1977 Topps Mark Fidrych Rookie Card - Tiger Stadium Painting

This 1977 Topps Mark Fidrych rookie card has a surprise on the back...an original Lost Ballpark painting of Tiger Stadium from artist Michael Koser. This item is 1 of 1. If you look closely you will see Mark's name faintly visible in the sky over a green trimmed Tiger Stadium. The artist chose this color for the painting because this is what the ballpark looked like during Fidrych's incredible rookie year. Speaking of which...

It's not an exaggeration to say that in 1976 Mark Fidrych was the biggest story in the world of sports. Fidrych, one of the most colorful characters in baseball history, used to groom the mound with his hands before innings and would routinely talk to the ball telling it where he wanted it to go. His ability was as profound as his fun loving personality. As a 21 year old rookie "the Bird" won 19 games for the Detroit Tigers and went on to win Rookie of the Year.

His life was cut tragically short in a farm accident in 2009.

This story (from the book "The Bird") best sums up Fidrych. Years after he had retired from baseball, he was back in his hometown when someone approached him and said, "I know you from somewhere. Your face is familiar." "Well", Mark said, "I used to work at the gas station after high school."

Unassuming, humble, sweet spirit. That was Mark Fidrych. As unforgettable as the legendary ballpark he played in.

Baseball card is ungraded.