Name: Nate McLouth
Position: OF
Team: Pittsburgh Pirates
Age: 26
Best Season: 2008, where is is currently putting up 0.280/17/60/9
Set it’s from: 2005 Topps Cracker Jack
How obtained: The card came from a pack ($2.99) and I got it autographed at a minor league game in 2005.
Why this Card?: Nate is a perfect example of an underdog succeeding. Not on the level of a Mike Piazza but still, he was drafted in the 25th round and not too many big league players make it from that round. He went from a speed oriented, high average hitter to a power hitter with some speed. I’m a Pirates fan so when I saw him make the jump from AAA Indianapolis in 2005, I watched just to see how he would do. Imagine my surprise, when this year he was poised to finish with a 0.280/26/85/15 season. He could be another Jason Bay in that outfield. They just have to let him get his at bats in and see what happens. Could this all come crashing down next month, if he goes on a 3 for 50 slump? Absolutely, but I am going to guess that he is in the majors to stay and he is going to be one of the better hiters in that Pirates lineup.
But What About the Set?: This was from the 2005 Topps Cracker Jack set. This was a one and done set that never really caught on. I actually like the old time look to the cards, but at a BV of $200 for the set and all the rookie cards were short printed. I just don’t like it. I remember buying the pack because I liked the design and as fate would have it the Indianapolis would be in town the following weekend. Aside from a Ian Kinsler and Andre Ethier rookie card, the set is largely a dud.
Beckett’s Value: $4.00 (unsigned)
eBay Value: I don’t know, not much more than 3 bucks without authentication.
Will it ever be worth more?: Maybe but I doubt he would be anything better than a Jason Bay. So let’s say no and cross our fingers.
2005 was actually the second year for Cracker Jack. There was a 2004 issue as well. I always liked the 2004 set better. I’m not generally a set collector but I’d like to complete that 2004 set.