1996 Upper Deck SPx

I wasn't sure what to expect from this pack. It only contains one card (1 HOLOVIEW perimeter die-cut card). Coming in at $2.50 a pop from the local shop, I was even more hesitant to drop that much for something I had no knowledge on whatsoever. In the end, I gave in, because that's what makes this hobby so exciting - the mystery with each pack.

Paul Wilson #41. One part of the "Generation K" trio. As a Reds fan, I remember Paul Wilson for his time in Cincinnati (2003-2005). The card is actually pretty cool with its odd shape and hologram effect. The quality is really good, too.

Even still, I don't think I'll be buying a "pack" again (at least not anytime soon). I can stetch $2.50 into something else.

2002 Fleer Focus: Jersey Edition - Hobby Pack

I wasn't sure about picking up this pack because I never was a fan of Fleer's base cards. The inserts were pretty cool though. I had a good time in '94 with Fleer Ultra, so maybe Fleer just needed a little something extra to be cool. How about "Focus"? How about 2002 Fleer Focus...Jersey Edition? I was in the mood for something new, so I took a swing.

Hideo Nomo #123

I really enjoy a baseball card that lists every year of stats in the majors. I'm not a fan of listing the previous year and career totals only, although I understand that sometimes that is the best thing (Bowman).

Jason Kendall #184 Jorge Posada #65

I love cards of catchers. I'm not a Yankee fan but the Posada shot is pretty slick. At first glance, it looks like a Cubbie because of the blue gear.

Pedro Martinez #20

I would really enjoy seeing Petey come back and pitch.

Rafael Palmeiro #109

I was beginning to think this was a pitcher and catcher hot pack...

Ben Petrick #215

Russ Ortiz #111
Win-Loss Record: 113-89

Manny Ramirez #190 Carlos Lee #188

Something I really like about these cards is the color washing in the background. The main color of the team is mixed into the backgrounds of each card. It's a nice touch that is subtle, yet effective (it actually took me a couple times looking at these cards to realize the effect).

Jose Ortiz 13 of 15 BC. A Blue Chip insert 1:6 odds.

There are game-used versions of these where the jersey piece occupies the team logo space. This card really reminds me of a credit card (cardboard instead of plastic). It is the standard baseball card size.