Random Thoughts: Now that I've finally got caught up on all my mail days, uploaded all the videos stored on my camera, sorted all the cards, and got my Heritage fix, I'm feeling rested and refreshed enough to get on with my Bataan death march through the 1990 Fleer set.
We resume with Mike Gallego. Gallego was another of those bit players on the great A's teams of the late 80's/early 90's who proved to be a useful reserve and spot starter for Tony LaRussa. Having made his big league debut in 1985, he was one of only a few holdovers from the pre-LaRussa era to survive into their winning years. His value as a bench player and coach was evident when he was picked to follow LaRussa to St. Louis.
After three uneventful cups of coffee with the A's, Gallego finally stuck as Oakland's regular second baseman from '88-'91. He was known more for his glovework than his weak bat. Gallego led the AL in sacrifice hits with 17 in 1991.
In 1992 he signed with the Yankees and spent the year as a utility infielder. The next season Gallego became more or less the starting second baseman and had his career year, batting .283 with 10 homers and 54 RBI. He would spend his last four seasons in the big leagues as a utility infielder/coach for the Yankees, A's and Cardinals. From '04-'08, Gallego served as the Rockies third base coach and infield instructor.
The Card Itself: I'm digging the ripped off sleeves on the warm up top. You don't see DIY practice wear on cards anymore.
Did You Know?: In 1995 his 28 hits, all of which were singles, remains the post-1912 MLB record for most hits in a season without an extra base for a non-pitcher.
Where Are They Now?: Gallego is currently the A's third base coach and infield instructor.
On This Date: On March 11, 1990 Patricio Aylwin is sworn-in as the first democratically elected Chilean president since 1970. Ironically enough, this just happened.
'90 Fleer Counters:
HALL OF FAME: 1
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: 2
CY YOUNG: 1
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR: 2
ALL-STAR: 2
GOLD GLOVE: 0
SILVER SLUGGER: 1
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