April 24 - Double Header, 182 Packs of Baseball

I've decided that from time to time, I am going to have some days that I'll call "Double Header" days.  On these days, I'll bust open an extra pack of cards, just for the heck of it - Something fun to do in celebration of the greatest game in America.  Today is one of those days.

Today's Double Header pack is actually a 3-pack: 2012 Topps Gypsy Queen Wal-Mart edition.  I have no idea if there are other varieties, but I bought these at Wal-Mart and in case there are others, I thought it safe (fair, perhaps) to say so.

The 3-pack comes with three framed inserts in addition to the packs themselves.  In the name of honesty and disclosure, I will let you know that I have seen all of these before posting them.  This is unlike any of the daily breaks I've done so far.  I just couldn't help myself.  And, after you see them, you'll understand - just from a purely collector's viewpoint.  I have not read anything about what other folks think of the designs or the cards or the players portrayed.  All I know is that I think these are wonderful little bits of cardboard.  Let's get crackin:

Nelson Cruz - Rangers - Framed Insert
Dustin Pedroia - Red Sox - Framed Insert
Andre Dawson - Cubs - Framed Insert

 
Bob Gibson - Cardinals
Ty Cobb - Tigers
Johnny Bench - Reds

Jose Reyes - Marlins - Sliding Stars
Brian McCann - Braves - Mini
Josh Hamilton - Rangers - Glove Stories

Alex Rodriguez - Yankees
Jose Reyes - Marlins
David Freese - Cardinals

Elvis Andrus - Rangers - Sliding Stars
Mike Carp - Mariners - Mini
Stan Musial - Cardinals - Hallmark Heroes

Dustin Ackley - Mariners
Neil Walker - Pirates
Delmon Young - Tigers

Scott Baker - Twins
CC Sabathia - Yankees - Mini "Straight Cut"
Desmond Jennings - Rays - Future Stars

As a long-time fan and collector, I love this set.  It is throwback without being stupid about it.  It's got a great mix of past heroes and today's stars, along with a few names I'm not familiar with at all.  For me, that's a perfect blend.  I'm glad to know these guys will find welcome homes after the season!

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Each day of the regular baseball season, I am busting open a pack of baseball cards.  These are packs that I have laying around and/or that I have purchased recently on a whim.  I list the cards in the pack and scan in some of them.  I shoot for 9 cards, but sometimes I may scan more, other times fewer.  It all depends on how things hit me in that particular pack.  Oh yes, there will be duplication.  I have a TON of packs from certain brands/years.  I will, however, try to mix things up throughout the season.

For those keeping score, I know there are not actually 182 GAMEDAYS in the 2012 season.  I am counting ALL the days between Opening Day and the last day of the regular season.  Frankly, it's easier that way.  Thanks for playing along.

Also, you are welcome to claim teams/players (Max 3 total). Rules are at the following:
http://www.tribecards.net/2012/04/slight-rain-delay-in-182-packs-of.html
http://www.tribecards.net/2012/04/182-packs-of-baseball-rules-update.html