Night Owl Cards

Before I get to packs 9 through 12, I need to address someone who is sabotaging my Gint-a-Cuffs points totals. That someone is me. I miscalculated the number of points that the Domonic Brown code card was worth, which a couple of folks were nice enough to point out. But also, way back in pack one, I neglected to count this card: It's a short print and worth two points. So instead of 71 points I now have 76 points (the missing 2 Valencia points and the missing 3 Brown points). Look at me, getting all accurate as if this is going to matter! OK, we've reached the middle row of my Gint-a-Cuffs box. Usually that's the row that produces the most hits. I've already pulled the Marlon Byrd bat relic. Let's see what disappointment ... er, excitement lies ahead. Time to stare at packs 9-12: PACK 9 120 - Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox (+2, favorite player card) 195 - Tommy Hanson, Braves (0 points) 6 - Micky Ward, boxer & inspiration for The Fighter ...

You may have heard me mumbling over the last few months about not being sure whether I would attempt to complete the 2011 Allen & Ginter set. This is a big deal for me because I have completed A&G sets for the last three years. I still love the concept, love the look, and think it's easily the most interesting thing that Topps or anyone puts on cardboard each and every year. But last year's set may have been my least favorite so far. I just didn't feel it. The look wasn't as appealing, the selection of subjects just wasn't as riveting (the revolving door card excluded, of course). I began to have my doubts. Then I got a glimpse of the design of this year's set. I have to say I'm not thrilled with it. I don't like the gold border, don't like the mish-mash of stuff at the bottom of the card that basically separates the card into two separate sections. Don't like that it reminds me of 2009 Upper Deck. I just don't like it. So ...