And now, for something completely different…
You have seen his brother Cal Ripken’s Monster Card in the past but courtesy of Nathan Mikkelson, here is a fun one of his brother, Billy Ripken. And since his 1995 card is an extremely limited one in terms of playing time, it’s quite juicy!
1995 Billy Ripken
- Has an older brother
- Pranked a photographer during his baseball card shoot
For his only year in Cleveland, Ripken didn’t get much playing time but did make the most of it. He went 7 for 17 with two homeruns, getting time in at second and third.
| Split | G | GS | PA | AB | R | H | 2B | 3B | HR | RBI | SB | BB | SO | BA | OBP | SLG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 Totals | 8 | 2 | 17 | 17 | 4 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | .412 | .412 | .765 |
Note that Billy did not hit any doubles.
Ripken review
Ripken has power numbers 1-1-5 which is not overwhelming but solid for a second baseman. The 5 might rope a double which Ripken did not do in real life.
Power is not only thing where this card’s strength is. Check out the hit numbers! Rip has four sevens to help the cause.
APBA gave Ripken a gift with his 45-14 since he did not walk in 1995.
This card is a good case study on how APBA treats players with extremely limited playing time. It’s my opinion that it has changed over time. APBA has generally penalized hitters (and especially pitchers) with just a few appearances but exceptional performances. It’s my opinion that in newer sets, the card makers are letting the hitters do their thing, knowing that APBA fans are smart enough to do with these kinds of cards what they will.
Most will use this kind of card sparingly as Ripken was in real life. But hey, if someone wants to bat Billy Ripken third in the lineup every day for the Indians, more power to them.
As the the tagline goes, ‘It’s your game!’.
Thanks to Nathan!!
I would’ve thought there would be more 7s due to having only a single 14. Also note the 2-27s and 2-29s. That’s definitely an odd combination.
Needs four 1s and four more 7s.