we were blessed with good collation, so there are precious few doubles in the boxes. Also, I'll try to get better pictures for tomorrow's cards via better lighting. All doubles will be made available for sale or trade once I'm done posting them all up and getting them organized. More to come tomorrow--get that money in (especially you RogerL!)

Success! Group Break is On!

Huzzah!

After a trip to Walmart and searching way back on the bottom rows on my hands and knees, I have come away with Three Topps Blasters with the special "black" barcode.

At this point, I ask that you send me your $5 per team to me via paypal to grandcardsblog AT gmail DOT com. If you feel like adding a sixth dollar to compensate for the tax and shipping that I didn't calculate when I originally set the prices, I would gladly accept your charity. However, do not feel obligated to do so.

I'll start busting these open tonight and post the results as the money comes in!

Steeeerike 1

For those of you who, like me, have been waiting with baited breath for the Walmart "Black" Group Break, you'll have to hold your breath a little longer.

Today was an interesting day. Baltimore was blanketed with snow throughout the night and into the morning, and I was given the benefit of my first "snow day" since I graduated college. My initial plan, to stop by the Walmart near my work was thwarted. Onto plan B: Find another Walmart. It sounds so simple, doesn't it?

You see, I live in Baltimore. Not "Baltimore" as in the greater Baltimore area, but Baltimore as in, Baltimore City. As such, the suburban amenities like Walmart are not particularly easy to come by. There is one in the city, but the combination of some snow and AWFUL Maryland drivers was enough to keep me from venturing over there this morning/afternoon. However, this evening my wife and I had a meeting with our Mortgage Officer in Timonium. Google Maps told me of two very nearby Walmart stores. Plan B, it seems, was in full effect.

One problem--neither of those Walmarts exist. One is a Sam's Club and one is closed. Great. On my way back down the highway, my lovely wife (bless her heart) suggested that we swing by the one in Towson, a few exists away on the interstate. So, we made the detour and ended up at the card aisle of Walmart looking at...Nothing. The only 2009 Cards OF ANY TYPE was a sad lonely gravity feeder hanging onto the corner of the shelf. There were no 2009 Topps Blasters, cereal boxes, "value packs", nothing. There was no 2009 Upper Deck at all, in any form.

Without getting into it too much, we'll just end the story by saying that I drove home annoyed and frustrated, my wife shared the same feelings times 10, I went 0 for "3" on my Walmart search and will put all of my group break eggs into one basket--the hope that the Walmart near my work has these cards, or any cards at all. I'll try to head out there during lunch tomorrow, so expect a mid-day report of success or failure.

Topps Black Blaster Group Break Is On!

Ok, Because RogerL stepped up for two more teams (Yankees and Orioles), we now have 12 teams. That is enough to do 3 blasters of Topps Black from Walmart. Now it is confirmation time.

I need everybody to commit, via comment to this post, that they are willing to go in for $5 on the break so that I can buy 3 FROM WALMART ONLY. This is due to the lack of Target Blasters. If this is successful, we will do a Target one when those come out. Since there is a concern about my being able to find these blasters, at this stage, I only need a commitment that people are in, not money in hand. I will search tomorrow to find the cards, and if they are there, I will buy them and ask for the money then. This way, nobody is committing cash that is at risk if I can't find the cards. Because you all run blogs (except for RogerL--I may need you to send money in advance, which I will not accept until I find the cards) your commitment is public and will put your reputation on the line, and among card traders, reputation is just as important as anything.

So, in the comments please let me know if you are in for $5 to open Three blasters of Black Walmart Cards. SPs, Patches & Inserts etc. will go to the committed teams. If any additional people want to join the break, they can do so at any point. If you're in, post it up (name and team commitment) and we'll do this tomorrow.

UPDATE: Yes, The $5 includes Shipping and Everything

Retail Group Break Progress Repot

Well, this has gone better than expected thus far. As of right now we're looking at:

Night Owl: Dodgers
Baseball Dad: Indians
Dinged Corners: Mets
Me: Tigers
Lake Effect Cards: Royals & Cubs
Hamiltonian: Rangers (tentative)
I Heart Halos: Angels
RogerL: Marlins & Rays

That gives us 10 teams, which is not too shabby, with Nachos Grande interested in the Patches & SPs (RogerL is too). For more clarification, I was planning on giving all cards from a given team to that person, including inserts, patches etc. I think that multi-player cards will be subject to Randomization between multiple claimants.

Also, I thought that I heard that the Target blasters wouldn't be out until April. Is that true? If so, would people still want to do a break of the Black Borders? I'm thinking 2 or 3 boxes. If somebody knows anything about the target cards, please pass it along.

I'd like to get at least 2 more teams in here and do 3 boxes for $5 per person (if the Walmart Cards are all that's available) or get 6 more teams and do 4 boxes. Once I get two more, I will update the list and confirm with each of you. Then, I will ask for the monies and pick up boxes on Monday with a Break Monday Night (if all goes according to plan). Sound good? Tell your friends--there are still a few good teams out there.

Thoughts? Suggestions?

2009 Topps Retail Parallel Group Break

Ok, so here's what I'm thinking. Sorry if it's a slight rehash from what I said yesterday. I want the Black and Gray Detroit Tigers retail parallels offered at Target and Walmart, but I don't feel the need to splurge on a whole bunch of blasters that will fail to guarantee that I get anywhere close to a set. I also want to avoid exorbitant shipping costs that come from buying these cards individually. So I've decided, if there is enough demand, to do a Group Break on these. Of course, this is all contingent on my local Target and Walmart actually having these blasters (last I checked the Target near my work didn't have ANY 2009 Topps--nothing at all), but I'm willing to go on a bit of recon to find them.

I'm not so sure about the specifics, but I was thinking maybe $5 per person? The average team set has about 10-12 cards in it and I'm thinking of getting 2 Walmart and 2 Target (320 Cards). Since I'm not trying to lose money on the proposition, that would require 16 people at $5 to participate in the break. Given the readership on this blog, I'm not sure that's doable. If we can get 13 people I can do it at $6.

To be more inclusive, and for set builders, I will also offer slots for the "leftover cards." For the same price as a team collector, you can buy the rights to all unclaimed Black or Gray cards within a certain number range. For example, Let's say you buy the rights to card numbers 1-20. Upon the break, I pull 1 Tiger, 2 Indians and 4 Dodgers--you would get the remaining 13 cards in that range.

Make sense?

If you are interested, please let me know in the comments section. So far, I've got interest from:

Night Owl: Dodgers
Baseball Dad: Indians
Dinged Corners: Mets


With me, that leaves us with 12 to go, and I'm just hoping there's enough interest out there to fill it up.

To sum, you may purchase a team or a the rights to an unclaimed card slot (for set builders: could be a range of unclaimed cards to depending on the number of teams-more on this as details emerge). This is not a firm commitment (i.e. no money down), but if the interest is there I will solidify the commitments, buy the cards, and we'll be on our way!

Also, if there is lots of interest, we can push it to 3 blasters of each--I just thought that 2 would be a good starting point.